Virasat Haveli

There’s no shortage of Indian food in Philadelphia, but Virasat offers some of the most delectable Indian and Pakistani fare in the city. From the wide-spanning menu to the crowd-friendly portions, the resto offers authentic dishes at fair prices that are tough to top. Better yet, the chef practiced under a longtime veteran of Desi cuisine, so he knows his way around the kitchen. 

The menu features a wide range of appetizers, like potato-stuffed samosa, crispy dosa, tangy papri chaat, and vegetable pakora. While it couldn’t hurt to kick off the feast with a few small bites, the mains are the real highlight. The chicken korma, doused in a rich coconut sauce with almond and cashew, is equal parts nutty, savory, and fall-apart tender. The goat curry in tomato-onion gravy offers a more robust, pastoral flavor. For a lighter main that’s just as tasty, try the char-kissed fish tikka, in which the salmon is marinated in lemon and herbs before cooking. Of course, there are plenty of vegetarian options too, like lentil-rich dal, chickpea chana masala, and ginger-tinged aloo gobhi. 

There are a number of desserts to savor, too, if you don’t fill up on dinner first. For instance, there’s kheer, a traditional rice pudding, as well as comforting gulab jamun and falooda kulfi, or Indian ice cream with cellophane noodles. As far as drinks go, wash it all down with a warm-spiced masala chai or one of the eatery’s fruity lassis. 

The vibe: Vibrant, colorful, and designed for large groups

The food: Indian and Pakistani food, plus a few Indo-Chinese options

The drink: Lassi, masala chai, and soft drinks

Time Out tip: Philadelphia has a large Muslim population. Luckily for folks who only eat Halal meat, Virasat guarantees that all its proteins are certified Halal.