You only live once but if you do it right, once is enough

When it comes to experiencing the true essence of Punjabi cuisine, Dhaba – Estd 1986 Delhi in Indiranagar, Bengaluru stands out as a beacon of authentic flavors and vibrant ambiance. Our recent visit to this popular North Indian Punjabi dhaba was nothing short of a gastronomic adventure.

The Ambiance: A Journey Back in Time

From the moment you step into Dhaba – Estd 1986 Delhi, you’re transported to a rustic Punjabi highway dhaba. The walls are adorned with colorful posters and décor that scream Punjabi culture. Think old Bollywood movie stars, vibrant stamps, pictures of Indian trucks with their trademark “Horn OK Please” signs, and quirky posters that bring a smile to your face. The overall ambiance is a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary comfort, making it an ideal place to relish hearty Punjabi fare. Dhaba – Estd 1986 Delhi, as the name suggests, traces its origins back to the bustling streets of Delhi in 1986.

For Drinks I opted for the traditional lassi, a creamy and refreshing yogurt-based drink that is a staple in any dhaba experience. Everyone else preferred the fresh lime soda to keep it light for the meal ahead.

The Feast: A Symphony of Flavors

We began our feast with the Mutton Galouti Kabab, a dish that left us in awe. These melt-in-your-mouth kebabs are made from finely minced mutton, marinated with a blend of aromatic spices, and cooked to perfection. The presentation was impeccable, and the kebabs were gone in no time, a testament to their deliciousness.

Next, we tried the Mushroom Galouti, a vegetarian counterpart that, while not as indulgent as the mutton version, was well-prepared and a good option for vegetarians. The mushrooms were finely minced and spiced, offering a delicate and enjoyable flavor.

For starters, we also had the Kala Sha Kala Kukkad, a unique take on chicken tikka. This dish is marinated in a dark, almost blackened spice mix that gives it a distinctive flavor. The origin of this dish lies in the traditional Punjabi kitchens where blackened spices are used to impart a smoky, robust flavor to the meat.

Moving on to the main course, we ordered the Tiffin Chicken. This delightful dish is served in a traditional tiffin box, featuring chicken tikka tossed with onions, capsicum, and a light tomato gravy. Accompanied by an ajwain paratha, it was a flavorful and satisfying dish that paired well with naan, roti, or rice.

Another highlight was their signature mutton dish, Balti Meat. Served in a small bucket-shaped dish, this classic mutton curry did not disappoint. The meat was tender, the pieces were generous, and the curry was rich and flavorful. I tried it with the Dhabe di Roti, a soft, pita-like bread that was heavy yet perfect for soaking up the delicious curry.

We also indulged in a Chicken Biryani and Jeera Rice, though these additions proved to be an overkill. We ended up with food bags to carry home, ensuring a delicious lunch for the next day.

To round off our meal, we ended with a Paan, a sweet and refreshing finisher that capped off a perfect Indian dhaba meal.

The Verdict: A Memorable Experience

The flavors at Dhaba – Estd 1986 Delhi were fantastic. While the menu is slightly overpriced, the quality of food more than justifies it. Their tandoor and main courses are certainly above par compared to other similar-sized dhaba chains, and we had an excellent dining experience. Dhaba – Estd 1986 Delhi in Indiranagar offers an authentic Punjabi dining experience that is hard to beat. From the ambiance to the food, everything is meticulously crafted to provide a memorable culinary journey. If you’re in Bengaluru and craving some hearty Punjabi fare, this dhaba should be at the top of your list.