Kashmir’s food culture is known for its warmth and simplicity, and a viral video from Dal Lake has once again highlighted the Valley’s unique culinary experiences. Shared by content creator Shahbaaz Zaman, the clip shows a kebab vendor preparing fresh food on a shikara boat, leaving food lovers across the internet mesmerised.
Kebabs cooked on a shikara
The video opens with the vendor introducing his menu while gently floating on Dal Lake. His offerings include mutton kebab, fish tikka, chicken tikka, paneer tikka and mushroom tikka—catering to both non-vegetarian and vegetarian visitors enjoying the lake’s serene setting.
According to the menu shown in the clip, fish tikka is priced at ₹600 for 20 pieces, chicken tikka at ₹550, paneer tikka at ₹450 and mushroom tikka at ₹400 for 20 pieces. Mutton tikka costs ₹700 for 20 pieces, while kebab plates are priced at ₹400 for chicken and ₹500 for mutton.
Freshly grilled in the freezing cold
Shahbaaz Zaman orders mutton kebab, after which the vendor begins cooking right on the boat. He places the kebabs on skewers, grills them over hot charcoal in a compact tandoor-style oven and brushes them with butter as they sizzle. Once cooked, the kebabs are cut into bite-sized pieces and served with sliced onions and four varieties of chutney.
The caption on the video reads: “Freshly made mutton kebabs in freezing cold Dal Lake of Kashmir. Welcoming Chillai Kalan 2026.”
Internet reacts with praise
The clip quickly drew admiration online. Viewers flooded the comments with praise, calling the food “too good” and “the best”. One user noted that the fish dishes are equally delicious, while another said simply watching the video was satisfying.
Locals and visitors alike welcomed the spotlight on Kashmir’s hospitality, with one comment reading, “It’s always a pleasure to welcome food content creators from outside. Welcome to Kashmir.”
A taste of Kashmir’s soul
Floating food vendors, shikara kitchens and calm waters make Dal Lake dining an experience unlike any other. The viral video has not only whetted appetites but also showcased the Valley’s rich food traditions—simple, honest and deeply comforting.