Shish Mahal

★★★★★

“5 Stars – Outstanding Experience at Shish Mahal, Musselburgh ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ We had an exceptional experience at Shish Mahal. Despite a last-minute cancellation from another restaurant, Hanan and Inam went above and beyond to accommodate our group of 18 people with warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality. Their service was nothing short of outstanding—attentive, courteous, and truly welcoming from start to finish. The food was phenomenal. We ordered the Tawa for 4, and every element was bursting with flavor. The lamb chops were perfectly cooked, and the pakoras were crisp, fresh, and delicious. Portion sizes were generous, and the quality was evident in every bite. The mocktails were equally impressive—refreshing, vibrant, and beautifully presented. I tried four different ones, and each one was fantastic. A special thank you to Chef Shayru for delivering such exceptional dishes. This was honestly one of the best dining experiences we’ve had, and we can’t wait to return. I’ll be recommending Shish Mahal to all my friends and family. This place truly deserves to expand into Edinburgh—their standard of food and service is outstanding.”

★★★★★

“The Shish Mahal opened its doors in 1979 and quickly became not only a popular place to dine-in for the people from East Lothian, but many people would travel from a much further distance on hearing people spread their word of mouth recommendations. It soon became an institution somewhat, and built a wonderful reputation within the community, providing a warm atmosphere and welcoming service to all, along with dishing up some exquisite cuisine. For the duration of the 80’s Idris Khan (Founder) and the late Akram Awan (RIP) were the perfect team, and the restaurant was always busy and had a distinct buzz in the air, especially at the weekends. The noise often from the hall was full of laughter and happiness it was rather addictive and a very special place to be. Move forward into the 90s and Mr Khan and his eldest (first) son really had the business growing year on year, it was such a busy yet charming, cosy restaurant that had not only a loyal fan base of regular customers who would visit weekly, it was a place where everyone knew your name… to this day many people still reminisce on how the decor was very warm, magical even, and the red carpeted walls do bring back so many memories for the people of Musselburgh and beyond. Younger generations grew up eating with their families only to become regulars themselves as they got older. In the early 2000’s business continued to remain consistent but as time was passing after the Millennium, The Shish had to make changes to the decor which did create a stir as the foundations from the past were in need of a facelift. This was a challenge as it does change the traditional atmosphere that was loved by all. Eventually with Mr Khans two eldest sons moving away from the industry as the years passed by, the restaurant has faced further challenges; including a pandemic, cost of living crisis and staff changes, it really is incredibly difficult keeping everyone happy but with the remaining 3 brothers of 5 supporting the business, in recent times standards have clearly slipped and the business suffered in comparison to past successes in the 80’s and 90’s, which were the most incredible years, it is possible to have the restaurant buzzing again and by keeping standards very, very high through dedication; hard work and a passion for the business in providing a better atmosphere, award winning customer service and great food! The Shish Mahal has been an important part of the restaurant and takeaway scene in the Honest Toun for so long, I would love to see the younger generation mature, learn and gain experience from the elders who had this business thriving not just surviving. I only hope they will take the business in to the future once they truly understand the local culture and community. The restaurant and its potential 50th anniversary is not too far away and should be celebrated. Customer feedback is extremely important and I would encourage everyone to share your recent experiences whether you’ve had a takeaway or a sit-down meal at the Shish. BYOB has returned which is was very much needed. There’s a reason this “was” the best curry house for miles and miles in the past. Stay humble and make The Shish great again!! GL.”

★★★★★

“Ordered for Delivery, Chicken Tikka masala, mushroom rice and cheese naan. Delivery was on time and when food arrived it wasnt the warmest considering my local address less than 10 minutes away. Chicken Tikka resembled a korma with a few more spices thrown in. Mushroom rice had a plastic taste throughout and cheese naan wasn't overly impressive either. I had been regular customer for a while and noticed food quality decreasing over time and haven't ordered for a while. However I thought I'd give it another try . All very edible just didn't give what I was expecting as a previous customer.”