Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Karahi House

    4.5 (64 reviews)
    Open 11:30 am - 11:30 pm

    Order Karahi House Takeout or Delivery

    Karahi House Photos

    Business Info

    KARAHI HOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Outdoor seating
    Good for groups

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Karahi House

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Chicken Biryani
    Matty E.

    I'll be honest, it was kind of a confusing experience trying to order here, but however we eventually managed to get our food -- it was delicious. The place clearly focuses on its turbo take-out economy, with delivery pickup constantly coming in and out of this warm hole-in-the-wall. We ordered at the front and were seated, but only received half of our order; when we went up to pay at the end, they were confused and initially refused payment. We finally managed to pay for the dishes we got before heading out. If I were in a bad mood I probably would have been frustrated, but I actually found it kinda charming. The food doesn't pretend to be anything other than what it is, and I liked that. Lots of spice, and just as much oil. But there's nothing bland in the great flavors of the chicken in both the biryani and the karahi.

    Lunch buffet. $21.
    John N.

    Good value Indian buffet, with limited meats. The lunch buffet cost $21, and is served banquet style. The food was good, but lacking a bit in variety. The standout was the goat, which was tender and moist, and served in a tasty tomato-based sauce. The tandoori chicken was ok, a tad dry. The naan left something to be desired. I also didn't love their saag, which was a bit on the watery side. This place is good if you are in the area and looking for a tasty meal, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it.

    Chicken Tikka Masala
    Annie L.

    The food at Karahi House is delicious, hot and fresh! Ordered take out of the chicken tikka masala, tandoori fish, black lentils curry and chicken tandoori. Does not come with rice and extra $3.11 for a plate of rice. All the dishes were well packaged and even a little warm still from driving almost 2 hours home. I deducted a star because I didn't like that there was TONS of bones in the fish. It was very difficult to eat, boneless would have been preferred.

    Buffet
    Joe B.

    Came here for lunch buffet so that is only thing I am reviewing. I think this was a good buffet for the price and included the a few chicken dishes, and several vegetarian selections along with a green salad mix that you could put together. I do like a buffet that tries not to do too many things but just a good 8 or 10 done well. I did not find anything really spicy on buffet so if you are looking for that look elsewhere. If I lived here or stayed here again I would be back.

    Olivier G.

    Karahi House is a Pakistani restaurant that opened a few months ago on Polk Street. They serve karahi dishes, tandoori items, biryanis, and some vegetarian options. The waiter mentioned they might add nihari to the menu in the near future. The restaurant also has a small terrace on the street side. Given the restaurant's name, I decided to try their chicken karahi, a very popular dish in Pakistan. I was pleasantly surprised that the dish was served directly in a karahi (a type of Indo-Pakistani iron wok). The chicken was perfectly cooked, and the thick gravy had subtle and flavorful spices. Overall, it was a delightful experience at Karahi House.

    Chicken wrap

    The best Pakistani / Indian food in San Francisco. Highly recommend the lamb karahi and chicken biryani. The specials are also great, they have amazing wraps and often feature really unique regional dishes that are hard to find elsewhere in the Bay Area. Very clean restaurant and the staff is very kind and helpful.

    saag paneer
    Leila K.

    I thoroughly enjoyed everything I ordered! The quality of the food was really good - presentation and taste were amazing. great place to eat, especially if you want something halal. saag paneer - super creamy and nice, perfectly salted and seasoned, but not too 'heavy' tasting garlic naan - soft while maintaining a nice slight crisp at the bottom chicken seekh kabab karahi - probably my fav dish of the dinner, perfectly seasoned!! the spices are so good. the chicken meat was nice and tender, pairing perfectly with the sauce service was fast and always welcomed the helping. my favorite thing about this place is the free chai with your meal! would definitely come back in the future.

    Som S.

    Was craving some falooda and this place did not disappoint. Might be the best falooda I've had in my life, will definitely be back to try main courses.

    Joseline M.

    What a great new spot on Polk street. The restaurant has been open for a few months now and I'm glad I finally got to try it. The inside is very modern and new! You can seat inside but also have the option of seating on their patio. We were greeted by a very nice man that guided us to a table and served us water immediately. We did ask for recommendations on what to eat but ultimately went with something we were familiar with. Food came out very fast and it was warm, it smelled amazing and portions were perfect for 2. The lamb karahi was one of the best I've ever had! The lamb was tender, the curry was full of flavor and well balanced, peppers were not overcooked and it had the right amount of fresh herbs. We found ourselves sitting in complete silence and finishing our meal in minutes from how good it was. This place hasn't received the hype it definitely deserves. I hope to come back soon and try other yummy items

    the Actual menue

    the food was cold and not cooked enough, slowe service, price discrepancy at the register vs the menue. i want my money back. If really want a bad service and dishonest people, overcharged prices, tben, go there. otherwise avoid this place by all means.

