This place is a must try for those who work downtown. Located in the heart of Milwaukee, steps from Cathedral square Shah Jee is an ideal lunch spot. Great selection of a few, expertly made dishes - most being vegetarian. Fun fact, the chicken dish usually runs out first. It's a lunch place and only open for a few hours each day, M-F. Pro tip - come at 11am to ensure you get your top meal choice. Sometimes I come through at 1:30pm (they close at 2pm) and there's really not much left. The portions are decent for lunch - two "mains" like I usually get daal and paneer plus basmati rice. That will run you $14 (without tip). The spice level is always very nice meaning there's heat but it doesn't overwhelm (at least I don't think it does; with the caveot being I love spicy food). People rave about the green sauce but I think the meal is always tasty without it. There's seating available if you want to dine in but everything is served in styrofoam and easily can be taken to go. I'm glad this place exists downtown and provides an excellent alternative to Third Ward dining options / meat-centric cuisine. The only potential issue you'll have is parking. Street parking in Milwaukee can be a pain especially in the summer but metered parking close by during the week isn't too hard to find. Let's just say don't let it deter you from giving this place a try. read more

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A friend brought me here for lunch and I was thankful she did. We both had the #8. I enjoyed all the flavors, spices, and heat level. Prices were fair and it was cool to sit in the belly of an older building downtown. Service was fast and knowledgeable. Support this local gem in our city! read more

Throughly enjoyed stopping by this Milwaukee staple, the laid back lunchroom vibes were a perfect pick me up on a rainy afternoon. Lunch service had slowed down before I arrived so I got in and out in a flash. Food was very very solid, my only complaint was it could've had a bit more flavor, but I'm chalking most of that up to me being a bit later in their lunch service. Overall, I'd highly recommend stopping by, definitely worth taking a long lunch for. read more

Shah Jees - 1. Monday Combo Special - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This place is a hidden gem and I will fight anyone who says otherwise! I have never tried Indian or Pakistani Food prior to this and was super nervous that it would be too spicy for my typical taste buds. However my co worker convinced me to try this and I got the Tikka Masala and Chicken Masala, which comes with really well flavored jasmine rice. I'm now obessed with this. It has a touch of heat for me, but the flavors are so rich and unlike anything else I've made, that I find myself scooping up every last bite of sauce and rice. I'm sad that they don't deliver and they aren't open for lunch in addition to be located in a strange basement area, which is why I took it down a little in stars. However, it is amazing and I will go here for lunch on any work day possible. read more

Shah Jees - Lunch 2. Tuesday Combo Special - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

You know how they (whoever "they" are) say that hole-in-the-wall restaurants are usually the best? Well, Shah Jee's is a hole-in-the-GROUND restaurant. Yes, it's literally the basement level of a parking garage/office building. There is no signage, there is no warning. You literally have to know someone in order to find your way to this establishment. And hey, you know me! Very simple. Belly up to the bar, tell the guy that you have no idea what you're doing and you want today's special. Pay (CASH ONLY). Eat. And while you're eating, wonder how you never knew about this little diamond in the rough. Today was a chicken dish and something with chick peas (lentils were also available) and a huge pile of rice. Don't ask what it is. You don't need to know. Just eat the stuff and be very very happy. Some tips and suggestions: It is spicy. A little hot (maybe 6-7 on a scale of 1 to 10) and very flavorful. Expect it. It can be messy. Big pieces of meat in sauces are never a good thing for clumsy klutzes like me, so be prepared and wear something that will hide stains. It is ONLY open for lunch and they do sell out. So arrive early and be hungry. It is cash only. At the moment, $8 gets you lunch and a can/bottle. I would recommend getting it "to go" even if you're having it to stay. Larger portion! read more

Shah Jees - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Went here for lunch on a thursday afternoon. It was packed with hungry customers waiting in a long line. People behind the counter were doing their best to keep the line moving and replenishing the food as needed. It was my first time here. It was suggested by my colleagues as a popular place to get a quick fix for Indian food. The menu is simple. You get to choose any two curries along with basmati rice and a drink for $8. Vegetarian curries are great! But the chicken curry is a joke. Other than that, nothing much to complain. Food is served piping hot and the basmati rice is well cooked. Quantities are satisfying! You could get their fresh warm roti for an additional buck each. It is worth trying! I recommend spending the extra dollar. Roti is made with no oil and it still was surprisingly soft and flaky. read more

Great food for the cost. I have been here a few times and that's only because I didn't feel it was tasty enough to bring me back. I have to say though, they are very efficient and provide decently tasting food but I believe Pakistani food could be tastier. A lot of the times when I have eaten here, I have only went to fulfill my lunch hunger but not quite enjoyed their food as much. They are always busy which shows that they are popular and especially because there are so many offices in the area. They are open only during the lunch hour. They are sort of located underground so you have to walk down the stairs near plum lounge inside the building. They have paneer, chole/Chana (garbanzo beans), rice, chicken curry to name a few options. Definitely worth trying for a decently priced meal during lunch hour. read more

