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    Desilicious

    4.6 (77 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    DESILICIOUS ATMOSPHERE

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    A must order mint mocktail, quite literally bursting with flavor.
    Aashir K.

    I want to preface this review by saying everyone should look closely at the type of accounts posting reviews at this establishment. It seems as there is competition going on and some people are buying fake reviews for this business to run their name in the dirt. Done accounts aren't even based in this country and are leaving reviews. I have been coming here at least once a month for a year now and my opinion of Desilicous still remains the same. Decadent food and drinks from Pakistani cuisine that can be enjoyed by Muslims and non Muslims alike as they use high quality Zabiha Halal meat in all of their food. Their chicken tikka masala is to die for! Along with their seasonal beverages like the mint mocktail never go out of style.

    Naan
    Nadia I.

    I really want to love this place but it could use some improvements. It is a new small business so I trust that they are adjusting and finding their way. Parking was normal street parking in the area. On a Sunday the meters were free so that was helpful. We found a spot right up front. I was there for brunch - we showed up at 11am which is posted as opening time but there was no staff there until about 11:15. They were really kind and welcoming when they arrived and let us know that we would order at the counter and then seat ourselves upstairs. Note that they do not have high chairs or boosters so with small children, the seating is a little challenging. The service, while nice, was slow and a bit disorganized. We were on a schedule and had hoped to leave the restaurant by 1230 or so, unfortunately at 1215 we still were waiting for our food. Ultimately we packaged our food to go and rushed out close to 1pm. The regular naan seemed prepackaged and not cooked in tandoor. The khameeri naan was great (it is a sourdough/fermented dough). My nephew ordered tandoori chicken and he was surprised that it did not have the traditional appearance - he said it tasted ok. The halwa puri was good but oddly the plate came out (I photographed it) and the halwa came a bit later ... The Nihari was ok, it was missing limes and something else that I can't put my finger on. I likely would skip the Nihari if I came back. Other folks at my table had biriyani, lamb Karahi and mango lassis which they seemed to enjoy. Overall, I would come back to try this place a second time after they've been around a little bit longer. There is a lot of potential.

    Upstairs seating
    Victor G.

    DesiLicious opened where Delegates closed during the pandemic. Seating familiar. 2 tables downstairs. 5ish tables upstairs. Minimal decor. Only a floral mural downstairs. Street parking only. Difficult on weekdays. Weekends easier. City parking lots: $6/hour. Order at counter. Pay. Food/drink brought to table 20ish minutes later. Cooked to order. Open kitchen. Offerings (Pakistani): burgers, vegetarian, brunch, chatkharey (sweet & savory snacks), biryani, BBQ specials, breads, mains, Karachi's.. Sips: chai(4) -boiled to order, milk ish top, bold black tea taste thruout. Bites: lamb Karahi (18) doesn't come with naan. -best eaten with naan or other breads. Passed on added cost. Not a bread eater. (Carbs) -Food slow cooked in wok in tomato sauce, special herbs & spices. Served in same. -semi tender lamb pieces, bone attached. With savory tomato sauce resembling curry, ginger shreds & oiliness also present. Yummy! 4.5 stars semi worthy: pricey. Quality: very good. Quantity: ok *menu at counter is a new version. **owner's comments about healthy ingredients from local farms so cool! Should highlight this on website and literature inside eatery...

    Rogash naan
    Yen D.

    Pani puri was missing chutney but had the potato mixture and the tamarind dipping sauce. Chicken tikka masala was good. Garlic naan was standard and good. Rogash naan tasted like a butter naan with sesame seeds. Service was good. It was my friend's birthday and no birthday freebie was given. Restaurant was cozy with a few tables upstairs.

    Great naan bread
    Phil Z.

    Stayed at the AC Hotel across the street last so decided to stop in at night for dinner. Food was excellent and service was great. I'd definitely be back next time I'm in Oakland.

    Crispy Pan Fried Fish

    Great food! Amazing service. Was surprisingly fast too! Had the fish and lamb balti.

    Day 1: Chiken Tikka Massala, Chiken Tandoori, Basmati rice, Garlic Nun, House salad.
    Kaz Y.

