Kohinoor

By far some of the best Tawas cuisine I’ve had in town… definitely a foodist’s dream… (yes I said foodist!) I love the traditional style that has not been diluted as in so many restaurants of its kind… if your adventurous and willing to try what the world can offer, this is the place to start… the staff is amazingly friendly, and the food is top notch, come to the best

First of all, I would like to say this is the best Pakistani/​Indian food I have ever had in my life. Two of my friends who are Pakistani and Indian introduced me to this place, saying it’s the only good place to eat that type of food in SA and man, the food did NOT disappoint! I’ve been back so many times and every single time, the food is just right.
So if you are always looking for the Indian buffets, then I beg you to change your thinking and come here instead for some high quality cuisine. The only downside? It’s a little pricey but if you come in big parties and split many dishes and eat family style, then you get to eat a lot and spend only $ 15 – 20 each depending what and how many dishes you order.
WHAT TO ORDER: Everything here should be eaten with either naan or paratha — my favorite? The parathas! My favorite dish here is the tawa chicken — so deliciously spiced with onions and tomatoes! A must must try. Other fantastic dishes: butter chicken, bihari kebab, karahi chicken. Eat everything with the naan and pour the complimentary raita over all of your food. Also the mango lassi here is a delicious sweet drink (smoothie-​like) that I also recommend! There’s the salty lassi too (that one of my friends absolutely loves) if you’re less of a sweet person.
I’m craving the food as I write this review!

The sign for the building is pretty nondescript. The restaurant is in between an auto place and the Sonic. When you walk in, walk around the bar table. You can grab a menu from there and then sit down at any table. Once you decide what you want to order, go back and order there. That’s also where you pay.
They have a complementary salad. Tastes fresh, but nothing super interesting as it’s just lettuce and carrots… The dressing is actually pretty spicy though! We’ve tried tawa chicken, tawa kabab, butter chicken, and palak paneer. Palak paneer was very buttery tasting, not really my preference. My absolute favorite so far is tawa kabab with paratha. It is so deliciously spicy and rich. Paratha is second favorite. It’s a flaky flatbread that is absolute perfection. They have very clear warnings that it takes a while for food to come out 30 – 45 minutes. Ours was probably around 30 minutes. It was well worth the wait. Also another heads up, rice and bread and purchased separately from entrees. Portions are large. Definitely will have leftovers.
Our waitress was the same cashier. She was friendly, helpful. She came by and checked on us appropriately.
There was a board that has other items not on their menu that they do serve. This is a great restaurant serving north Indian cuisine. Absolutely recommend trying it out!

We had a delightful lunch with well prepared beef kabobs with tender beef and a delicious combination of spices. The rice was perfectly cooked. Chai tea was a lovely addition.

The meat is always so tender and the portions are pretty generous, so it’s always good to share! The food is extremely flavorful and the staff is always so friendly and inviting. So glad San Antonio has a restaurant like this!

This is super authentic!!! They use family recipes similar in flavor and texture to those from back home, and the taste is not compromised by pandering to people who prefer the ubiquitous buffet style foods presented at other Indian restaurants. Be warned that the food takes time to prepare (usually a 15 to 20 min wait time from when you place the order), as the marinades are made fresh daily and the dishes are cooked when ordered. My favorite dish combinations are the Tawa Kabob, Butter Chicken, Parata, and Dal.
Unless you have your own Desi Aunty at home to make you delicious Indo-​Pak food, I highly recommend dining here to get your ethnic cuisine fix.

Amazing food that I miss from last time I went! Food is always made fresh and so worth the wait when you get it. Even the basic kulfi is served a better way. I come at least twice every time I visit San Antonio. Can’t wait for that Tawa chicken again.

Travel from Waco on a long weekend has a stop over there the staff is very nice and the food is the best would recommend this new resturant very neat and clean

Ordered dal, nan, and chicken «berenji»?. Liked it. The food here is carefully made for each order and with quality ingredients. Not a buffet-​style food factory. It’s family owned and friendly. Good spot. Only tip is change the complimentary salad a bit then it would be 5 stars for me.

Would have given them a 5 star, only didn’t because their bihari kabab and biryani are more like home cooked food versus ‘bazari’ ie street food similar to Karachi signature places like Al Kabab (best Bihari)
Otherwise for being a place in US and that too in San Antonio they are by far the best sub-​continent restaurant.
Out of all their dishes, the Bihari kabab w a home style paratha and biryani are worth going back for all the time.
The other plus, the staff and owners very receptive and customer centric.

