Welcome to the Shish Mahal Restaurant in Musselburgh

Idris holding the certificate achieved for the Good Food from East Lothian Food Awards

The Shish Mahal is one of Musselburgh's oldest and most successful family owned restaurants. Not only that; the Shish Mahal was one of the first, if not the first, Fully Licensed Indian Restaurant throughout Edinburgh and the Lothian’s to open and certainly the longest serving Fully Licensed Indian Restaurant open today.

As East Lothian’s most visited Indian restaurant, the Shish Mahal has gained a reputation for it's authentic yet creative cuisine. Established by the Khan Family in 1979, much of the Shish Mahal’s achievements are to the credit of Idris Khan, who has been the driving force behind the popularity of the Shish Mahal for over 30 years.

When the Shish Mahal Indian restaurant first opened its doors in 1979, the public perception of Indian food was that the girls ate Korma and the boys wolfed down a Madras - accompanied by copious quantities of lager. Some brave hearts even took on the dreaded Vindaloo, much to the amusement of waiters all over the country. Throughout the 1980’s and 90’s, however, a revolution occurred.

Through the gentle introduction of more and more authentic dishes from the subcontinent, more discerning palates have developed. Our menu is balanced between the need to maintain genuine all time favourites and urge to explore new styles of cuisine. At the Shish Mahal we are proud to present the best of both worlds.

Indian and Pakistani cooking is an art, derived over the centuries from a variety of sources. Factors such as Religion, health, customs and even climatic conditions have played their part. Mealtimes in an Indian or Pakistani household are like ceremonial occasions. The food is a gift from the Deity and should be prepared with due respect.

Spices have medicinal and antiseptic properties. The spices are full of iron and Tandoori dishes are ideal for those among us who are perhaps a little more diet conscious.

Much thought has been given in designing this Restaurant to ensure that the classic theme of the food is enhanced by a suitably authentic atmosphere. We also have plans a foot to refurbish certain areas of the restaurant so our customers can enjoy their experience further.

Since opening its doors the Shish Mahal has received a string of industry accolades including in 2008 the Shish Mahal was voted Runner Up at the Good Food from East Lothian Food Awards in the best world food cuisine category. Over the years we have been proud recipients of a number of awards and featured in the “Good Curry Guide” as well as featuring in the media and press.

We are open 7 days a week from 5pm till midnight and offer a home delivery service – please ask our staff for details. Tuesday night is also our buffet night which offers fantastic value for money and a wide selection of our dishes available.

We welcome your patronage and will be only too delighted to help with your selection.