    A true hidden gem; a culinary experience tucked away in a little hole-in-the-wall, literally! Whatever you order, expect to wait about 15-20 minutes, and it's absolutely worth it. Everything is cooked fresh to order with a wonderful blend of herbs and spices that make each dish shine. The flavors are incredible, and the hospitality is even better. It feels like grandma's or mom's home cooking, prepared right there and then by the family themselves. I stumbled upon Desilicious, a Pakistani restaurant across from the Federal Building in Downtown Oakland, while searching for Indian food around 2 PM (most places I knew were closed). I ordered my favorite "Indian" dish, and it was so delicious that I went back the very next day to try some of their Pakistani specialties. And let me tell you, I'm so glad I discovered this place!

    Lamb Karahi, 80% bones
    Neelab S.

    When I entered here, I was so impressed and happy to see a female ran business. We placed our food order. Seems they are fairly new and the register was confused about the menu. I got my appetizer fairly quick, however, we waited 45 minutes for our main course. We literally had to go and ask them where our food was! Kitchen was too loud and noisy! Seems their house is adjacent to the business! Little kids were running in and out of the dinning area. After 45 minutes, when our food was served, there was barely any meat in lamb Karahi! The dum biryani was anything but dum biryani barely any chicken. Some dude came and shut the door to the house hallway apologizing about kids! I have never written this long of a review but was really disappointed. We came here because of all the good reviews. They need to be more professional, work on their customer service and serve faster or else they will lose business! I don't think I will ever come here again!

    Carlie C.

    Was very excited to stumble across this place in downtown! It is a family owned restaurant and the family was very kind and welcoming. There's minimal seating downstairs but they have a cute lil area upstairs with seating. I've never eaten at a Pakistani restaurant so they answered all my questions and explained the differences in dishes. I ordered a salad, the chicken karahi, roghni naan, and a mango lassi. I like my food spicy so they also brought me a lil side of peppers and onions. Everything tasted really fresh and flavorful, the chicken was succulent, the naan was warm and crispy and I really liked the sesame seeds. The mango lassi was light and delicious. Will definitely be back next time I'm in the area!

    Lisa W.

    I ordered a rice and lentils for just $5.50 a week or two ago through the "Too Good To Go" app, which is a tool to try to help combat food waste and introduce people to new businesses. They had the food ready to go (no pun intended) when I arrived within the 4-9pm pickup window. I probably wouldnt have ventured that way anytime soon without the app. It looked warm and inviting inside but I did not stay or try anything else yet. I am a big fan of Middle Eastern food though and am glad this place exists - authentic Pakistani food. Some of the drinks (non-alcoholic of course) on the menu looked really good. Would go back to try some, like the mint/lemonade.

    chana masala and rice

    This was a place with some fantastic food and service. I especially recommend the chana masala and chicken tikka masala!

    Biryani. Chicken really moist. Everything was really moist.

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    3 months ago

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    3 months ago

    Food and service was great. Wish they were open till later Since it is a drive for us to get too.

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    1 year ago

    Lamb was insanely good. People friendly. Bathroom even has a bidet (what?) Will come here next time when in Oakland.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Desilicious Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Desilicious

    My friend prefers no spice, can this be accommodated?

    Yes we can totally skip all additional spices in many dishes however our meat is seasoned very mildly with salt and little pepper could be black pepper or crushed red pepper .… Read more

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Biryani Tika Kabab

    Biryani Tika Kabab

    4.5
    (435 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$
    Halal
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    Fantastic Homestyle " Chicken Biyani - Bone - In ". Rice…read morePudding - A.k A. Rice Kheer w/ Almonds has a Special Touch !!! Always Tempting to Start with Dessert. " The Ayurvedic Way " !!!!!! Chef Owners are Awesome to work with !!!!!! A Clean Well Lit Space for Halal Indian-Pakistani Cuisine !!! Homemade Flavors Always !!!!!!

