India Palace Restaurant - Mushrif Mall, Abu Dhabi

Step into the grand culinary theater of India Palace Restaurant at Mushrif Mall, Abu Dhabi, and prepare to be transported to the golden age of the Mughal Empire. Since opening its doors in 1997, this distinguished Indian restaurant has stood as a beacon of authenticity in the UAE capital, bringing the storied traditions of North-West Frontier cuisine to life on Level 3 of one of Al Mushrif's most popular shopping destinations. Here, the aromatic whisper of freshly ground spices, the dramatic sizzle of tandoori clay ovens, and the warm embrace of regal hospitality converge to create an experience that has captivated a loyal following for nearly three decades. With a remarkable rating of 4.8 stars from over 7,198 reviews, India Palace has earned its place as one of Abu Dhabi's most celebrated Indian dining establishments, where every meal unfolds as a carefully orchestrated journey through India's magnificent culinary heritage.

What sets India Palace apart from the ordinary is its unwavering commitment to the refined cooking techniques of the imperial court. The menu is a living anthology of Mughal gastronomy, featuring dishes that were once reserved for emperors and nobility. Signature offerings like the legendary Butter Chicken—a velvety masterpiece that has achieved cult status among regulars—and the fragrant biryanis that NBA superstar Shaquille O'Neal famously declared the “G.O.A.T of Biryanis” represent the pinnacle of the kitchen's artistry. Each dish is prepared using time-honored methods passed down through generations, with every ingredient carefully marinated, slow-cooked, and presented with the elegance befitting a royal feast. The restaurant's mastery of the tandoor, a traditional clay oven, imparts an unmistakable smoky depth to its succulent kebabs and freshly baked naans, creating flavors that are at once bold and nuanced, familiar yet extraordinary.

Our Culinary Philosophy

At the heart of India Palace lies a profound respect for the culinary wisdom of the North-West Frontier. This region, which stretches across modern-day India and Pakistan, gave birth to a cooking style defined by its restrained elegance—where the quality of the marinade, the precision of the flame, and the balance of spices speak louder than heavy sauces or excessive embellishment. The restaurant's chefs, many of whom have dedicated decades to perfecting this singular craft, follow a disciplined approach that prioritizes the natural essence of each ingredient. Unlike many contemporary Indian eateries that rely on cream-laden gravies, India Palace allows the purity of its tandoori preparations to take center stage. The result is a menu that feels simultaneously rustic and refined, a tribute to the culinary genius of ancient royal kitchens reinterpreted for the modern palate.

This philosophy extends beyond the technical aspects of cooking to encompass the entire dining ritual. From the moment a guest is seated, the service team orchestrates an experience steeped in the Mughal tradition of 'Mehmaan Nawazi'—the art of treating guests with unparalleled warmth and generosity. The interiors, adorned with subtle nods to Indo-Islamic architecture, create an ambiance of understated luxury, where soft lighting and comfortable seating invite leisurely meals and heartfelt conversations. Every detail, from the handcrafted copper serving vessels to the carefully curated background music, has been thoughtfully selected to complement the sensory journey of the food. It is this holistic approach that transforms a simple dinner into a memory that lingers long after the last morsel of dessert has been savored.

A Menu Fit for Royalty

The menu at India Palace is a comprehensive exploration of Mughlai cuisine, thoughtfully organized to guide diners through a feast that can be tailored to any occasion or appetite. The journey typically begins with an array of appetizers that showcase the kitchen's virtuosity with the tandoor. Standouts include the succulent Malai Tandoori Chicken, marinated in a delicate blend of cream, yogurt, and aromatic spices before being roasted to perfection, and the crispy Samosas, golden pastry parcels stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas that offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Other starters such as Seekh Kebabs, Paneer Tikka, and Tandoori Prawns demonstrate the breadth of the kitchen's expertise, catering admirably to carnivores and vegetarians alike.

The main course at India Palace is where the Mughal legacy truly shines. The signature Butter Chicken, a dish that has earned the restaurant legions of devoted fans, features tender pieces of tandoori chicken simmered in a luxuriously smooth tomato-based gravy enriched with butter and cream. The depth of flavor is extraordinary—sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced, it pairs beautifully with the restaurant's freshly baked naan bread, which arrives at the table blistered, buttery, and steaming hot. Equally impressive are the biryani selections, slow-cooked rice dishes layered with marinated meat or vegetables and sealed with dough to trap the aromatic steam. The Raan Biryani, featuring slow-braised whole leg of lamb, is a showstopper for special gatherings, while the classic Chicken Biryani offers a more approachable yet equally satisfying option. Dal Makhani, a creamy black lentil preparation simmered overnight, provides a comforting vegetarian counterpoint, its richness a testament to the magic of patient cooking.

Services We Offer

India Palace at Mushrif Mall is designed to accommodate the diverse needs of Abu Dhabi's cosmopolitan clientele. Whether you are a family celebrating a milestone, a group of friends catching up over a leisurely meal, or a business professional seeking an impressive venue for a lunch meeting, the restaurant's flexible dining options ensure a tailored experience.

