Tucked away in an inconspicuous corner of Tanjong Pagar at Murray Terrace, better known to foodies as the Food Alley, is Moti Mahal, Indian Resto and Wine Bar. Having specialized in North Indian cuisine since 1977, Moti Mahal is the sister outlet of Nirvana, a similar North Indian restaurant located at Fortuna Hotel. Literally translated to mean 'Pearl Palace', Moti Mahal is armed with a wealth of experience and has won numerous accolades.

• The Vibe
  This 30-years old restaurant is definitely no jaded little eatery in terms of dining ambience. Moti Mahal seats up to 45 and tastefully fuses Zen modernism with Indian touches. Top that off with avant-garde tableware and you will witness Moti Mahal's ingenious harmony of the edgy modernist and traditional Indian styles. If you prefer al fresco dining, Moti Mahal seats up to 15 in front of their restaurant. For the audio-sensitive, the restaurant generally plays soft Hindi music to build upon the North Indian experience, but occasionally trails off into upbeat pop tunes.
• The Food
  To placate the carnivores in us, try tandoor roasted masala lamb chops ($15) and murg lasani kebabs ($13). Moti Mahal's lamb chops are thoughtfully wrapped in aluminum foil on one end for some ferocious chomping. Pair it with mint sauce for a tamer take on the spicy meat. Murg lasani kebabs, or boneless chicken, are well marinated, spicy and tender.

  Fret not, if you are not quite the chili eater. The makhimali kebabs ($15), chicken marinated with cheese and zesty spices, are great for children and the chili-phobic. Otherwise, inform the restaurant of your preference – whether you like dishes mild, hot or extra spicy – and the kitchen will prepare your orders accordingly. Or have a glass of mango lasee ($4) at hand. This creamy concoction of mango pulp and fresh milk soothes a burning tongue after a spicy dish. Do note that it fills the tummy up pretty fast!

  It is main course galore at Moti Mahal with their array of chicken, fish, lamb and prawn dishes. For a taste of the sea, try their machi kali mirch ($15), a boneless fish dish that is fresh, succulent and convenient for children and adults alike. Hence, instead of picking out bones, I could savor my food, which made me a happy diner. Alternatively, choose the mirchi prawns ($17) which will please unsuspecting chilli fanatics. The tame looking prawns, cooked in a dry tangy sauce, leave a lingering heat in the throat and are superb when taken piping hot. However, once cold, the prawns turn sodden.

  If you are allergic to seafood, Moti Mahal offers a range of vegetarian, chicken and lamb dishes. Atkins dieters beware, though. The variety of naan , kulcha and roti available will tempt endlessly. Kashmiri naan ($3) is leavened bread featuring orange peel which is indeed refreshing. If you want something even lighter, order the roomali or ‘handkerchief' bread, a favourite of Moti Mahal regulars. This thin prata-like wheat bread is delightfully light!

  Round off the satisfying meal with a kulfie ($6), an Indian ice cream made from fresh Meiji milk at Moti Mahal. The creamy texture and milky aftertaste make this highly popular. Customers can choose from pistachio, coconut, apple or mango flavours. If you find ice cream too heavy, end off with a cup of Punjabi tea ($4), also known as masala tea. Moti Mahal's rendition is not too sharply flavoured, which some may find disappointing, but is nonetheless a good way to wash down the entire meal.

• The Service

  
  The service staffs at Moti Mahal are well mannered and efficient at clearing your table once you are done. Plates and cutlery are changed between the entrée and main course so customers are not bothered by overcrowded plates. Wine recommendations are also available for those who want to bring out the best in their food with some wine.

The SD Food Advisor's Take on Moti Mahal
I was impressed by the restaurant's décor and prices. For a place so well furnished and established, I expected to be shocked by the pricelist. Indeed, Moti Mahal proved otherwise as it is absolutely affordable. However, if you are seated near the kitchen, be prepared to tear whenever the kitchen doors swing open – the smoke stings. If you are prepared to roam a little to seek out the elusive Murray Terrace (which is actually hidden beside Maxwell House), Moti Mahal is both a visual and gastronomic treat worth the money.