Shinwari Karahi
Reviews of Shinwari Karahi
from GoogleAs an Afghan, it pains me to write this but I had heard some good things and was incredibly disappointed. It took me 3 separate tries to have us get someone's attention to be seated, with the restaurant being largely empty. Then I had to go find someone to take our order and once they did, they didn't bring out water or drinks until the food was brought out. We ordered the chicken biryani and the beef kabob plate. The beef kabob plate was really sad. Such little qabuli and some very old lettuce with 2 slices of cucumber and a tomato slice, hardly even a salad. The kabob was tasty though. The biryani had large chunks of uncooked tomatoes mixed in and other things that didn't belong in a biryani. The only redeeming thing was the portion of the biryani. There was also an off-putting smell in the restaurant, like backed up plumbing. I was so disappointed as I love Afghan and Pakistani food so much. There are so many Afghan restaurants in Calgary that are much better fortunately. The young men who were serving us were doing their best, but we were ignored and found our own boxes and a bag to take the larger portion of biryani home. The prices are truly something else. Over $50 for these 2 dishes only. We won't be coming back.
I had a wonderful experience, especially because of jp excellent service. She was very kind, friendly, respectful, and professional. She made us feel comfortable and welcomed, and she handled everything with a great attitude. Her customer service was truly outstanding, and we really appreciate her effort. She definitely made my experience much better. Great job and thank you for the wonderful service!
The food and service are awesome. The waitress patiently took the order and served us. The head of the restaurant was a great and friendly guy. The food (Pishawri Chapli Kabab, Chicken Karahi, Afghani Naan, Doogh (Lassi - Yogurt Drink), and butter Naan) was spicy and delicious as expected. The dessert, Sher Yakh (Afghan ice cream), was as tasty as always. Not to forget, the prices are fair as well. Definitely recommended for people who want tasty food and desserts with Afghan-style hospitality.
Amazing food and great quantity! They also served complimentary soup in the start. Ordered full chicken shinwari karahi and biryani which tasted great! Our servers Vida and Simran were so considerate and made the experience so enjoyable!
Had a great dining experience at Shinwari Karahi. JP is a great attendant, made my visit so comforting. They’ve complementary welcome soup , breads etc, making this place one of the finest restaurants in area.
Jp excellent service
Jp very professional Perfect
A wonderful dining experience, made even better by JP's outstanding service! What really stood out was how effortlessly she managed everything even when the restaurant was busy, she was incredibly attentive, patient, quick and always willing to help, despite having so much to handle she never compromised on the quality of her service. Her positive attitude and genuine kindness made such a difference. The food was absolutely delicious, fresh and full of authentic flavors.
Thank you jp for the excellent service really appreciate your hardwork and dedication 🫶
I'm happy I visited Shinwari Karahi. The service amazing, the atmosphere calm and welcoming, the food was 100/10. The so far cleanest place I've been to. I wanna mention Manpreet who i was served by. Her amazing personality, and the way she talk is respectful. She didnt only make my night good and worth it. But also gave me one of the best dine in experiences.
Visited on April 3, 2026 This restaurant offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with colorful traditional décor that creates a warm and inviting dining experience. It was quite busy during our visit, which speaks to its popularity. We ordered the Goat Karahi, chicken kebabs, naan, ice cream, and tea. After placing our order, we were informed that chicken kebabs were unavailable and would be substituted with a mix of chicken and beef kebabs. The Goat Karahi was the highlight of the meal—rich in flavor and cooked to perfection. Unfortunately, the chicken and beef kebabs did not meet expectations, as they were quite dry and lacked seasoning. The ice cream and tea were satisfactory and provided a decent finish to the meal. Overall, a mixed experience. Rating: 3/5
About Shinwari Karahi
A 100% halal Afghan and Pakistani karahi restaurant with an on-site prayer space on Castleridge Boulevard NE, built around big, slow-cooked dishes for sharing.
The chicken Shinwari karahi is usually served after a free soup, with Afghani or butter naan. Also order the Peshawari chapli kabab, served with doogh, or the biryani. Fish pakora is on the menu, and the goat karahi is a highlight for many diners. For dessert, try the Sher Yakh Afghan ice cream.
The room and the portions
The room is colourful, with traditional decor, and it works well for a family dinner or a group sharing big plates. Karahi portions are large and made for sharing, so go in ready to share. Many diners praise the friendly, attentive service and say the prices are fair for the quantity, and the complimentary soup at the start is a nice touch.
Before you go
Kebab choices can change on the night, so ask what is available before you order, and check with your server. Diners say the Sher Yakh is as tasty as always, and that the atmosphere is calm and welcoming.
| Saturday | 11 a.m.–11 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 11 a.m.–10 p.m. |
| Monday | 12–10 p.m. |
| Tuesday | 12–10 p.m. |
| Wednesday | 12–10 p.m. |
| Thursday | 12–10 p.m. |
| Friday | 12–11 p.m. |