    I took the suggestion from one of the reviewers and ordered the lamb kebab karahi, garlic naan, and rice. The food arrived hot within 15 minutes of ordering. The portion size of the entree is more than enough for one person/meal and taste scrumptious. I could finish the whole serving of rice and naan mixed with just the sauce. And the garlic naan is another hit by itself. I went on a Saturday about midnight and still had few customers i am pleased it was open and was sat. the place was bright and spartan. The restroom was clean.

    Lamb Karahi
    Renny T.

    It was late and i was back from a trip and starving! Karahi House saved my night! Because, hey they are OPEN LATE! I wanted rice, meat and vegetables so i ordered their Lamb Karahi which came out soooo huge in a hot stone pot. I absolutely loved it. It tasted amazing and i am sorry i ate the whole thing all on my own and even forgot to take a picture of it. My mouth is watering already just by thinking about the dish. People there are friendly. Atmosphere is nice and calm. Clean and organized. They have outdoor seating also. Everything was exceptional! I wanna try their desserts too. Lastly, this place totally deserves to be packed and busy! Why aren't you guys coming? Come try!!!

    Fish Karahi

    See all

    26 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 days ago

    The cuisine is excellent. I am certain that anyone who appreciates this type of food will leave satisfied, full, and happy.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Haleh N.
    2
    107
    41

    2 months ago

    It was not very clean in there and the food was ok! It's a walk up place and service was not great.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joe B.
    208
    275
    3203

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Som S.
    248
    34
    12

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John W.
    1
    33
    20

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 3
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Noor K.
    0
    17
    30

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Food was not good at all!! I'm shocked this place is 4 stars.. if you're desi please avoid this place it's not good at all

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Cat L.
    266
    106
    513

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Always Friendly staff, clean and well prepared diverse meals, I like their buffet lunch, also nice menu to choose from.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    No frills Indian food. Food was excellent. Service was a little iffy. But worth it for food.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Karahi House Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Karahi House

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Pakistani 4,026 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Shalimar

    Shalimar

    3.9
    (1.6k reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    The best Indian food in the world. Seriously my first experience was still the best and maybe I'm…read morebiased because this is where I initially first tried it well over 23 years ago, but have never been able to find better anywhere else. I'm grateful for the good friend who showed me the way, and even more grateful it's still here after all these years. And no matter where I go, it all the other places I try.. this place is still the absolute best.

    Ordered in via a delivery app after a friend who lived here years ago recommended it to me. Not…read moresure if it was an off day or they've gone downhill, but this was fairly disappointing. Murgh Tikka Lahori (breast)- this was a surprisingly large amount of food for the price. Didn't have much complaint on this and would get again. Although I might go for the boneless option next time Chicken Kofta- the gravy was incredibly oily (I had to use a paper towel to soak up the thick layer on top. The kofta itself was soft, but didn't have super strong flavor. Chicken Jalfrezi- the flavor for this was decent, but once again super oily. I also had to use a paper towel to soak up the oil. I had gotten this as it sounded healthier- just stir fried chicken, veggies, tomato sauce, and spices- but the oil really over powered here. Shalimar Chawal- basic rice with some spices/flavor. For the price it was good. I'd be open to trying again in the future, but really hoping it's not as oily next time.

    Photos
    Shalimar
    Chicken oven
    Chicken oven
    20. Chicken Tikka Masala 13. Garlic Naan Chicken bit Chicken tandoori

    See all

    20. Chicken Tikka Masala 13. Garlic Naan Chicken bit Chicken tandoori
    Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

    Mashaallah Halal Pakistani Food Restaurant

    4.8
    (339 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    This is my 4th time here. I come to SFO for work and this is a great place for food made with…read more pride and love! The owners are always working and offers great suggestions. She was right!!! I love the lamb shank! Falls off the bone with fantastic flavors! This place is very reasonable and service is always great. The food is not sitting under a heat lamp so be patient. The taste is fresh and delicious.

    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.

    Photos
    Comfortable indoor dining for family and friends.
    Comfortable indoor dining for family and friends.
    Fresh Chicken Boti being prepared in the traditional tandoor at MashaAllah Halal Food in San Francisco.
    Fresh Chicken Boti being prepared in the traditional tandoor at MashaAllah Halal Food in San Francisco.
    A warm petio of Mashaallah halal Food to enjoy authentic halal cuisine. It's located in 315 5th street San Francisco.

