Although biryani could probably be the first thing to come to mind about Pakistani and Indian cuisine, there is a lot more to discover out there. With a buffet, you can sample all of those things in one sitting by trying multiple dishes rather than eating the whole of one meal. If you are looking for an Indian buffet restaurant in San Jose, California, then Haji's Restaurant gives you a chance to taste the authentic flavors of Pakistani, Indian, and Afghan food.
Start With More Than Just Biryani
However, Biryani is definitely one of the dishes that should make it to the buffet table without being the sole item on your menu.
Chicken Biryani and Goat Biryani are two popular varieties of the Biryani rice dish, whereas Paneer Biryani, Vegan Biryani, and Vegetarian Biryani are some other varieties of Biryani that will suit different tastes.
After putting together the rice, you may go about looking for grilled items, curries, vegetarian foods, breads, and desserts.
Try Traditional Pakistani Starters
Before going on to the main dishes, you can start with some traditional favorites.
Firstly, Samosas are an easy choice for you. The combination of their filling with potatoes and the crunchy nature of the pastry is a good appetizer for you before proceeding to more complex dishes.
Alternatively, you can taste Aalo Tikki, which consists of a lentil and potato dish that is flavored with Haji’s spices.
For those who prefer meat dishes, you can choose Goat Shami Kebab, which includes boneless goat and lentils prepared in the form of a cutlet with house sauces.
Explore the BBQ Selection
If you always order a curry or biryani, here is an opportunity for you to experience Pakistani and Indian dishes from another angle at the BBQ section.
Here at Haji's Restaurant, there are many dishes available that include Chicken Tikka Leg & Thigh, Chicken Tikka Breast & Wing, Grilled Chicken Wings, and Boneless Grilled Chicken Tikka.
In addition, there are many kebabs, including Beef Seekh Kebab and Chicken Seekh Kebab.
For a different taste, you may enjoy Peshawari Chapli Kebab, which consists of beef, herbs, and spices.
The grilled food provides a smoky and savory touch to the meal and complements it with rice or naan.
Discover Rich Pakistani Curries
Another category of dishes in the buffet menu worth investigating is curries.
Butter Chicken is an excellent chicken dish with freshly prepared tomato paste and butter sauce. For those who love slowly-cooked meat, Nihari will be a good choice – it is a beef shank dish cooked for many hours using spices unique to it.
Chicken Tikka Masala is another type of chicken dish with roasted pieces of chicken breast combined with a spicy and creamy sauce.
There is also Haji's Shahi Chicken Qorma – a stewed chicken with bones, prepared using spices, yogurt, cream, or stock.
Haji's Shahi Goat Qorma and Spinach & Goat Curry are other options for those who prefer goat.
Instead of choosing one of them, order small portions of two dishes and taste the difference.
Don't Overlook Indian Vegetarian Dishes
The vegetarian menu can bring variety to your buffet plate, even though you eat meat most of the time.
If you want to taste Paneer, Palak Paneer or Paneer Tikka Masala will be a good choice for you.
If you love to eat chickpeas and lentils, then you can order Chana Masala / Choley, Chana Daal, Vegan Daal Makhni or Vegan Daal Masala.
Aalo Tarkari is also a very tasty dish that goes well with Poori.
Try Something Vegan
A buffet is also a good opportunity to explore plant-based South Asian dishes.
Haji's menu includes Vegan Tikka Masala, made with tofu, coconut yogurt, and coconut milk. Vegan Biryani combines steamed rice, tofu, and grilled vegetables with herbs and spices.
These choices show that a flavorful buffet doesn't have to depend entirely on meat or dairy.
Even if you aren't vegan, trying one plant-based dish alongside your usual favorites can add something new to your meal.
Pair Your Food With Fresh Bread
Rice may be the most obvious companion to a curry, but bread can completely change the experience.
Try Haji's Special Naan, Butter Naan, Garlic Naan, Lacha Paratha, Poori Paratha, Bhatura, Poori, or Roti with your chosen dishes.
Garlic Naan can complement rich curries, while Poori works especially well with Aalo Tarkari.
The idea is simple: use the bread to enjoy the sauces and flavors on your plate while adding another texture to the meal.
Make Room for Something Sweet
After exploring savory dishes, finish your meal with a traditional dessert.
Rice Pudding (Kheer) provides a creamy and comforting ending, while Suji Halwa offers a classic South Asian sweet option.
Dessert doesn't have to be an afterthought. It can be another opportunity to experience traditional flavors that you may not encounter in everyday dining.
Don't Forget the Drinks
The right drink can complement your meal and make the experience feel more complete.
Mango Lassi offers a creamy and refreshing choice, while Mint Lemonade provides a lighter option.
For something warm and traditional, Karak Chai is a familiar favorite that pairs well with South Asian food and relaxed gatherings.
If you're introducing someone to Pakistani and Indian cuisine for the first time, adding a traditional drink can make the experience even more memorable.
Why Buffets Are Perfect for Food Explorers
One of the biggest advantages of a buffet is the freedom to experiment.
When ordering from a regular menu, trying something unfamiliar can feel like a commitment. At a buffet, you can take a small portion, taste it, and decide whether you want more.
This makes buffet dining especially appealing to people who love discovering new flavors.
Families can also enjoy this flexibility. Parents can choose familiar dishes, children can select milder options, and adventurous guests can explore something completely new.
At Haji's Restaurant, we want every guest to feel comfortable exploring authentic Pakistani, Indian, and Afghan cuisine at their own pace.
Authenticity Makes the Experience Special
Trying new dishes is more meaningful when the food stays connected to its culinary roots.
Traditional spices, familiar cooking methods, and carefully prepared dishes allow guests to experience flavors that reflect Pakistani and Indian food traditions.
At Haji's Restaurant, our 100% Zabiha Halal commitment adds another layer of trust for Muslim families. Guests can focus on enjoying their food and spending time together without worrying about whether their meal meets their halal requirements.
Go Beyond Biryani on Your Next Visit
Biryani may be the dish that brings you to the buffet, but it doesn't have to be where your exploration ends.
From Samosas, Aalo Tikki, and Goat Shami Kebab to BBQ, rich curries, vegetarian dishes, naan, traditional desserts, and Karak Chai, there are plenty of ways to discover something new.
If you're looking for an Indian buffet across San Jose, visit Haji's Restaurant and go beyond biryani to discover the variety, tradition, and authentic flavors that make every buffet visit worth remembering.
