From left: Avtar Singh, owner of Punjabi Shaan with Jagdish Ram, chef, and Hargopal Goyal, operating partner. waiting for confirmation on names from Joyce
When dining at Punjabi Shaan, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavours that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Punjab, Joyce Leung writes
Punjabi Shaan, is the newest addition to East Hamilton’s ever-changing culinary scene. This Indian restaurant, led by owner Avtar Singh, brings the rich flavours of Punjab to your plate. With a background deeply rooted in the restaurant industry and a strong desire to share his culinary heritage, Avtar Singh has created a dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.
Avtar’s passion for cooking is deeply ingrained in his family history. Avtar shares, “My maternal grandparents are all in the restaurant field, by owning restaurants in Germany and in India. They were my inspiration to start and learn cooking as I see them working in restaurants.”
Witnessing his grandparents’ dedication and hard work, he was inspired to follow in their footsteps. Avtar decided to pay tribute to his family’s legacy by opening his own restaurant, choosing the same name as his uncle’s establishment in Germany. With their support and guidance, he honed his skills and perfected his recipes, ready to embark on his culinary adventure.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
From left: Avtar Singh, owner of Punjabi Shaan with Jagdish Ram, chef, and Hargopal Goyal, operating partner. waiting for confirmation on names from Joyce
Joyce of Cooking
Punjabi Shaan began its journey as a catering and lunch box service in Brampton. Avtar’s delectable creations quickly gained popularity, earning him an enthusiastic response from his clients. Encouraged by the overwhelming demand, Avtar decided to take his business to the next level by opening a charming little restaurant in East Hamilton. This move allowed him to provide a cosy and inviting space for customers to savour his mouth-watering dishes, freshly prepared with love and authenticity.
When dining at Punjabi Shaan, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavours that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Punjab. While each dish on the menu is crafted with precision and care, Avtar has a soft spot for two particular favourites: Madras chicken and Chicken curry. These dishes boast tender and succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly marinated, and simmered in aromatic spices. Pair them with the ever-popular Garlic Naan (the best garlic naan I have tasted, might I add), and you have a combination that will leave your tastebuds dancing with joy.
But Punjabi Shaan’s offerings extend beyond these favourites. Drawing inspiration from Hakka cuisine, the restaurant also serves delectable Momos, Chilli Chicken, Chilli Paneer, and noodles prepared in the traditional Hakka style. As Punjabi Shaan continues to evolve, Avtar plans to introduce additional delights to the menu, such as Monchow Chicken Soup and an expanded range of tantalizing soups.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Here are some of the dishes I think you will love:
Tandoori chicken wings ($9.99/6PC) -Tender chicken wings marinated in a blend of aromatic spices.
Fried Momos ($10.99) — Fried dumplings filled with vegetables.
Vegetable Samosa ($1.75 per piece) — Puffed patties with potatoes, peas, and homemade spice blend.
Vegetarian Shahi Paneer from Punjabi Shaan.
Joyce of Cooking
Shahi Paneer ($12.99 for the smaller size) — A creamy tomato-based sauce flavoured with fenugreek, bell peppers, red onions, and tandoori spice. an all-time favourite (Vegetarian)
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Butter Chicken ($13.99 for the smaller size) — A creamy tomato-based sauce flavoured with fenugreek, bell peppers, red onions, and tandoori spice. an all-time favourite
Garlic Naan ($3.99) — Fine flour bread with coriander topping and butter and garlic on top
Hot Gulab Jamun ($4.99) — Freshly made dessert balls soaked in sugar syrup.
Freshly made garlic naan.
Joyce of Cooking
There are a number of desserts that are not listed on the menu, made fresh daily at the restaurant too, such as pink and orange Cham Cham. If you have not tried Cham Cham before, they look like éclairs but they are a spongy dessert made from traditional cheese (Paneer) dipped in a sweet syrup.
Beyond the mouth-watering food, Punjabi Shaan also prides itself on providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Staff are friendly and passionate about delivering exceptional service. The staff here takes care of every person that walks through their door. I witnessed them offering water and a sweet treat to delivery drivers coming in to pick up orders. The cosy ambience, adorned with traditional Indian decor, creates an immersive experience that celebrates the beauty of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage.
Pink Cham Cham dessert from Punjabi Shaan.
Joyce of Cooking
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
Punjabi Shaan is more than just a restaurant; it is a testament to Avtar’s passion for cooking and his commitment to sharing the flavours of Punjab with the community. Through his family’s legacy and his own culinary expertise, Avtar has created a dining experience that captures the essence of authentic Indian cuisine.
You can find Punjabi Shaan at 537 Main St. E, (near Wentworth) and they are currently open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. To see their full menu, check out their website here: https://punjabishaan.ca/ and don’t forget to give them a follow on social media here: https://www.instagram.com/punjabi_shaan1
is a food writer and blogger who lives in Hamilton. Find her teaching Asian cooking classes around the city when she is not dining out and trying all the delicious restaurants of Hamilton. Joyce will not write about any organizations she has a separate business relationship with. You can reach her at joyce@joyceofcooking.com
To join the conversation set a first and last name in your user profile.
Sign in or register for free to join the Conversation