    See all

    A warm petio of Mashaallah halal Food to enjoy authentic halal cuisine. It's located in 315 5th street San Francisco.
    Chutney

    Chutney

    3.7
    (1.4k reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    This was my first time ordering here and I liked what I got…read more I ordered the chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, and white rice. I forgot to mention the spice level for the curry in my DoorDash order, but it turned out that it was a gentle heat and I enjoyed it. The curry was flavorful and I liked that it was on the creamier side. It went so well with the rice. There were about six pieces of chicken, which is enough for me. I know that this curry is one of the more affordable options on that block, so I think the amount was good for the price listed on DoorDash. It's probably a much better deal if you order in person. The garlic naan is huge and one piece can be good for two people... maybe four people if they want a quarter. But I don't think I a quarter is enough lol. I ate the whole thing. Though I love curries with rice, I think I'll just get the naan next time since it's so big. Since I got this to go, I can't comment on the ambiance. My order was placed around 4pm and I got it within 20mins. I'd order from here again to try another entree or biryani.

    Chutney was overhyped to me by a friend of mine. Decided to give it a try but it was not worth it…read morewhen there are spots like Pakwan in the city with easier parking and not as bad of an area. Went there and there was a parking spot on the block of chutney but was held by an orange cone. We asked the restaurant there if we are allowed to park and they said they know nothing about it and to go ahead. So we moved the cone and parked then some lady took the cone and started mouthing off saying her friend was suppose to park there and she walked the cone to the other side. Then you see her friend come up with her car and idk what they were trying to do. Friend just kept going forward then reversing and repeating every few mins. Thought they were going to start drama with us or key the car once we left so we waited for a bit. Ended up just going into Chutney and sat at the window to keep an eye on the car. Same car was doing the same shenanigans going forward and reversing for some reason. Anyway, that was a long rant that had nothing to do with Chutney. Don't really have anything good to say. Gentleman that sat us down was nice. Gave us our menus and asked us to order at counter when we were ready. We ordered plain and paneer naan, tandoori chicken leg, chicken biryani, seekth kebab, chicken jal frazi, chicken tikki masala, chicken boti and the lamb chops. Best thing was the paneer naan. Cheese pull was insane and very flavorful. Very delightful when fresh hot. Chicken boti and lamb chops were extremely dry and overcooked. The lamb chops also was very salty and I'm usually more prone to saltiness. Chicken Jal Frazi was like a chicken curry with vegetables. This was probably the second best thing and went well with the naan. Chicken Biryani was kind of plain compared to somewhere like Pakwan and portion was pretty small compared to Pakwan. Tandoori leg wasn't as juicy as other places, it was also a bit dry. Seekth kebab was pretty firm but wasn't terrible. Their sauces (the green mint sauce and tamarind chutney) were a bit watery and not as flavorful as other restaurants I've tried. Price wise - they're not terrible. Most items were under $15 and below besides the lamb chops. But for some reason, the same guy that sat us down, ran the register and he charged us $1 more on every single item besides the sodas so we didn't even bother tipping. And when we tried to ask one of the servers for an extra spoon after he served our food, he just kept walking as if he didn't hear us. I won't complain about that too much because maybe he simply just didn't hear us. But don't expect too much service here. Our food took about 30-40 mins to arrive too. Others that sat down after us, got their food first so not sure what's the deal with that. Was worth a try but probably won't come back.

    Photos
    Horrible quality food
    Horrible quality food
    Oily food
    Oily food
    Tandoori Chicken

    See all

    Tandoori Chicken
    Red Chilli

    Red Chilli

    4.2
    (605 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    Red Chilli is one of those hidden gems that reminds you why hole-in-the-wall restaurants are often…read morethe best places to eat. This cozy little spot in San Francisco may be small, but it delivers big on flavor, hospitality, and overall dining experience. We ordered the chicken curry, momo dumplings, and two regular naan. Everything was absolutely delicious. The chicken curry was rich, flavorful, and comforting with just the right balance of spices. The momo dumplings were a highlight of the meal--fresh, perfectly cooked, and packed with flavor. The naan was warm, soft, and the perfect accompaniment for soaking up every bit of the curry. The restaurant itself has a welcoming, cozy atmosphere with seating for around 10 to 15 people. It's the kind of place where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy a great meal without any fuss. The staff was incredibly friendly and provided excellent customer service throughout our visit, making us feel right at home. Parking can be a little challenging since you'll likely need to find street parking, but it's also easily accessible by bus and worth the effort to get there. If you're looking for authentic, delicious food in a charming neighborhood spot, Red Chilli is definitely worth a visit. Great food, great service, and a wonderful hole-in-the-wall ambiance. Highly recommend, and we'll definitely be back!

