(eatatshalimar.com) – University District
How I heard of this place: Through the Entertainment Book. Having seen it in the Entertainment Book and knowing that it was conveniently located for dinner get-togethers with friends studying at the University of Washington, I have found myself here a couple of times in the past few years.
Type of cuisine: Indian, Pakistani and Southeast Asian. The restaurant provides “unforgettable flavors that transport you to the heart of the Indian culture.”
Ambiance: An elegant space in an unassuming place. The restaurant is calm and dimly lit, with large windows at the front, facing University Way (“The Ave”). A fountain along wall hosts small inserts with candles lighting the space. Exposed brick and a floor-to-ceiling photograph of trees sets the tone for a warm and very earthy establishment. Dark wooden partitions separate seating areas, where small parties can dine privately in booths. Yellow-toned lamps with black ornamentation and ornate wall hangings decorate and offer simple, yet fancy lighting on the pale yellow walls.
What I ordered: Having four diners, none of whom can turn down butter chicken ($13.95) we had two orders at our table; one with not even one star (spiciness factor) and the second with four stars. The butter chicken was made with tender boneless breast of chicken baked in the Shalimar tandoor oven and simmered in a creamy five spice butter sauce. We had one order of tandoori chicken ($9.95), marinated chicken slowly baked in a tandoor oven until the flavors reach the bone, served on a sizzling bed of grilled, julienned onions, diced green bell peppers and diced tomatoes. Our fourth dish was for a chicken tikka masala ($13.95), a traditional tandoori style curry made with onions, tomatoes and a variety of herbs and spices simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. Each dish came served with a large helping (approximately two cups) of white, basmati rice, topped with six to eight green peas.
What I loved: My favorite dish of the evening was the chicken tikka masala, creamy and tart, with juicy, tender chicken.
Why I loved it: The decor and attention to detail in the space really struck me on this, my second or third visit to Shalimar. The food was good, and easily adjusted to individual spiciness levels (by adding more cream to the curries)! No one rushed us out, even after all of the food on our plates was gone.
Cost: Low to average ($8-$12 per family-style dinner entree)