Caravan Kebab

I've had two experiences with this restaurant. One was a couple years ago: a Covid-era take out which we enjoyed; and another one more recently when we tried their weekend buffet. The buffet is admittedly small, and seems pricey, but what they lack in variety they make up in quality. Still a bit pricing though when compared to other South Asian/Indian buffets around town. Chef Shahzad was extremely personable and a pleasure to talk to. Their daal was just like how my "Punjabi" grandma would make it - probably better with the fresh taste of tadka, the chickpeas and saag on the buffet were spectacular although a bit lower on spice level for me but understandable since the restaurant isn't catering to an inherently Indian clientele. My son loved the samosas and chicken (forget if it was chicken tikka or butter chicken). The Mediterranean salad was refreshing - perfect way to start the meal. I took away one star for the bread (which lacked effort), lack of bowls to serve some of the food (this kinda food needs more than just a flat plate) and the price to variety ratio, but then added back 1/2 star for the Kashmiri chai, the decor and cleanliness! I'd go here again! A solid 4.5 stars in my book.

- Oscar Aviator -

We are so glad that we tried this place out! The environment is so cozy and exotic. The price was reasonable, compared to other similar restaurants. Good portion size! Most importantly, very good food! The garlic naan was the best I’ve ever had! Thinner and crispier than most of the other places’, it smelled so wonderful garlicky when it arrived. We ordered Lamb Shish Kebab, which was so juicy and tender. We fought over the bell peppers of the vegetables served with it… because it was cooked so perfectly, sweet and crispy. We normally won’t order Tikka Masala with chicken, because the chicken chunks most likely would be tough. The one at Caravan’s tho, was not as much of a red hue as we had from the other restaurants, however, the spice and texture was so intriguingly amazing; the chicken bites were so tender that it was incredible. It almost like a different presentation of the same dish, in a very good way. The Moroccan Lamb Tagine which turned out to be my favorite. The lamb pieces, again, juicy tenderness; the vegetable creates a good harmony and the spices blended in perfectly. Love. It also serves with couscous that I ate a big chunk before I mixed them in the dish. We didn’t get any free on the house dessert as the website states; and the server didn’t warn us about possibly too much food (I appreciate those who did). We did see many of the different dishes from different cuisines being included in the menu, such as borscht, beef stroganoff, polish dumplings, kebab, curry. Their website states that the chef’s menu is a “collection memories, experience, and flavor.” How amazing. Just as the Japanese would say, while eating here, we could picture the chef’s vivid memories of making the dish at where the cuisine was originally from. I appreciate it.

- rainbow3ododo -

The food is extremely flavorful and not over seasoned - they definitely use quality ingredients. The atmosphere and service is excellent as well; my wife and I were just saying how it feels like we are on vacation every time we dine here. It almost feels like we’re personal guests in the owners’ home - they are very friendly to chat with. Anyone that loves flavorful food and just wants to feel like they are stepping out of Washington for an hour or two, then I highly encourage you to try the Caravan Kebab!! Oh, and for the quality of food, the prices are very reasonable… enjoy!

- Trevor Wagner -

I went here for dinner they open at 5pm for dinner. The staff was amazing, attentive, not pushy, relaxed and happy. They gave me great recommendations for my dining choices I was trying to decide between two appetizers and was guided to get the beans(fantastic choice), at the waiters recommendation I chose the garlic naan( fresh and hot directly out of the oven) and the kebab combo entree was fantastic. All great recommendations. On the kebab combo the beef(ground) had a phenomenal flavor with just a little heat to it.... I highly recommend this place. Don't miss this gem.

- Ricky David -

Intimate and beautiful surroundings. I just love the textures and colors of the tapestries. The food was delicious, I ate my leftovers as soon as I got home. Wonderful flavors. And they are so kind and attentive, very welcoming.

- Carolina Mendoza -

It's been a long time since my mom and I have been able to have food that tasted like it did when we both were little This is a cozy place that feels loved and lived in, and it looks just like my grandparents house did when I was growing up I'm so so happy to have a place that has all my favorite foods I ate all the time growing up that I only get when I cook them myself You can taste the care and thought that goes into the menu Thank you for an amazing childhood meal, my mom hasn't been that happy about a meal since her mother stopped cooking, and that's worth more than anything

- Anthony Void -

Such a great spot and neighborhoods best kept secret! Looking for a quiet and delicious spot for date night or to take the family? This is the spot. The food is incredible and the hospitality is unmatched. They are the only spot like this that doesn’t use things like DoorDash or Ubereats because they focus on this in restaurant ambience…we felt so welcomed and definitely a place that wil not rush you on your meal, they want you to hang out and connect over food. Unbelievable and we will be dining here often!

- Brittany Grosbusch -

I have been wanting to check this place out for a couple of months and I’m glad I finally made it! After a 300- mile ride Saturday we stopped here and was pleasantly surprised by the hosts’ hospitality first of all. They seem so genuine and kind. The decor gave a a beautiful middle eastern vibe and so was the music. Most importantly, everything we ordered was delicious and filling. We will sure be back.

- Char K -