I ordered the Chapli Kabab, Kahri Chicken, Chicken Biryani, and Naan. Oh man, everything was delicious. The Chapli Kabab had a wonderful grilled aroma and was very moist. If you like spicy food, if recommend the Kahri Chicken. The chicken was so tender, it fell off the bone and it had such complex flavors.
My girlfriend and I were looking to try something new and found this place. It’s a family owned establishment. I don’t think there’s a buffet. The owner was very friendly and gave some recommendations on what to order.
Definitely recommend!

I usually take pictures of my food before I eat (typical Asian), but this time I could not resist and dove right in. The kebab rolls were spot on. Firstly, the paratha bread is buttery and flaky and serves as a perfect vessel for the ground beef kebab. The filling of ground beef, onions, and chaat masala is perfectly seasoned and full of flavor. For added heat and sweetness, the tamarind and mint chutneys are excellent. The order comes with 2 kebabs which I definitely could’ve eaten in one sitting, but I decided to save one for later. Looking forward to exploring the rest of their menu.

As far as international cuisine, much less spicy international cuisine is concerned, I am a complete wimp. So, when I decided to stop in a Pakistani restaurant, I amazed even myself to find that some cuisines get an unfair shake when one thinks of spicy. That was my mindset… until I visited Kohinoor, a small, unassuming restaurant in the Medical Center. My mind is changed in a BIG way.
EDIT 12−13−15
I failed to mention that the order process is rather easy. You walk in, go to the big bar-​like wraparound counter and place your order there with the hostess. Look for the rather large sign that states in large, friendly letters «ORDER HERE» (and DO NOT PANIC). You then choose a table to sit where your order will be delivered. Tip #1: all menu items are a la carte, meaning they are priced individually and not as a special together. The naan bread, rice, and drinks are a la carte; you must pay for them separately. Tip #2: You may request for your order to be lightly seasoned. At Kohinoor, everything is seasoned as it would be normally for Pakistani tastes. So, if you are not a fan of spicy. tell them! They’ll be happy to accommodate you. And lastly, tip #3: DO NOT be in a hurry for your order to come out to you and then post here on Unilocal that they were slow in getting your food out. It was explained to me most politely, as I am doing here for you, that their food ***takes some time to prepare***. So be patient, kick back with some pleasant pre-​meal conversation (or your smartphone) and you shall be rewarded with great Paki cuisine!

I was warmly greeted and given a menu, which was lovingly and painstakingly explained to me by the young but delightful hostess. I explained to her that I was a complete wuss about spicy, and she acknowledged that, yet did say that some of the fare was spicy simply because that is the norm for Pakistani food. Going out on a limb at my own peril, I decided on the tawa kebab: a marinated, ground beef roll (I thought it was on a skewer… NOT! Complete surprise!), and an order of naan bread and basmati rice to complete the meal.
The hostess did explain that the meal does take some time to prepare. As I had plenty of time today, I agreed and took my place at a table.
Was brought out a small plate of veggies with a spicy sauce. I did go for the sauce, and was pleasantly surprised by the cool and the spicy hitting my palate at the same time. I was also served a tall carafe of water (thinking I would need it…). About twenty minutes later, food came out, piping out and LOTS of it! Portions were OUTSTANDING (not sure about others who thought the portion sizes were too skimpy, but as I was alone, it was more for myself than I thought). The tawa is pleasantly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection! Not overcooked to crispiness, and the rice and crispy, tender naan bread (both of which are extra) fulfilled the deliciousness of the tawa.
Again, since I have no prior reference for Pakistani food, this was my very first experience, and one I am happy that I undertook. The service was most excellent, not like others who have had less than desirable experiences with the service.
I spoke to both the owner and his son, and we had a nice discussion about Americans’ expectations and how many people, especially here in South Texas, are afraid to go outside their comfort zone and try a new cuisine. This and an overabundance of Tex-​Mex here in San Antonio. Since I live in the Med Center, I am delighted that there is so much diversity and choice in cuisine, and I hope that Kohinoor will be with us for many more years to come.
I encourage… nay, BEG you to try something new. Especially this little gem of a restaurant.

