Indian Affair @ Pakeeza Restaurant, Ipoh

How often is it that you heard of someone, from Chinese origin, craves for Indian food? Seldom? Yeah, especially in Ipoh, when the dearth of authentic Indian food limits your picks to either the mamak stalls, or stalls serving south indian curry rice only.

A taste ABOVE the rest ... believe THAT ...

Pakeeza has been around since, well, forever. Yup, I was here when I was still an immature kid, tagging along, not knowing what's in store and what's the hype was about this Indian restaurant serving North Indian cuisine in town. (I think the term Greentown has not even existed at that moment)

Mango Lassi RM4.50

The lassi tasted smooth, and creamy enough, with refreshing mango flavour, but not to the point where you feel like drinking a cordial drink aka too thick mango taste.

The arch/mirror welcoming the patrons. But kind of IN the way, does it not?

Papadam (Indian crackers) RM0.70

Were served papadams as appetizers, though we initially thought they were complimentary. =P But 4 pieces of huge papadams for a mere 70 cents sound good enough, no?

Garlic Naan (RM3.90)

Kashmiri Naan (RM3.90)

Their naan breads are their specialty, providing the patrons with roughly 8 choices. Soft, fluffy, and full of flavour, the bread goes well with their curries, and other side dishes. Eaten on its own, they're delicious as well. Cut into 4 large pieces, resembling pizza albeit Indian style, highly recommended as an alternative for your carbo cravings.

Mutton Kofta (RM7.50)

Mutton kofta is spiced mutton meatballs with saffron sauce, served with chunks of potatoes swimming the aromatic, and flavourful gravy, akin to curry. Though only 2 pieces of meatballs were served, they were marinated well, and no traces of veins/unsavoury bits were detected.

Tandoori Chicken (RM7.00)

Of course, naan when paired with tandoori chicken, are a match made in heaven. The chicken meat was succelent, meaty, and tasted delicious, from the spices used and the way the chicken was grilled. Though would appreciate it if the dish was served with more condiments and gravies.

Palak Paneer (RM5.50)

The highlight of the night was no doubt, the palak paneer, a dish of mashed spinach with homemade cottage cheese. Still remember the taste vividly from years ago, I knew I had to order it for old times' sake. Very rich, creamy, required no chewing at all. Quite filling, don't look down on the small serving.

Location : 15-17, Jln Dato Seri Ahmad Said (Green Lane), 30450 Ipoh. Specifically, it is situated in Greenhill area, opposite Regal's Lodge hotel on the other side of the road. Tel : 05-2414243, 05-2530407.