    Overall, would not recommend this place. I encountered very racist and bigoted treatment here…read more I placed an online order last night and went by for the pick up. When I approached the front counter, the lady present was very standoffish with me. I informed her of why I was there and she asked my name for the order. Upon giving her my name she then glared at me and literally asked me to recite my entire order lol! I showed her my online receipt in which she then insisted I still tell her my order. She brushed away my receipt and let another customer cut in front of me. Interestingly, the customer told her his name and she retrieved his order with no issue and was very friendly with him. To note, I was the only Black person present at that time. When I inquired as to why that customer wasn't asked to recite his entire order, she grinned and said that he's a "regular" and that I was "new." She went on to let a few other customers cut in front of me. I then asked for my money back in which she refused to return. Even when I asked for the manager, she said he was very busy. I made several requests for this resulting in her saying no and refusing to return my money. I then noted to her I'm calling the authorities in which I did. Furthermore, while servicing some of the other patrons, she would speak in another language with them while they looked at me and start laughing and staring me down. Eventually, the manager came out. He presented himself professionally and upon explaining what occurred he apologized and said it was unacceptable. He even offered me a drink with my meal and asked that I please accept the order instead and wanted to make things right. I took him at face value and said fine. While the situation was remedied, I definitely will not be returning to this restaurant. I researched some of the other reviews and came across several where other Black patrons have had similar racially motivated experiences here. That tells me there's a common practice of racism here. I refuse to support a business where this kind of behavior is tolerated. I have zero tolerance for bigots of any kind. Overall, the experience was a waste of my time and very dehumanizing. To hate someone you don't even know simply because of their skin pigmentation and ethnicity is irrational at best and bad for business especially in a place like Oakland where it's multicultural. My advice would be to not support this establishment. I especially advise any Black patrons not to come here as they clearly have issue with anyone who is simply Black, despite not knowing them as a person. Don't give your money, nor your valuable time, to hateful individuals who dehumanize others. All in all, this place gets a thumbs down.

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    Biryani Tika Kabab
    Biryani Tika Kabab
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    Gold Palm

    Gold Palm

    4.4
    (51 reviews)
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    Great atmosphere. The bar is nice and long. Lots of tables and space, also…read more Service was good.... Having their burger, which is new to the menu. Outstanding - great flavor. Cooked perfectly. The fries with their in house ketchup - so good. Cocktails are perfectly amazing, Had me an Adult Happy Meal. So good. Cheers.

    The ex-Palmetto / Flora space is now a cute, friendly space for casual cocktails and Pakistani…read moreinspired bites. I've been here a couple times (once for food, and once for drinks) and both times have been charmed by the friendly bartenders (shout out to Haya!) and the cheerful vibe. Don't be intimidated by the exotic sounding food. I wasn't sure if I would like it, but everything was delicious and not too overpowering. We had daal, samosa, and rice bowl. I unfortunately failed to take pics, but the dishes were all so cute and pretty! The cocktails are excellent as well. (Side note: My friends were really impressed with the flattering lighting in the bathrooms here. If you need an ego boost or a nice selfie, take a peek!) After drinks at Gold Palm, we went to their speakeasy, Moon Glow. Entry is through the left side of the bar, in what was formerly Fauna. It was a little too dark and narrow for my taste, but some people might like the small club vibe. Their drink, Clover Club, was my fave. I'm so glad the people of Bar Shiru revived this beautiful Uptown space. Will def come back!

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    Pakwan Restaurant - 16th Street

    Pakwan Restaurant - 16th Street

    4.0
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    With so many choices in the mission this standout for Pakistani food draws crowds for a reason…read more Upon entering, que up to the register and place your order. Tonight's selections were Lamb Biryani, Chicken Tikka Masala, and samosas. Once issued you buzzer, spin around to collect beverages, sauces, plates and silverware. Find a seat till the buzzer does its thing. Our food was prepped within 5 minutes and piping hot. The volume of food was amazing for the cost. The lamb was large pieces in a mix of basmati rice, herbs, spices and perfectly tender. The heat from this dish alone didn't require much. Samosas were serviceable and could stand more crispiness. The garbanzos were flavorful and tender. I'm

    Dreamt of this place since 5 years ago when we last visited and so happy to say that it didn't…read moredisappoint! We loved the lamb biryani and lamb chops just as we remembered. Tried the balti chicken this time and it was just ok. It could improve on service..while waiting for our food we wanted to order more and had asked the guy working there (packing all the food) if it would be a long wait to add 1 more thing and he just said they're too busy and can't....mind you there was an hour still before closing almost so this was a little disappointing. However, their food is always delicious and packed with meat! The lamb biryani is easily shareable between 3-4 hungry adults. Can't wait to return back!

