My friends have been dedicated patrons of Kashmirana, a Kashmiri restaurant nestled in Rodeo Drive that’s gained a steady following in its five years. They’ve shared their experiences numerous times, so I was eager to see what the buzz was about on my first visit.
Kashmirana has a cozy vibe with a mix of comfortable table seating and a few low tables for those looking to linger. My wife aptly described the interiors as reminiscent of a houseboat’s warmth and charm.
We found ourselves indulging in a variety of dishes, given her vegetarian preference. In the non-vegetarian starters, the Tabakmaaz and mutton seekh kebabs were both outstanding. The Tabakmaaz had that perfect crispiness, yielding to the fatty richness inside, while the mutton seekh had a delicate, hollow center that retained a satisfying bite—some of the juiciest I’ve had in Gurgaon. My wife, on the other hand, enjoyed the lotus root fritters (nadru chips), cut into long, crispy strips and coated with a flavorful, addictive spice blend.
In the mains, the rista and goshtaba were delightful, with the same signature spongy meatballs but distinct gravies that made each dish memorable. I prefer bigger balls but these tasted as good. On the vegetarian side, the haaq, rajma, and nadru yakhani shone brightly, leaving us no choice but to pack up the leftovers—vegetarian for us and non-vegetarian for my friends. And if I say we loved the non-veg, it’s only fair to note the vegetarian options were no less satisfying.
Traditional brassware enhanced the authenticity of the experience, and the kehwa added an extra layer of warmth, perfect for the season. Though the phirni was good, I’ve had more refined versions. However, the dry fruit-laden shufta, cooked in desi ghee, was a decadent finale.
Kashmirana’s portions are ample, the pricing fair, and the food impressive, especially as the restaurant filled with fellow Kashmiris as we dined—a clear testament to its authenticity and popularity among those who truly know this cuisine.
Ratings (Out of 5)
Food: 4.0 | Ambience: 3.75 | Service: 4.0 | Overall: 4.0
Address: Kashmirana, 1st Floor, Rodeo Drive, Sector 49, Gurgaon | Phone: 85953 99049
