Dhaba – A Punjabi Theme Restaurant, Rajouri Garden, Delhi

Menu was made out of wood in shape of a hand fan. I was rather amused to see the menu for ‘A Punjabi Theme’ restaurant, having Chinese dishes listed in it. We ordered Chicken Seekh Kebab (Rs.225), Boneless Butter Chicken (Rs.325) along with breads. Among breads, we also ordered Sarewan Ki Roti (Rs.45) which is a ‘Dhaba’ specialty, made with onion stuffing in Red Chili based spices.

Our Kebabs arrived after 20 minutes and looked nicely done. The Kebabs seemed to have been heated a tad longer as they tasted rather dry. We noticed big garlic chunks in them, which overpowered other spices. Our Kebabs were served with diced vegetables in a strange concoction of mayonnaise and ketchup, which was not palatable. We ordered for lemon pieces and raw onions rings, which complimented kebabs well.

We wanted boneless pieces in our Butter Chicken but ‘Dhaba’ seem to serve it with only shredded pieces of chicken. We reluctantly agreed to their version when advised that it will take them longer to prepare to our specification. Soon, our Butter Chicken arrived and it smelled and looked inviting. Our taste buds were soaked in the rich gravy made from tomato, onion, curd and cream. The spices used in it stood out with aromas and distinctly tasting cardamom, ginger, garlic, coriander and almonds made the dish really delicious. The shredded chicken pieces melted in our mouth. The spicy Sarewan Ki Roti complimented the butter chicken extremely well.

We were thoroughly enjoying out meal till I felt a searing pain in my teeth. A staple pin somehow found it’s way in to my mouth. I called the manager and pointed to the twisted piece of metal in my hand. He tendered a brief apology and took my plate away. I was offered a lame explanation as to how a pin might have gotten mixed with dough for roti, as it is stored closer to the packing area in the kitchen! That, was the end of my meal. They offered 10% discount on the bill, which I did not bother to discuss.

The waiting staff did not bother to change our plates after our starter were finished. Nor did anyone cared to serve our food. We did not notice any alacrity on reporting a foreign body in food. ‘Dhaba’ experience while offering promise ended on a very painful note. I only hope I am the last one to have gone through such an ordeal. The restaurant management will gain by improving service standard and cleanliness in the kitchen.

Rating :
Ambience – 3/5
Food – 2/5
Service – 1.5/5

Meal for Two : Rs.800 / Credit Card : Yes
Address : #A5, Vishal Enclave, Rajouri Garden, Delhi – 110027
Phone : 011-25460101, 25420302, 25430303