Dining: Shanik offers sophisticated Indian cuisine in South Lake Union.
By Allison Austin Scheff September 20, 2013
This article originally appeared in the October 2013 issue of Seattle magazine.
As you enter Shanik, a steaming cup of chai tea is offered, a first hint of the graciousness of the service at the citys most anticipated restaurant opening this year. Meeru Dhalwala, co-owner with her husband, Vikram Vij, of the illustrious Vijs in Vancouver, British Columbia, has created a sophisticated setting for her enchanting curries and layered flavors. This is Indian food unlike any weve had before, quietly thrumming with heat and paired with silky smooth basmati rice scented with cumin seed and sweet, soft onions. One moment youll ride the high notes of a saffron-infused tamarind curry bathing tender grilled chicken ($21); in another, youll taste again and again the turmeric-laced coconut sauce beneath gamey lamb chop popsicles ($27), trying to discern each of its elusive pleasure points. Youll swoon over the saag paneer (spinach with fresh cheese, $24). Make space for a bite of gulab jamun ($7), which are like freshly fried doughnuts that arrive at the table cloaked in a warm cardamom syrup. Its early yet, but Shanik is quite seductive so far. Lunch takeout MondayFriday, dinner MondaySaturday. South Lake Union, 500 Terry Ave. N; 206.623.3576; shanikrestaurant.com