Taking you along on the journey through my neck of the woods searching to find the best drinking venue on the 2.0 mile strip I call home.

Running on fumes and still fighting through the ills from the prior evening’s transgressions, hunting down sustenance become a necessity. Aiming to balance price, reputation as well as to find a place to impress my lady du jour I decide to head out to one of my favorite restaurants, Shalimar.  Now, Shalimar is indeed not a bar/ lounge (or really any sort of establishment where drinking is the primary purpose), but they more than allow you to help yourself by employing a liberal BYOB policy (nice). As luck would have it, and as I’ve never been one for planning ahead, Royal Liquors and Barcelona Liquors are located right next door and ensure you’ll have proper provisions to wash down the oncoming feast.

Now, being a veteran of Shalimar I anticipated being able to make heads or tails of the ordering process, but entering the hubbub of this particular Sunday evening I’m at a complete loss. With people attempting to order, attempting to pay, fighting for seats and trying to avoid the service staff the eating experience becomes a chaotic dance. Finally finding a seat with my lady friend we’re both taken aback by the chill running through the restaurant. Attempting to remedy the climate problem I’m met with difficulty at every turn.

First: Attempt to close the quarter block long window at the front of the house

Result: Stuck like caramel in a middle schooler’s dental work

Second: Ask service staff to close window

Result:  No dice, apparently with the window closed the restaurant would fill with smoke

-looks like I’m either doomed to freeze to death or die of smoke inhalation

Moving on from my fenestration calamities I am pleasantly surprised to see that my delicious feast has arrived. Service is quick and the kaleidoscopic array of colors is only outmatched by the assortment of flavors found in each dish. With a menu comprising some of India and Pakistan’s favorite items Shalimar ensures that you’re not spoiled for choice.

Along with the great food, Shalimar also makes for some great people watching. Between the BYOB drinking policy and the restaurant’s location near the Gulch there’s an almost constant sideshow of activity and I leave the restaurant with just a few questions.

1: Wouldn’t I play flip cup with my dinner if given the opportunity?

2: How could one go out to eat without their favorite pimp chalice and chain?

3: Did I just have an all inclusive dinner date for less than $30? Shalimar is amazing

The Rundown:

Address: 1409 Polk at Pine (also 532 Jones at Geary)

Hours: Monday – Sunday 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 11:00pm

Best Nights: Weeknights

Drinks: Whatever you dare to bring along – India’s favorite Kingfisher or a Mango Lassi if you want something non-alcoholic

Synopsis: Great budget restaurant. Not too showy, but more than delivers on flavor and atmosphere.