For years, the hunt has been on for the best Indian restaurant in Jeddah, and it has confused many food experts. Is it in the crowded districts and narrow streets of old markets, tucked away in a residential neighborhood all on its own, or is it a hole-in-the-wall you grew up near to? But at the end of Sary street in Jeddah a new era has begun, thanks to a boy from Delhi. It's the era of Chef Zaheer Khan, who was recently brought in by Diyarkom Hospitality Group to spearhead their new venture, Punjab Grill, serving authentic Punjabi cuisine. The Indian food scene in Jeddah is not only haphazard and tricky; most times it is not even Indian. Pakistani restaurants that have been in the game for decades are still referred to as ‘ that Indian place.' This is both a blessing and a curse, since Pakistani food in Jeddah is on a completely higher plane. But the Punjab region is home to authentic tandoori food. It is believed that the concept of ‘tandoor' originated in Persia and was brought to India by Arabs. Punjab of course refers to the parts of India and Pakistan that was once a whole. Now Punjabi food is arguably India's most loved cuisine in the eyes of the world. Punjabi cuisine is known for its rich, buttery flavors, along with the extensive vegetarian and meat dishes: not for the faint of heart. At Punjab Grill in Jeddah, the extensive menu does justice to the cuisine it represents. Go with the butter chicken, dal makhani and any kebab to play it safe, but delicious. You cannot go wrong with any kebab there. Butter naan is the required partner in crime, and the mutton biryani will leave you breathless. The drinks need some work, so the best bet would be to stick with sparkling water to wash it all down. The Chef here has undergone some heavy-duty training with master chefs in India, and it shows in the flavors and the plating style he employs. The offering of beetroot kebab as a starter also displays his inventiveness. The final verdict is a solid three out of five stars; Punjab Grill has made a claim to be the bearer of the title for one of the best Indian food joints in Jeddah. Will others up their offerings?