• Dine-In Experience: The main dining room offers an elegant yet relaxed setting perfect for everything from intimate dinners to group celebrations. The attentive service team is adept at pacing meals according to guest preferences, ensuring never-rushed service. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and evenings, and can be easily made through the restaurant's website or by phone at +971 2 447 2420.
• Takeaway Service: For those who prefer to enjoy India Palace's flavors in the comfort of their own home or office, a comprehensive takeaway menu is available. The restaurant uses high-quality packaging designed to keep food fresh and hot during transit. Orders can be placed in person at the counter or via phone for quick pickup.
• Contactless Delivery: Extending its reach beyond the mall premises, India Palace partners with leading delivery platforms to bring its Mughlai specialties directly to customers across Abu Dhabi. The contactless delivery option prioritizes safety and convenience, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving without leaving home.
• Online Ordering: The user-friendly website, indiapalace.ae, features a seamless online ordering system that allows guests to browse the full menu, customize their selections, and arrange for pickup or delivery with just a few clicks. This digital convenience is perfectly suited to the fast-paced lifestyles of mall shoppers and professionals.
• Event & Group Bookings: The restaurant's location within Mushrif Mall makes it a strategic choice for post-shopping gatherings, birthday parties, and corporate events. The management is experienced in accommodating large groups and can work with hosts to create customized menus that suit specific preferences and budgets.

Why Choose India Palace

In a city blessed with an abundance of Indian restaurants, India Palace at Mushrif Mall distinguishes itself through a rare combination of factors that resonate deeply with discerning diners. First and foremost is the brand's longevity—having been founded in 1997, it has witnessed and adapted to the evolving tastes of the UAE's multicultural population while remaining steadfastly true to its culinary roots. This experience translates into a consistency that regulars have come to rely upon; whether you visit for the first time or the hundredth, the Butter Chicken will taste exactly as you remember it, the naan will be just as pillowy, and the service just as gracious. Such reliability is the hallmark of a mature, well-managed establishment that has honed its operations to near perfection.

Another compelling reason to choose India Palace is its unique position within the SFC Group, one of the UAE's most respected diversified business enterprises. Founded by Kesavan Muraleedharan, a visionary entrepreneur who began his career as an accountant four decades ago before building a multi-industry powerhouse, the group operates over 50 outlets spanning restaurants, catering, construction, hotels, and FMCG. This corporate backing ensures that India Palace benefits from robust quality control systems, professional staff training programs, and a culture of continuous improvement that smaller independent restaurants often struggle to match. The brand has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Dubai Service Excellence Award from HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a testament to its commitment to outstanding hospitality. Dining at India Palace is not merely a transaction; it is an endorsement of a legacy built on integrity, passion, and an uncompromising pursuit of excellence.

Location and Accessibility

India Palace occupies a prime position on Level 3 of Mushrif Mall, a popular shopping and leisure destination in the Al Mushrif district of Abu Dhabi. The mall itself is a well-known landmark, offering ample free parking and easy access from major roadways, making it a convenient meeting point for families and friends coming from different parts of the city. For visitors unfamiliar with the area, the restaurant's location on the third floor places it near other dining and entertainment options, turning a meal into part of a broader afternoon or evening outing. The exact address is Level 3, Mushrif Mall, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The space is fully accessible, with elevators and escalators providing easy access for guests of all ages and mobility levels.

The Al Mushrif area is a vibrant residential and commercial hub, and the mall's popularity ensures a lively atmosphere throughout the week. For those relying on public transportation or ride-hailing services, the location is well-serviced and easily identifiable on all major mapping platforms. The restaurant's proximity to other attractions within the mall—including retail stores, a cinema, and family entertainment centers—makes it an ideal choice for a meal before or after shopping, or as a standalone culinary destination. The Google Maps Plus Code for the location is CCM7+V7 Abu Dhabi, which can be used for precise navigation. With its strategic setting, India Palace at Mushrif Mall successfully bridges the gap between a convenient mall eatery and a full-fledged fine dining experience, offering the best of both worlds to time-conscious yet quality-driven diners.

Operating Hours and Reservations

India Palace at Mushrif Mall welcomes guests daily, offering generous operating hours designed to accommodate both lunch and dinner crowds. The restaurant opens at 11:30 AM and continues service until 11:30 PM, providing a twelve-hour window during which the full menu is available. This schedule is particularly convenient for mall visitors, who can enjoy a midday break from shopping or an early dinner before the mall's evening peak. On certain days, the hours may extend slightly to align with the mall's operations, ensuring that late shoppers and cinema-goers can still enjoy a meal after their activities conclude. It is always advisable to check the restaurant's official website or call +971 2 447 2420 to confirm timings during public holidays, Ramadan, or special events, as adjustments may occur.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, during evenings, and throughout festive seasons when the restaurant experiences high demand. The booking process is straightforward and can be completed through the “Book A Table” feature on the India Palace website. Walk-in guests are always welcome and will be accommodated based on availability, but reserving ahead guarantees a table and minimizes waiting time. For large parties or special requests, contacting the management directly by phone is the best approach, allowing the team to allocate appropriate seating and prepare for any specific requirements. The restaurant also accommodates outside catering inquiries for events held in other venues, demonstrating its flexibility and commitment to sharing its Mughlai cuisine beyond the walls of Mushrif Mall.