Pakistani Restaurants of Ilford: A Complete Guide
Pakistani Restaurants of Ilford: A Complete Guide
Located in East London, Ilford has become a hot spot for authentic South Asian cuisine. The area is home to a substantial Pakistani community, and with it, more representation of that culture's food than fine dining, including restaurants that offer dishes brimming with rich spices, robust flavors, and nostalgic feelings of home in Pakistan. Families, students, and tourists find their way to Ilford's Pakistani restaurants to enjoy biryani, kebabs, curries, and traditional sweets to remind them of home or share in the feelings of warmth and hospitality.
Why Ilford for Pakistani Food
Ilford is well-known for many types of Pakistani restaurants. The area has food options for any budget, from street food stalls to receptions in ultra-nice banquet halls. Most of these restaurants serve halal food, which adds to their popularity within the community.
The appeal of these restaurants arises from three dominant factors:
- The authentic taste that reminds people of home.
- The family- and student-friendly costs.
- The friendly service that makes guests feel welcome.
Top Pakistani Restaurants in Ilford
Shinwari
Shinwari offers some of the best karahis and traditional naan; the chefs stew the meat in rich tomato-based gravies over a slow flame, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Families tend to dine at Shinwari which emphasizes a more homestyle dining experience.
Wah Bey
Wah Bey is a modern take on Pakistani dining. Their mixed grill platters and kebabs, as well as curries for sharing, attract people who want to share their meals together. Wah Bey serves a traditional menu in a modern setting.
Watan
Watan has a combination of Pakistani and Afghan dishes available. Customers are able to order biryani, kebabs, and various hearty curries at reasonable prices. It's a common destination for families to come together for casual dining or even for celebrating special occasions.
Royal Nawaab
Royal Nawaab also operates as a grand banquet-style restaurant. It serves Pakistani and Indian cuisine and the meal is a buffet. People choose Royal Nawaab for weddings or large occasions, and generally for larger family meals. The array of dishes to choose from is very appealing for groups.
Popular Dishes in Ilford’s Pakistani Restaurants
- Biryani
Restaurants in Ilford serve up biryani with fragrant rice, soft meat and layers of spices. It continues to be one of the most frequently ordered dishes.
- Karahi
Chicken and lamb karahi comes to the table sizzling hot. Restaurants prepare it with tomatoes, green chilies, and fresh coriander. Karahi is a must eat in restaurants like Shinwari.
- Nihari
Nihari is a slow-cooked beef or lamb stew that a lot of restaurants make available on weekends. The slow cook and spicy flavor makes it a dish you won't easily forget.
- Kebabs and Grills
Seekh kebabs and mixed grills are often common attractions for families and large groups of students alike. They arrive from the kitchen juicy, smoky, and perfectly spiced.
- Desserts & drinks - Come finish up with gulab jamun or jalebi or sweet lassi and traditional chai, as many of the local cafes and restaurants are known for homemade sweets.
Tips for Enjoying Halal Pakistani Food in Ilford
Here are some tips for visiting Pakistani Restaurants in Ilford
- If you want to avoid long waits, go on a weekday.
- Ordering family platters allows for a greater selection.
- Ask the server about the specials that day, such as nihari or haleem.
- Finish the meal with chai or a dessert.
- If you're planning to go to Royal Nawaab, make a reservation!
Prices, service, and halal notes
The majority of the Pakistani restaurants in Ilford serve halal. Many also have family-style service, and affordable pricing. A full meal will likely be mid-range, shared plates will be less expensive per person- example: 3 or 4 people sharing, and ordering a bunch of plates to eat family style and you may be paying $25-30 for the entire table. However, if you go to banquet halls, places with large buffets, or Royal Nawaab, expect to pay more. It's always best to check the restaurant's site or listing and menus for updates on prices and offerings.
How to select the right place
- Read reviews from the latest customers. Use TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google reviews to find the most relevant comments.
- Inquire about peak times. Sundays and right after the prayer can see high volume, but check in advance for big groups.
- Stick to specials. A lot of family places will have special dishes that they make on certain days and rotate to do them every day (like nihari on Sunday).
- Halal check. Most places in Ilford are always halal, but check it also and make sure it satisfies your level of halal eating.
Final suggestions and where to start
The recommended start is at Shinwari if you want an homestyle experience with karahi and naan. Then Wah Bey for grill platters with a modern touch. If you are sitting down for lunch with the family and want the same style biryani, I would check out Watan. Plan for a visit to Royal Nawab for a large event or their buffet night too. The High Road of Ilford and the surrounding areas have small /independent gems and food stalls that you can find and check out. Just ensure you have checked with your local listings to open hours before you go!