Review: Lahore by iKitchen (Banani, Dhaka)
Ambiance & Setting
Nestled atop the Caldwell Centre in Banani, this rooftop gem exudes a cozy, elegant charm. Its interior features emerald-green and white furnishings, Mughal-style door motifs, and a mini fountain—creating a serene and refined atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds another layer of appeal, with charcoal-smoke hints elevating the experience. (Dhaka Tribune, Wanderlog)
Service
Staff are consistently described as attentive and courteous. Multiple diners have noted that service enhances the overall experience. (Tripadvisor) One reviewer even rated service a perfect 10/10. (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor)
Food Experience
Expect authentic Lahori flavors with standout dishes:
Mutton Nihari: Rich, hearty, tender, but a tad salty for some palates. (Dhaka Tribune, Tripadvisor)
Chana Masala with Puri: Spicy, nutty, and creamy—paired perfectly with fluffy puris. (Dhaka Tribune)
Nawabi Platter: A medley of kebabs (chicken tikka, reshmi, malai, boti, beef bihari, seekh, mutton gula) with aromatic rice; the king prawn was a particular highlight. (Dhaka Tribune)
Halwa Puri: A luxurious take on the classic—rich in ghee and almonds, distinctly more indulgent than regional variants. (Dhaka Tribune)
Kebabs & Biryani: Seekh, Chicken Bihari, Beef Afghani Tikka and biryani—flavorful, tender, and well-spiced. (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor)
Lunch Combos (“Lunch Legends”): Affordable weekday specials featuring kebabs paired with rumali roti, raita, and mint chutney; all grilled to juicy perfection. (YouTube)
Pros
Flavor-packed, authentic Lahori dishes with skilled seasoning. (Wanderlog, Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor)
Cozy, atmospheric space, elevated by elegant décor and thoughtful touches like indoor fountains. (Wanderlog, Dhaka Tribune)
Exceptional service that consistently earns praise. (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor)
Refined lunchtime deals, offering great value during weekdays. (YouTube)
Cons
Pricing can feel steep—several customers noted portions may not always match the price. (Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor, Tripadvisor)
Can get noisy during busy hours, impacting the otherwise pleasant ambiance. (Tripadvisor)
Parking limitations—some diners faced issues finding convenient spots. (Tripadvisor)
Verdict
Lahore by iKitchen offers an immersive Lahori culinary journey in the heart of Dhaka. It shines with bold flavors, refined presentation, and attentive service—all wrapped in a stylish rooftop setting. If you're after authentic Pakistani cuisine and don’t mind paying a bit more, it’s well worth a visit. The weekday Lunch Legends deal is a smart pick for diners seeking both quality and value.
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