Have you heard the story about the Shalimar's of the Capital Region? About how it's a chain, and not a chain? But it's still a family thing, although not immediate family. Both Steve Barnes and Bill Dowd have done the Shalimar breakdown, so there's really not much for me to comment on it... except there is no mention of the Shalimar in Troy and where it factors into all of this.
The Latham Shalimar is in the space that was once occupied by Afghan Grill, which from what I hear was sold. Shame, since I really wanted to try it out. I know there's at least two other Indian restaurants in Latham, but none that I can think of on that stretch of Rt. 7.
The interior seems a little cramped with all the tables, but somewhat sparse with the decorations. There are pictures that line one of the walls, and some decorative wall hangings, and all those lights! But still... it felt sparse.
I started with the Mulligatawny soup - made with lentils, tomato, lemon and spices. It was served with a lemon slice and cilantro, which is the first time that has ever happened. I crushed the lemon and it... I guess lightened the flavor? Lemoned the flavor? I'm not finding the right way to describe it, but it was good.
Lamb Palak - lamb meat cooked with spinach. I normally order Chicken Palak, but M pushed the lamb, claiming it would be more authentic that way. The meat was tender and the spinach was creamy. It's good with the rice that accompanies it, but even better with naan. Imagine they made burrito-like things with naan and any type of palak? Or even better... what if there were samosas filled with lamb palak? That would be an amazing appetizer!
Oh those tangents! I liked it. A little of it totally filled me up, but can you really complain about leftovers?
M went with the Mattar Paneer - green peas cooked with homemade cheese. In typical fashion, he inhaled his meal... I didn't get a chance to sneak a bite! It seems that this dish is commonly found on the lunch buffet menu, which is why he went with it. M also said something about it being the only non-meat item so... something something something.
If you are interested, they have a daily lunch buffet from 11:30 - 3:00. The sign along the road had it priced at $6.99, but I don't know if it's more on the weekends.
Our meal, which consisted of soup, two entrées, one order of naan, and one soda (with free refills) came out to 33 dollars, tax and tip included.
Shalimar
952 Troy Schenectady Road
Latham, NY 12110
(518) 389-2500
M-Th: 11:30 - 10:00
F: 11:30 - 11:00
S: 12:00 - 11:00
Su: 12:00 - 10:00
1 comment:
The Troy one is rogue! Actually, I think the family that kind of owns the 'chains' used to own it, but then sold it to the current owners, and then it became its own standing Shalimar. Confusing, to say the least.
Always sad to hear that a place is sold. Afghan Grill was ok, but didn't ever seem that busy.
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