It's not uncommon for people in Dhaka to have a hankering for different cuisines within the span of a single day. This rings particularly true according to Naser Hossain, co-owner of Banglish, who highlights the city's diverse culinary preferences. "Dhakaites often yearn for rice and Bengali delicacies for lunch, while opting for continental or pan-Asian fare come evening," he explains. And Banglish is there to meet those cravings head-on.
True to its name, Banglish offers both Bengali staples like various curries and bhortas to Asian favourites. From chicken teriyaki to katsu platters, they offer a variety that reflects Dhaka's evolving palate. Traditional favorites such as chicken achari, prawn masala, and aloo bhorta hold their own on the menu, ensuring there's something for everyone amidst the city's bustling culinary landscape.
Food
First we tried the chicken katsu platter. The Japanese-style breaded cutlets are crowned with melted mozzarella cheese. The breading boasted a distinct cheese flavor, a delightful departure from the norm.
Typically, katsu comes with tonkatsu sauce, a rich Japanese brown sauce. While the twist of mozzarella cheese could have been fun, we couldn't help but miss the thick, savory sauce.
Despite the unexpectedly juicy chicken, the katsu cutlets lacked the moisture and depth that sauce would have provided, leaving them somewhat dry. However, amidst the fried rice and garlic roasted potatoes, the garlic potatoes stole the show. Cooked in olive oil with a sprinkle of black pepper and salt, they were utterly irresistible, prompting us to devour them without restraint.
Next up was their teriyaki platter, featuring succulent teriyaki chicken, egg fried rice, and seasoned vegetables. The chicken teriyaki delivered the expected hint of sweetness balanced by savory notes, while the fried rice offered a satisfying carb fix. The veggies were impeccably seasoned, rounding out the dish nicely.
Transitioning to one of their deshi specialties, we indulged in the beef hyderabadi haleem—a slow-cooked stew featuring shredded meat and minced wheat, lentils, yogurt, and chopped nuts. This dish packed a punch with its intensely savory and spicy flavors, complemented by its thick, velvety texture. Served with parathas, each bite was a flavorful adventure, heightened by a squeeze of lime for an added kick.
Moving on to their rice dishes accompanied by mouth-watering bhortas and curries, we were impressed by the array of flavors. Their chicken achari curry, boasting pickling spices, was a standout, with its perfectly marinated chicken bathed in a thick, savory gravy.
The prawn masala, another Bengali classic, delighted with its rich coconut milk base and expertly balanced sweet and savory flavors. Paired with white rice, these dishes were a match made in culinary heaven, showcasing the best of Bengali cuisine.
Other offerings like egg korma, beef Punjabi, and fish bhorta further expanded our culinary journey, leaving us completely in love with Banglish's Bengali fare. With prices ranging from Tk230 to Tk450 for Bengali dishes and Tk500 to Tk700 for continental and Asian options, Banglish offers a culinary experience that's both accessible and unforgettable.
Ambience
Located in Gulshan 1, Banglish is unparalleled in its sense of familiarity and comfort. The restaurant's walls are adorned with Bengali inscriptions on one side and English inscriptions on the other, creating a theme that resonates throughout the establishment and their food too.
The classic charm is further enhanced by the matching white and light brown tables and chairs, as well as the floor.
Challenges
Since its opening in December 2023, the restaurant has chosen to prioritize research and development over heavy promotion, focusing instead on serving comforting meals to corporate workers. This decision has led them to rely predominantly on word-of-mouth advertising, resulting in a steady stream of returning customers.
Nazia Afrin, one of the co-owners, explained that their business flourished primarily through recommendations among local corporations seeking budget-friendly comfort food. "Our approach was to stay research-oriented and understand the preferences of corporate professionals in the area," she clarified, highlighting their deliberate avoidance of elaborate marketing campaigns.
Naser Hossain, another co-owner, noted that amidst the current economic uncertainties, people tend to be more cautious with their spending. "Given the prevailing economic climate and uncertain mindset, individuals are prioritizing savings," he observed. Consequently, the success of their venture isn't solely reliant on historical performance trends within Dhaka's restaurant industry.
"With the fluctuating mindset regarding dining out, it's challenging to gauge our performance based on past restaurant experiences," Hossain remarked, emphasizing the dynamic nature of consumer behavior.
Despite these challenges, the restaurant aims to achieve break-even status by June 2025, with Hossain expressing optimism about the potential for profitability by the following year. "We anticipate turning a profit by June of next year," he affirmed, underscoring their strategic outlook and determination to navigate the evolving landscape of the restaurant business in Dhaka.
Verdict
We highly recommend trying their haleem, chicken achari, and prawn masala—each dish offering a delightful blend of flavours. Additionally, the charming and comforting ambiance of Banglish adds to the overall experience.
Don't miss out on their chicken teriyaki either. With reasonable pricing, especially considering their location and the generous portions served, Banglish is a definite must-visit. If you haven't already, be sure to give it a try.