Namak Mandi

TikTok got me excited about this place, so I checked out their $19.99 lunch buffet. I was looking forward to some Pakistani entrees, but the buffet options didn’t include what I expected. Everything offered was more generic and common (tandoori chicken, chicken curry, butter chicken, palak, chana). The food was fine, but it wasn’t incredible. The price was what drew me in. Service was fine, and I did enjoy the kheer. I might go back for dinner when I’m in town next.

Came here for the weekday buffet. The food was “okay” in a sense that - I understand that they need to carer to the broader clientele’s palates - the food spice levels were mild. Granted, the hot foods were flavorful. The cut salad was not fresh as the lettuce was browning and about to enter soggy texture. If we ever do come back here again, maybe we’ll just order à la carte so the spice is tailored for our personal preference. I do recommend ordering the chai. Service and general atmosphere is commendable. The waitperson was attentive and cleared tables as the plates were put away from the tables after eating. Drinks were also served promptly. Bathrooms were kept clean.

This restaurant in not for Desi people at all!!! I’ve had eaten in lot of different spots. As soon as me and my wife walked in the vibe went all down because of the waitress the way she looked at us. She was very rushed with us. We went to wash our hands the washroom is so nasty they don’t got soap instead they added water in a soap dispenser. The pee was all around the toilet bowel. We ordered food just 1 item which was chicken tikka masala and that took about 45 min plus. And the result of the food was worse. What I’ve eaten for so many years turned out to be a sweet dish. My stomach was hurting all night. Oh I completely forgot about the salad they served it was all frozen. There’s no authenticity in what we have eaten today. I wouldn’t be leaving a review like that if at least the wait

Amazing South Asian food in DC. We did the Iftar buffet which was $25 with an incredible variety and delicious food. The butter chicken and their naan were particularly amazing. Shoutout to our server Pinky who was so kind and gracious. 10/10

Visited Namak Mandi in Washington, D.C. with my family. While many locals seem to eat here, our experience was very disappointing. During dinner, large trays filled with dirty plates from the afternoon buffet were left on chairs at dining tables, showing clear neglect for basic cleanliness. Even after pointing this out to the staff, nothing was done. There was also a bin full of dirty dishes near the buffet counter, clearly visible to diners. This was disgusting and completely ruined the experience. The food was also a letdown. We ordered chicken mandi, which was far too simple, just colored rice and chicken, no dry fruits, no nuts, no mayo, no salsa or any sides that usually come with different mandi varients. They served salad, which was fine, but the green chutney was bad. We also order