Shahi Pakwaan

Shahi Pakwaan is widely regarded as the standout Indian restaurant in East Finchley, situated at 25 Aylmer Parade and specialising in the royal cuisine of Hyderabad in south-central India. Hardens — which has reviewed it over several years — describes it as offering "top-class Hyderabadi cooking" and consistently rates it one of the best options for a curry in this part of north London, calling it a "local gem" with "high-quality" cooking that "attracts regulars from beyond its East Finchley neighbourhood." TripAdvisor reviewers have placed it at number one for Indian food in N2.

The menu showcases the rich, aromatic flavours of Hyderabadi cooking: karare prawns cooked tempura-style with crispy lightness, tandoori salmon, Peshwari naan baked fresh from the tandoor, chicken 65, seekh kebabs, and the celebrated Hyderabadi biryani slow-cooked with aromatic basmati rice and freshly ground spices. Fish specialities include whole sea bass and tilapia charcoal-grilled with Indian spices. Duck breast marinated overnight in herbs and spices is a house favourite. Vegetarian options available. Available for delivery via Deliveroo and for collection. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with an afternoon break.