Sigdi, which is a kind of stove similar to a mangal or brazier indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, is an Indian restaurant franchise specialising in North Indian and Mughlai cuisine. There are two outlets in Dubai, one in Al Nahda and the one I visited opposite the Karama Post Office and Dubai Central Laboratory. Walk in and everything from its heavy-set, period looking front door and the uniforms worn by the doorman and staff to the dark wood furniture used throughout the interior screams old school. It reminded me so much of the way things in Dubai used to be.
A view from the street 
Interior 
Interior 
This is the smiley doorman (who took off his mask for this photo)
And because it reminded me of old Dubai, we started our meal with a fresh lime soda. We then followed the recommendation of our waiter and ordered the Chef’s Special Platter which included kebabs so soft they raised suspicion. For our mains we ordered the signature Mutton Maharaja, Bhindi Do Piyaza, Dal Bukhara and a Jeera Rice. All were delicious, especially the mutton which was like a Chicken Tikka Masala with um, mutton. We ended our meal with a couple of ultra-sweet Gulab Jamun and some Gajar Halwa – yum.
Dal Bukhara 
Chef’s Special Platter 
Masala Chaas 
Mutton Maharaja 
Jeera Rice 
Bhindi Do Piyaza 
Ghajar Halwa
If Sigdi had a weakness it was that some of the staff were simply not trained properly nor could they speak (or understand) English. Responsibility for everything fell to the head waiter who, try as he did, couldn’t be in two places at the same time. Wrapping up this review I ask myself, warm and fuzzy as the nostalgia of Sigdi made me feel, is it up there with neighbours Delhi Darbar, Jaffar Bhai or even Sthan? It’s good but not that good, no. I cannot see myself choosing it over any of the more established players. That said, I still think it’s got potential and is worth a try.
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Xerxes physically dines at, or orders from, each and every venue he reviews. He pays in full for whatever he and his companions eat, drink, take away or occasionally throw at each other. Xerxes accepts no money, gifts, discounts or free meals in return for reviews or favouritism. What you have read was NOT influenced in any way by the venue. Join me on Instagram @ravenousxerxes or email me on xerxes@dellara.com.