Punjab Grill, a well-established name in North Indian and Punjabi cuisine, has been delighting diners for nearly two decades with its rich, flavorful dishes. Part of an international chain, its Abu Dhabi branch recently moved to a refreshed location near the Ritz-Carlton, offering a stylish yet relaxed dining experience. With indoor and outdoor seating options—including views of the Grand Canal—the restaurant blends traditional flavors with modern presentation in an upscale but comfortable setting.

Key highlights:
- Contemporary Indian restaurant specializing in North West Frontier cuisine
- Located in the Ritz-Carlton with outdoor dining overlooking the Grand Canal
- 19+ years of serving royal dining experiences with authentic flavors

PROFILE

Punjab Grill brings the rich food traditions of Punjab to Abu Dhabi. The restaurant has been around for over 19 years. It's part of a chain with locations in India, Singapore,Bangkok, and Washington D.C. Punjab Grill focuses on North Indian and Punjabi cuisine. The food here has a long tradition of being rich, buttery,and uniquely flavored. Their chefs give classic dishes modern twists in both taste and looks.

AMBIENCE

The restaurant recently moved to a new location closer to the main Ritz-Carlton hotel. Its new space feels airy and updated. The interior design caters to different types of diners and occasions. There are open and private dining areas, plus lounge and bar seating. You can eat outdoors on their piazza overlooking the Grand Canal. It's a great spot to enjoy Abu Dhabi's weather. The place feels fancy but not too stuffy. Perfect for a special dinner or business lunch.

MUST-TRY

The gun powder shrimps are a standout starter that many customers rave about. They pack a flavorful punch. Kashmiri lamb chops come in a generous portion and are perfectly cooked and seasoned. They're served with daikon chutney and rogan jus. The butter chicken is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. The chef can make it mild if requested. Mangalore chicken is considered almost a signature dish for the restaurant. It has its own unique flavor profile.

FOOD

The menu features authentic North West Frontier cuisine served with royal generosity. Everything is made with genuine flavors from across the Indian subcontinent. Starters like the burrata with Punjabi aubergine bharta show the restaurant's creative approach. They combine unexpected ingredients in delicious ways. The tandoori dishes come from an open kitchen where you can watch the master chefs at work. The prawns and lamb are especially good. For vegetarians, there are great options like paneer roylade, dal makhni, and vegetable seekh kabab. The spinach chaat comes highly recommended. The biryani has mixed reviews, with some finding it a bit sweet. But most dishes show careful attention to spicing and flavor development. Desserts include a chocolate cake that gets good reviews. The restaurant also offers palate cleansers between courses.

SERVICE

Staff members like Afroz, Sandeep,and Pranali receive frequent praise in reviews. They provide personalized service that enhances the dining experience. The waiters are knowledgeable about the menu and can make good recommendations. They're attentive without being intrusive. The restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice. This includes nut allergies and requests for milder spicing. Chef Sandeep Ail and his team are committed to a zero food-waste policy. They create items like orange chutney from leftover orange peels.

PRICING

Punjab Grill falls into the $$ - $$$ price range. It's positioned as a fine dining experience. A five-course chef's table experience is available for Dhs350 per person. This is a good option for special occasions. There's also an express weekday business lunch option for those looking for a quicker, potentially more affordable meal. The portions are generous for the price, especially the lamb chops. You get good value for a high-end Indian restaurant.

SUMMARY

Punjab Grill offers a modern take on traditional Punjabi cuisine in an upscale setting. The food quality is consistently excellent. The restaurant balances authenticity with innovation, creating dishes that respect tradition while introducing creative elements. Their spicing is generally more subtle than typical Indian restaurants. With its Grand Canal views, attentive service, and high-quality food, Punjab Grill ranks among the best Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. It's worth visiting for a special meal or to impress guests. The restaurant has earned its reputation through careful attention to detail in both food and service. It's no wonder they've been successful for nearly two decades.

FAQs

Is Punjab Grill suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Punjab Grill offers many vegetarian options, including paneer dishes, dal makhni, vegetable seekh kabab, and various chaats. The staff is happy to recommend vegetarian items from their menu.

Does Punjab Grill serve alcohol?
Yes, Punjab Grill has a full bar and serves alcohol. They offer a selection of unique signature beverages to complement your meal.

Do I need to make a reservation at Punjab Grill?
Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. You can reserve a table through their website or by calling them directly at +971-50-668-3054.