    We loved this hole in the wall place, right next to another hole in the wall which is also really…read moregood. This place I somehow managed to visit 3 times in a one week vacation. Food and people are top notch. Loved the various curries but my highlights was the tandoori chicken and momo. Where I was sitting I could see the cook (owner) making the kabobs and other food on a stick and throwing in that cool oven. Will be back when we visit again.

    Photos
    Inside, looks nice
    Inside, looks nice
    Chicken MoMo (10 PCS), Butter Chicken, Plain Basmati Rice ( 16 oz ) (06/2024)
    Chicken MoMo (10 PCS), Butter Chicken, Plain Basmati Rice ( 16 oz ) (06/2024)
    Biryani

    See all

    Biryani
    Halal Wings Plus

    Halal Wings Plus

    4.0
    (625 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    The first time I ever got high, I came here. It's a bit "daunting" since it is in the Tenderloin,…read morebut OH MY GOD. The food was delicious, their variety is very grand, staff is great, very good seating, and close to union square. 10/10 - sorry for the TMI lol.

    A few friends and I were walking around downtown and wanted a snack. We thought of this spot for…read morewings. Can't say no when it comes to wings! We've tried Halal Wings Plus a few times before throughout the years and it was always a pretty solid choice. The neighborhood is a bit shady, so beware of your surroundings and watch where you're stepping, cuz you don't wanna be stepping on sh** or b@rf! The menu is above the cashier, so you just order and pay up front and get the receipt with your order number. They'll call the number out when it's ready. I think there's roughly 8-10 tables, if you decide to dine in. ***OUR PICKS*** We ordered 20 wings with 2 flavors. LEMON PEPPER CHICKEN WINGS ~ lots of pepper flavor but the lemon did not shine. And the chicken meat inside didn't seem marinated and tasted bland. It probably would be better if they added lemon juice after it was cooked or had given us some lemons to squeeze over the chicken before we dug in. 3.5/5 MANGO HABANERO CHICKEN WINGS ~ the sauce was spicy and tangy sweet, but it doesn't seem like they marinate their wings. It's only the sauce that gives the chicken flavor. 3.5/5 The wings aren't at all crispy. And flavor was ok and could have been better. But what was off-putting was the smell of the wings after we boxed it up and took it home! It had this gamey chicken smell as if it was old chicken. At least none of us got sick, but I'll think twice about revisiting.

    Photos
    Cockroach
    Cockroach
    Slider w/ fries
    Slider w/ fries
    Halal Wings Plus

    See all

    Punjab Kabab House

    Punjab Kabab House

    3.7
    (364 reviews)
    0.7 mi
    $$

    Stopped in and got Curry lamb and butter chicken. Be aware the serving is large. Because I was…read morealone they sent my order out in to go boxes and I dined in and took my leftovers back to my hotel. The curry was delicious. I enjoyed the butter chicken it was exactly how i wanted it. Goat was good but a little too mild for my tastes. My pne disappointment was the naan was a little too bready for my liking. I like a flatter bread and this one was slightly too fluffy for my liking. The dinning room is typical of a casual dining area. I do like the self service area where plates and silverware are stored. This style of dining made it easier for me to eat there and take my leftovers back to my hotel. But great food overall.

    We visited this place back in 2016 or 17 while one of our trips to the city. It was a really cold…read moreday so we decided to eat something indoors and something spicy. Yelped for an Indian place and this showed up at walking distance so we walked upto it. Upon locating, we found it was on a busy street and had nice seating indoors. We went in and were seated promptly as it was around 1:30pm, which is not a busy time usually for lunch. We ordered chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, and biryani. Everything was great but we loved tikka masala and naan of all the items. They had a variety of appetizers and desserts but we just had big main course. Service was quick and servers were very attentive. Place was really clean so we enjoyed eating there. Highly recommended if you are in the neighboorhood and looking for a quick bite to eat.

    Photos
    Chef Special (Tikka Masala). Yum!
    Chef Special (Tikka Masala). Yum!
    Trying out
    Trying out
    Outside restaurant

    See all

    Outside restaurant

    Karahi House - pakistani - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...