The food was Great, I am originally from India Goa I can tell when food is good. Keep up with this great tradition of Service and Quality ! We had Fish, Chicken Tikka, Nihari and nice paratha… Finger Licking food and that Malai Kulfi yum yum.
One thing I want to share about the Owner Mr. Thoufik he makes a point to connect with the guest as he can… then grants that space to enjoy.
I think this Attitude is what is the driving force of your «place» Keep up ! I will be back and highly recommend to others.

Love the chicken tawa. It’s not a wet curry like a soup, it’s thicker and less volumnous, more like a spread to coat the chicken. Used to order it with naan to sop up the top oil later but now my GF diet prohibits it so use rice instead. Warning#1, it takes a while to make, 30+ minute wait is not unusual, but well worth it. busy times can even be closer to an hour! Warning#2, it’s spicy hot… and worth it

On a personal note, I love Indian food and I have had many experiences with Indian restaurants. I came here because it came up on Unilocal as an Indian restaurant. However, it’s important to note that they’re not a typical Indian restaurant. They advertise that they’re both an Indian and Pakistani restaurant. They didn’t have much in the way of Indian food selections. I typically order an Indian korma dish and they didn’t have it. So, I decided to order something different: Chicken Biryani. My assumption is that it’s a Pakistani dish. I also ordered beef samosas and paratha.
In short, the food and customer service was lackluster. The food did not have a distinct Indian flavor/​presentation that I’m used to. It seemed more Pakistani than Indian. I don’t plan on visiting here again. If you’re looking for an authentic Indian restaurant with great customer service, I recommend India Oven.

Ordered takeout from Kohinoor on 9/12/15…it was amazing. I ordered nihari and shrimp tawa. The nihari was one of the best restaurant nihari (homemade nihari is the best) I’ve ever had. Very tender beef that cut gracefully. I was satisfied that there wasn’t any fat or cartilage hanging on the beef. Very homemade feeling as it was served with cilantro, ginger, and lemon.
The shrimp tawa was flavorful. I wouldn’t say it’s a must order but it satisfied my seafood craving.
I think they had some of the best naan I’ve ever had as well. It was very warm and fluffy. You can just tell that it was fresh compared to hard and stale naan you may find at other Pakistani/​Indian establishments.
EDIT: I have have had returned to Kohinoor for takeout with very similar experiences as described above… But when I came with my family for dine in it was a little different. I feel like the portions are smaller when dining in, also there food is very spicy and we never got refill in water. They messed up our order and the Mexican server didn’t speak English so we got out of our seats mid meal to tell the owner. Bad service for dining in. I will continue to takeout. But this isn’t a place I will take my family to. Updating from 5 stars to 4 cuz the service and quantity of dining in.
Tips: Be prepared to wait. There food is fresh so it takes a while. My order took 40 minutes, which they had told me. The food is a bit spicy for the sensitive. Perfect for my taste buds If you can’t handle the heat then you might want to ask them to go easy on the spices a little.

This is real pakistani/​indian food. I’ve grown up with some tough competition — a huge Muslim family filled with moms who can cook the dishes here with their eyes closed. So trust me when I say — this is as good as it gets (in America). The tawa chicken is indescribably phenomenal and is huge in portion size. Some of my other favorites are: karahi gosth/​chicken, butter chicken, and the bihari kebab. The more traditional naan is very good here, but do not pass up the parathas because they are like none other i’ve had before. I highly recommend coming here with 5 — 6 people and ordering the following: 3 paratha, 3 naan, karahi chicken, butter chicken, tawa chicken, bihari kebab, palak paneer, and 1 item from the special menu. Share this all family style and split the bill — it’ll come out to about 15 a person, tip not included. Might sound like a lot, but this is a meal fit for kings.
P. s. If you’re from the DFW area and have heard of a place called Al-​Markaz, this place beats it hands down. Yup, its that good. I promise.

Did not know what to expect with this place. It was a little confusing when we walked in. Wasn’t sure how it worked… so here’s the lowdown for my Unilocal friends.
When you walk in you can go ahead and seat yourself and grab a menu. When you’re ready to order, you go up to the counter and place your order, remember your table number because they need that information when they put in your order. As for paying, you pay at the end of the meal at the counter.
So, this is what we ordered Naan, Rice, Butter Chicken and Nihari. I loved the Naan it was massive and fluffy. The chicken in the Butter Chicken was a little dry. The Nihari (beef stew) was flavorful but it did have a kick.
Overall, I’d give this place 3 stars. The food did take a really long time to come out, the waitstaff wasn’t very attentive, and the food wasn’t my favorite to be honest.

