Finding authentic and delicious Pakistani food can be a culinary adventure, especially outside major metropolitan areas. But Ithaca, New York, surprisingly offers a vibrant Pakistani food scene, catering to both students and locals alike. This guide dives into the best 10 Pakistani restaurants in Ithaca, highlighting their specialties, ambiance, and what makes them stand out. Whether you crave rich curries, flavorful biryanis, or succulent kebabs, Ithaca has something to satisfy your taste buds.
Top Pakistani Restaurants in Ithaca: A Detailed Look
This list isn't ranked, as each restaurant offers a unique experience and caters to different preferences. Instead, we present them alphabetically to ensure fair representation.
1. Aromas of Pakistan
- Specialties: Known for their flavorful chicken karahi and perfectly cooked naan. They also offer a range of vegetarian options, including delicious daal makhani.
- Ambiance: Casual and family-friendly, perfect for a relaxed meal.
- What Makes it Stand Out: Consistently high quality, generous portions, and friendly service.
2. Biryani Paradise
- Specialties: As the name suggests, their biryanis are the stars of the show. They offer various types, including chicken, lamb, and vegetable biryanis. Their flavorful rice and perfectly spiced meat make them a must-try.
- Ambiance: A bit more upscale than some other options, with a modern and clean atmosphere.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The quality of the biryani rice and the variety of biryani options available.
3. The Curry Corner
- Specialties: The Curry Corner offers a wide range of curries, from mild to very spicy, allowing you to customize your spice level. Their saag paneer and chana masala are popular choices.
- Ambiance: A casual, quick-service restaurant ideal for grabbing a quick and delicious meal.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The extensive menu with a variety of spice levels to cater to different palates.
4. Desi Delights
- Specialties: Specializes in classic Pakistani street food, offering a fun and casual dining experience. Their samosas and pakoras are particularly well-regarded.
- Ambiance: Lively and informal, perfect for a quick and tasty bite.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The authentic street food experience and the flavorful, crispy snacks.
5. Flavors of Home
- Specialties: Focuses on home-style Pakistani cooking. Their nihari and haleem are exceptionally flavorful and tender. Expect a comforting and familiar taste.
- Ambiance: Warm and welcoming, with a family-oriented atmosphere.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The authentic home-style cooking and the comforting, flavorful dishes.
6. Kabab & Curry House
- Specialties: A great option for those craving delicious kebabs. Their seekh kebabs and chicken tikka are cooked to perfection. They also offer a wide selection of curries.
- Ambiance: Modern and clean with a focus on presentation.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The high quality of their kebabs and the diverse menu.
7. Masala Kitchen
- Specialties: Known for their generous portions and delicious vegetarian options. Their vegetable curries are flavorful and well-balanced.
- Ambiance: Casual and relaxed, ideal for a casual meal with friends or family.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The excellent vegetarian options and the generous portions.
8. Nawab's Kitchen
- Specialties: A good option for exploring a range of Pakistani dishes. Their palak paneer and butter chicken are consistently good choices.
- Ambiance: A pleasant and comfortable setting, suitable for both casual and more formal meals.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The wide variety of dishes offered and the generally good quality of food.
9. Spice Route
- Specialties: Their focus is on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their lamb dishes, especially their roghan josh, are often highlighted as exceptional.
- Ambiance: A cozy and intimate setting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a quiet meal with friends.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The emphasis on fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes.
10. Tandoor Oven
- Specialties: Known for their tandoori dishes, cooked in a traditional tandoor oven. Their chicken tandoori and naan are popular choices.
- Ambiance: Lively and casual, with a bustling atmosphere.
- What Makes it Stand Out: The authentic tandoor cooking method and the flavorful, smoky dishes.
This list provides a starting point for your Pakistani food journey in Ithaca. Remember to check each restaurant's hours and menus online before your visit, as availability and offerings can change. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
