Karim's, Noida

Karim's at Delhi is undoubtedly one of the more famous eateries in Delhi and for that matter, the rest of India. My friends, and cousins in the capital now often look down on the place and claim, rightfully I am sure that there are other far better places. But then, Karim's is the stuff of legend, and for us Non - Delhi-ites, if we are in the capital and there is a choice of choosing the restaurant to have Mughlai food in, it is usually Karim's that is the number one choice.

Part of the reason for the allure of Karim's is its fame and longevity, the original one beside the Jama Masjid has been around since 1913. They also claim to have an interesting story line with the ancestors of Haji Karimuddin (who established the place in 1913) apparently having cooked and served food in the kitchens of Babur himself.

This makes for great narrative and provides an added flavour to the delightful food that is served in front of you. Karim's is famed for its Biriyani, which although tasty is a topic for much controversy and each foodie in India has their own favourite version. Mine, is Shiraz, Kolkata but then that is a never ending conversation. My favorite meal at Karim's and the one that I had when last at Karim's Noida is Mutton Barra Kebab, Kali Dal and Rumali Roti.

The decor in Karim's Noida is reasonably up market, there was actually a painting by MF Hussain to welcome us and it has none of the rustic feel that you experience at the Jama Masjid branch. The service however was the same as what you get at the original joint.

Thankfully the food was outstanding as it always is. The Mutton Barra kebab is basically the most basic of mutton kebab offerings but is in my mind one of the tastiest of mutton Kebabs, it is not as fine as a Galouti or Kakori and is less on the marination. The meat is more chunky and can be bit into. While the other kebabs are definitely finer, even more tasty, the Barra Kebab is texturally the heartiest and most satisfying for a non vegetarian lover still having decently Ok teeth. The taste is needless to say fantastic.

The kali daal at Karims while not particularly outstanding in isolation, is perhaps made for being the perfect accompaniment to the mutton. Light almost to the point of being bland, the kali daal with the mutton barra and the soft rumali roti, transports the customer to cullinary heaven. The Karim's at Noida does take away the ambience but does deliver on the food!

A meal for two at Karims will cost you approximately Rs 400/- without drinks.

How to get there: Karim's is at Sector 18 in Noida, in the main market. It is impossible to miss.