A Michelin-Bib-recognized South Asian restaurant is about to open in downtown Santa Monica!
Already Michelin-Bib-recognized in Fullerton, Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen is bringing its award-winning Pakistani and Indian cuisine to the west side. Chef and Partner Imran Ali Mookhi, who previously worked as the head chef of the Indian restaurant Tamarind of London, is bringing his “authentic South Asian flavors with modern culinary techniques and artistic presentation” to the neighborhood, according to a press release.
“Guests can expect a 100% halal menu with signature dishes including Butter Chicken, Nihari, Dum Biryani, Lamb Chops, and elevated South Asian street food, complemented by an innovative menu of handcrafted alcohol-free mocktails.”
The original Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen opened in 2020 and became the first-ever Michelin-recognized Pakistani restaurant in Southern California in 2021, and earned the Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction every following year since opening.
“We’re excited to introduce Khan Saab to Santa Monica and become part of the bustling Westside dining community,” said Chef Mookhi. “Our goal has always been to showcase the richness and diversity of Pakistani and Indian cuisine through exceptional ingredients, thoughtful technique, and genuine hospitality, and we can’t wait to share the flavors and traditions of our culture that have earned Khan Saab recognition throughout Southern California.”
The menu is described as shareable and street-inspired.
- Pani Puri
- Goat Cheese Kulcha with butter tomato sauce
- Sloppy Khan, a playful riff on the classic Sloppy Joe, filled with keema pav grass-fed wagyu beef.
- Khan Biryani, wok-tossed Peshawari Chicken Karahi
- Smoked Beef Kabob prepared with charcoal-smoked top sirloin, yogurt, garlic, shallots, and mustard oil;
- Apricot Curry Salmon, tandoori grilled
- Lamb Rogan Josh
- Butter Chicken
- Nihari
- Bhel Puri with pomegranate and sesame leaf
- Dal Lala Musa
- Shahi Gulab Jamun, Rasmalai Milk Cake infused with rose petal milk and peach coulis
- Rasmalai Knafeh, phyllo-crusted, filled with savory-sweet cheese.
The restaurant is currently in its soft opening phase and is set to open to the public on Thursday, July 16, 2025.
📍 Khan Saab Desi Craft Kitchen, 115 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
