Srinagar, May 27 (KNO) : Eating-out in Kashmir has added a new and innovative trend to it as more and more people are holding get-togethers to break the Ramadhan fast at fast-food joints and cafes which now-a-days are abuzz during evenings.
Interestingly, unconventional cuisines at these “budget eateries and cafes” have been receiving an overwhelming response from revelers throughout the ongoing month of Ramadhan. People have been thronging fast-food outlets and restaurants to relish delicacies such as the Lebanese shawarma , Afghani and tandoori chicken.
According to Sajid Ahmad, Manager of a popular restaurant at Boulevard, the trend of eating-out non-conventional cuisines such as Chinese during Iftaar has picked up in the last few years. "There are many who opt for Chinese food and are ready to eat these preparations right upto the Eid day," Sajid told KNO.
“Momos, soups, fried rice are the most fast-selling products since " our restaurant has maintained credibility for last several years," Sajid told KNO adding that even Sehri or pre-dawn meal is served to a lot of people who visit the restaurant which includes a lot of people involved in hospitality, tour and travel business.
Indian food specialties, Chinese food and Wazwan are also popular among food lovers said Naseer Ahmad, Manager of a fast-food joint at Sanat Nagar chowk. "While our restaurant is abuzz during evenings with youngsters visiting us a lot, take-away section has also seen a lot of activity as well," he said.
Even the more luxurious and high-end restaurants such as 7Cs Café and Fine Dine at Sangarmal Shopping Complex on MA Road has been witnessing food lovers thronging it in large numbers. “Every Iftaar has a unique and innovative presentation of various delicacies,’ says its manager, Bashir Ahmad Shah adding that they ensure that special Iftar cuisines is served fresh and sizzling hot to the tables. This restaurant has some special Ramadan additions including fresh-fruit platters, juices, soups, chicken biryani, tikka, and daniwal Korma.
“We have witnessed a very good response from people since last Ramadan. People in large numbers come to have food here in this month. Off late we have been hosting Iftar parties so that the people get a chance to relish their favourite foods,” Shah told KNO.
Most restaurant owners said people visit them hoping for a change from the routine Iftar served at home. “Iftar spread which includes dates, variety of fresh-fruit juices, aromatic dishes, Arabian cuisines, Ramadan-themed sweet are among the hot selling items,” said owner of a restaurant in civil lines.(KNO)