    Photos
    Dining area
    Dining area
    Seekh Kabab, Tandoori Chicken Leg (1 Piece), Saag Paneer, Garlic Nan, Plain Rice
    Seekh Kabab, Tandoori Chicken Leg (1 Piece), Saag Paneer, Garlic Nan, Plain Rice
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    Al-Maida Pakistani Restaurant

    Al-Maida Pakistani Restaurant

    4.5
    (110 reviews)
    2.4 mi

    Love Pakistani Halal spot Al-Maida…read more Tucked in residential area of North Oakland, I usually get some takeout if I'm feeling like I need some hearty and warm curries or Oakland's best naan. I really like their lamb curry and garlic naan. I've also had their falafel wrap which was tasty, but naan by itself is elite. It's like as big as a plate placemat. HUGE. Curry is so flavorful, can't go wrong with any protein or any base. You can call to order. LOVE the lil market as well. You can get delicious treats like saffron ice cream and non-Israeli dates. I tried Ajwa dates for the first time here and they're my favorite type of dates now. Way less sweet than Medjool and much better for those who need to control their blood sugars. Shoutout to the chef and the sweet man who's always washing endless silverware. You guys are the goats, serving the community while fasting during Ramadan! Shop local, support small biz, protect our Muslim communities. Al-Maida is an Oakland gem.

    I love a place where I have something to do while waiting for my food. I walked in and put in my…read moreorder with the grandson/grandfather duo behind the counter. The grandson was super quick to let me know that the garlic naan was the go-to which I highly appreciated and listened to his sage advice with no regrets. Understandably with just the two of them, the food didn't come super quick. But I got to walk around the aisles and explore all the different foods and ingredients they sold. They also have a huuuge frozen dessert selection which was enticing but I will come back for that another day. The food came out fresh and piping hot. I devoured it in the car and it was all delicious, wonderfully seasoned and so so filling.

    Photos
    Lunch
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    Lamb Kabab. $8.99. Seasoned. Tendered. And not gamey. It comes with salad and olives as you see in the pic.
    Lamb Kabab. $8.99. Seasoned. Tendered. And not gamey. It comes with salad and olives as you see in the pic.
    Chicken Tikka Masala. $7.99. I had.it with naan. Tasted spicy. Just the way I like it. One naan would fill you up.

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    Chicken Tikka Masala. $7.99. I had.it with naan. Tasted spicy. Just the way I like it. One naan would fill you up.
    Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

    Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

    4.8
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    7.2 mi
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    If you're looking for authentic Pakistani & Indian food that tastes exactly like home, this place…read moreis an absolute MASHALLAH. This is not just a restauran - it is an experience filled with hospitality and the comforting feeling of being with family. Mr. Waqar & Mrs. Rabia are most humble people you will ever meet. From the moment you walk in, they welcome you with such sincerity and affection that you instantly feel at home. Mrs. Rabia has a remarkable way of making every guest feel special. She treats everyone with the same care & love a mother would show her own children. The food is outstanding, with generous portions and authentic flavors that transport you straight back to Pakistan/India. For breakfast lovers, the Halwa Puri with cholay is among the best I have had (available any time of the day, 7 days a week, is a huge bonus. The homemade parathas remind me of my mother's cooking, my absolute favorite & something I crave regularly. Chicken Biryani with Shami Kabab bring back memories of home with every bite. The Chapli Kabab paired with fresh paratha is simply irresistible-I can never get enough of it. The Beef Haleem is rich, authentic, & prepared exactly the way it should be. The Lamb Shank served with biryani rice is another exceptional dish that showcases the quality and authenticity of their cooking. Our first visit was only a month ago & since then we have already returned around 10 times. That alone speaks volumes. If you want delicious food, authentic flavors, generous portions, and hospitality that makes you feel like family, this place is a must-visit. Highly recommended.

    This is more like 3.5 star…read more Was at an event near by, found this place on yelp and decided to try it out. There was maybe one other customer when we reached and I guess that helped with getting the food quicker. I think , most of their curries / entrees are pre made . They also mentioned that they use frozen naans ( probably the ones sold at Indian stores ) but make the parathas fresh. Which was true. It came out piping hot and it's huge in size. We decided to get 2 different combos , so as to try more options. Got Paneer tikka masala, chana masala, palak paneer and daal makhani. The Daal makhani was not as creamy / buttery as it's supposed to be. All tasted decent , and on the milder side I would say. I feel all of them could have used a little more salt. It's reasonably priced . They also had back patio kind of area, which would be nice on a warm day.

    Photos
    Menu is very clear
    Menu is very clear
    Garlic Naan
    Garlic Naan
    Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

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    Desilicious - halal - Updated July 2026

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