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Pakwan Restaurant (O’Farrell St)
Master Critic Review
Pakwan Restaurant (O’Farrell St)
8.2
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Casual Pakistani–Indian counter service drawing steady crowds for tandoori, biryani, and homestyle curries. Orders move quickly, portions are hearty, and the grill smoke signals you’re in the right place.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken tikka (tandoori), Lamb biryani, Palak paneer
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: High-throughput tandoor and biryani operation with dependable flavors.
Who should go: Families and big-appetite groups
When to visit: Lunch rush moves fast; dinner after 8pm is calmer
What to order: Chicken tikka; lamb biryani; palak paneer
Insider tip: Split a kabab plate and a curry—portions are built to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking; pay lots available within a few blocks on O’Farrell and Ellis Streets.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, t-shirts, and everyday wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—expect lively chatter and kitchen noise, but conversations at your table are manageable.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours; tables turn fairly quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though lines can form briefly at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple curries, dals, and vegetable biryanis are popular choices.
Vegan options: Limited but available—ask for vegetable curries and breads without dairy ghee.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes like tandoori meats and curries work; breads and samosas contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—this is more of a casual, bustling counter-service spot than a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations are taken, and tables turn quickly. Arrive a little off-peak for easier seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often dine here. Portions are large and shareable, but there are no high chairs or kids’ menus.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and larger portions compared to sit-down Indian restaurants nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner or a fine-dining Indian experience.