Shahi Maharani

Tucked away in a nondescript corner on the third floor of Raffles City, this well-established restaurant has a loyal following for its fine rendition of North Indian dishes. The excellent pani puri appetiser celebrates Indian street food, with small crispy orbs filled with spiced potato and accompanied by tamarind- and mint-flavoured water; the puris here are smartly sized, small enough to fit in the mouth effortlessly in one go. Galouti kebabs are super-soft minced lamb patties—they crumble when cut—and are free from any gamey taste. The sabzi sizzler koftas are resplendent with vegetables, doused in a rich sauce. Staff are extremely attentive, detailing when the next dish will arrive, and explaining the origins of an item or the most satisfying way to eat it. Drinks include a strong, global wine list with eight wines by the glass (four red, four white), including an Indian merlot. TATLER TIP The lunch buffet, priced at $56 for two people, is a great deal—and it’s popular, judging by the crowds here at lunchtime. SIGNATURE DISHES

1. Murg malai kebab 2. Sabzi sizzler 3. Galouti kebab 4. Goan prawn curry