I miss Kohinoor. Desperately. I dream about it at night.
The spice level here is fantastic. Even getting something mild leaves me overheated in the best way possible. And even leftovers are worth looking forward to!
I loved the Tawa Chicken, something I’ve never found anywhere else. It was spicy deliciousness! And the portion size was awesome! I got two full meals out of it without even trying. The heat keeps you from over-eating…although you still walk away feeling the food coma coming over you. Thankfully they add this sauce for the salad to mellow it out some.
The butter chicken isn’t something I normally order when I get Indian, but I tried it and was very pleased. And I’d super recommend calling and asking if they have any specials for the night. I did that one night and ended up with a super spicy, super delicious vegetarian dish.
The naan is tasty, go garlic or go home.
I’ve never eaten in, but I ordered take out way too many times during my last 9 week stint at Fort Sam. I can’t wait to go back for more training so I can get some more SPICY awesomeness!

As a long time patron of the original establishment, I have visited kohinoor dozens of time. I can proudly say that this my go to Pakistani food joint without ever a bad experience. Yes there have been minor misses rarely. I.e. tea came out late or an extra order of chutney may have been missed. But they are mute in the grand scheme of my dining experience.
So finally made it to the new location with a friend. We ordered the Chana poori which is chick peas with deep fried bread. It was as delicious as expected. The Chanas were spicy and flavorful. The poori was light and fluffy. We also ordered their infamous Tawas fish. I am not a sea food fan by any means but find myself devouring the Tawa fish with the spicy and tangy masala and potatoes every time we order it. Also got halwa which is a desert with Chai tea and Mango lassi. One thing about most Indian joint in the city is that over eating pretty much always means a brick in your stomach and misery for the next few hours. That is never the case with Kohinoor. They use quality ingredients and everything is made fresh to order.
I am a fan of this place for life.

I am so glad Kohinoor opened up this new location in my hood. I am a loyal customer of theirs and was a regular at their original storefront on Starcrest Dr.
This new location is great. It is clean and spacious. As always, the dishes here are so rich in flavor and SPICY! My favorites are tawa chicken, chicken biryani, naan, and mango lassi. I have yet to try the achar goat!
I’ve only been to this new location a couple of times since they opened. The thing is I have to refrain myself from coming here b/​c I always over eat! Gotta fight the San Antonio body, ya hear!

45 mins to make my take out order? No problem! It’ll take me about that long to drive from my house on the NE side of town anyways.
Plus, we’re used to the routine. We know everything is made to order & takes time. My hubs & I usually go to their Starcrest Drive location. But the owner had to close it for a few weeks to give this location his full attention. So it’s a bit of a drive for us until Starcrest re-​opens. But we’ll make that drive. We have to have our Kohinoor fix whenever we’re in town!
This past weekend, my hubs had to work in the Medical Center area. This Fredericksburg Rd. location is less than 2 miles away from his workplace. So when he texted me & asked me to bring him some dinner, I immediately thought of Kohinoor. I ordered dishes that I knew would heat up well in case he wasn’t able to break away at 7pm (targeted time) to eat. I ordered paratha, basmati rice, butter chicken, & tawa kabob ($ 33.53 total). A side of onions, carrots, iceberg lettuce, jalapeño, & a spicy greenish sauce came with the order. Usually my hubs would want either a mango lassi or sweet lassi with his meal. But I didn’t order one this time. Highly recommend those drinks however.
I picked up the food & brought it to hubby’s workplace. 7pm came & went. I sat around waiting & waiting…& waiting… He was finally able to break away close to 11pm. My starvin’ Marvin devoured almost everything in sight before heading back to work.
Over time, we’ve tried nearly everything on the menu. No disappointments! The food is always well prepared, spicy, & tasty. Look for specials on their white board.
This location has ample parking & plenty of seating. The ordering system is still the same: order at the counter & grab a seat.
The hours are still wacky. Doesn’t open until noon (according to website & sign in the window, but white board has 1pm for opening???) & closed on Mondays. So, good for late lunch or dinner.
Remember to bring something or someone to keep you entertained for about 45 mins. Food takes awhile to prepare, but it’s very worth the wait. Bön appetit!