The Specialist

It won’t be too far-fetched to say that when it comes to popularity of food festivals in the city,after Awadhi and the occasional sizzler line-up,Kashmiri cuisine is the next choice. Despite the fact that the cuisine finds favour with the Punjabi palate with its robust curries and mutton specialities,surprisingly there isn’t a standalone fine-dining restaurant in the city dishing treats from the Valley. Although foodies and those who have been in Chandigarh for more than a decade will,of course,remember KC Mezbaan that was housed in Sector 17 before that part of the sector went in for a makeover. That was many years ago.

So it was a pleasant surprise to be told of a little counter housed in the food court of City Emproium Mall that had Kashmiri cuisine on its menu. The City Emporium mall,as most of us are aware,isn’t as populated as its neighbour Elante,and the traffic is lean. We realised that on a weekend evening as the parking came so easy. Tucked away on the top floor in the main food court area is Waza – The Kashmiri Chef’s Way. And yes,it was a true delight to read the likes of Tabak Maaz,Nadru Chorma,Gushtaba,Kashmiri Khatte Baingan,Haak Saag and other quintessentials on the menu. They even offer to make Tandoori Raan on prior notice. Giving in to the food court format of the menu,you have many combos as well to choose from.

Our pick first was a platter of Mutton Kanti Kebab. Though we were apprehensive of the freshness of the ingredients given the low diner volumes on a weekend,all that was laid to rest when we dug into our meal. The kebabs were a cracker. Juicy though a bit spicy,it helped satiate our Kashmiri food cravings instantly. Bouyed by the first dish,we then chose to sample Mutton Rishte (sic) along with laccha parantha. The meat ball curry was flavoursome and hinted of the chef in the kitchen having added spices from home. The Chicken Yakhni was runny just as it’s meant to be and tasted fairly good. While it’s delightful to have a place that offers Kashmiri cuisine at all times,the dishes have a bit of a fast food feel to them. Given it’s a food court setting,we aren’t deducting any points.

Meal for two: Rs 600 (including taxes)

Location: 143 A,City Emporium Mall,

Industrial Area – 1,Chandigarh