Shah Jees is a fabulous place for the absolute best food. I love the flavors, the variety, and ability to create the perfect combos, and how can anyone argue about the price. I know it doesn't reflect on the food but I would be grossly remiss if I didn't mention that the whole family is just the nicest bunch of people too. A while back, Shah Jees opened a place on the southwest side that was open in the evening and my wife and I LOVED going there, eating dinner, and simply hanging out and chatting with the owner and his daughters. Sadly, that location closed and the hours of the remaining locations make it an extreme challenge for us to dine there now. Rest assured, when we can find a way to get there during the hours they are open, we will be back there in an instant to dine of the great food they serve and converse once again with out friends!! In the meantime Shah, we wish you the greatest of luck and our endless hopes for your continued success and greatness!! read more

Friends, let me tell you my Shah story. My first visit was years and years ago - my then-boss was a rather curmudgeonly older man who was fanatical about cleanliness and very likely mowed his lawn in a custom made Italian suit. This man did not play. So, one day he said "I'm taking you somewhere special for lunch". I was pretty excited - the Pfister? Zarletti? Hotel Metro? Oh no - it was a hole in the wall in a sketchy office building basement where the food was served from a cafeteria steam table. I was like "really, dude?" but after one taste I was hooked. HOOKED. We had lunch here at least once a week for 5+ years. Fast forward to present day - its been a few years since I worked downtown and I was missing the Shah something terrible. The Mister agreed to go with and was a bit taken aback at how happy an $8 lunch could make a person. First, the Shah remembered me, even though it's been a few years - he thought I'd moved to France for work (from your lips to Gods Ears, my man). I ordered my old standby The Thursday and almost wept with joy. It was perfect - spicy, aromatic Pakistani deliciousness. Here's what you need to know: *There are "daily specials" (I.e. the "Tuesday") but they're all available every day *The line will be long. Totally worth it. *Open from 11:30-2 during the week only. Cash only. Everything is $8. *There is a special green sauce in a bottle. You want to use this - generously. *There are rotis on the menu. Sometimes, they're actually available but mostly not. Get one if they are. The Shah is the only thing I miss about not working downtown. It's the real deal. read more

My first impression of Shah Jee's was to leave. My food aggression got the best of me, so I waited in the basement cafeteria line for 30 minutes around noon. I knew that if all these people would wait, I should just wait. I had never tried Pakistani food, but I heard this was a hidden gem. People who grew up eating Pakistani food, were fans. I had heard of suggestions, so I tried the basmati rice, red lentils, and chicken masala. $7?? I'll take it!! The owner noticed I was a new customer and helped me out with the menu, which is always appreciated and impressive! As for the taste, it is simple texture, yet a whole lot of spice! If you don't like it, it's because you forgot to put the green chutney sauce on! Highly recommend and addictive! (It was cash only when I went. That might have changed since then.) read more

I love Shah Jee's, or "The Shah" as my friend and I refer to it, and I had the recent pleasure of visiting while in town recently. Lil' family run spot, and it's fairly obvious no one in said family is big on marketing. Lemme explain. There is no sign for this place, and it's downstairs. Very hidden, very hush-hush. And once you see it you will not be impressed. It's seriously just a little room with an old school little buffet cart, a hole in the wall style menu, and it shares it's tables with a Chinese place. That being said, who cares what it looks like? I'm just tossing this out there so people don't walk down stairs and then flee what they think is a dump of a place. If you don't buy my words, the freakishly long line of business folk at lunch time should explain further. The food is awesome, tasty as hell. Two items, rice and a soda for $7 flat. Vegan options should you be asking yourselves. If I worked in downtown Milwaukee I'd be here likely every damn day, but I moved. I miss you Shah Jee's, do you miss me too? Our days together? Why don't you call me anymore, was it something I said?? read more

This place is a Milwaukee institution for a reason. Even though we no longer work in this neighborhood, we try to get here once a month or so for the "Thursday". Perfectly spiced chicken, creamy dal and flavorful rice. Add a freshly cooked roti and it's still only ten bucks for tons of delicious Indian food. read more

Based on my last review, some new menu items may be in order, but everything I have here is always solid! Today's chicken masala and saag paneer was just as good as the last time I had them. read more

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Can't believe people who have rated 5 stars haven't had ever tried good Pakistani food elsewhere, yet! The proximity to offices is what best suits this place but the service, flavor, quality and quantity is lower than most other spots in town. The quantity of food served for the price is way too less and most of the times the curries are watery. Indeed some restaurants can serve buffet for this price when they offer two sub par curries and a spoon of rice. I wouldn't mind paying this if they can do an average job with their dishes. Recommend to try Anmol in the suburbs for Pakistani food or most other Indian restaurants for Indian flavor - these should fix the palates. Tip: A good food cart can beat this place hands down any day ! read more

We saw this on the travel channel and made it part of our itinerary on our first trip to Milwaukee. The location was a little unusual, but not hard to find, and the long line went quickly. The food is excellent! Very spicy, but had a lot of flavor. I had the tikka masala, and the dal masoor and both were delicious. Generous portions and a great price! read more

Shah Jees - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Nevermind that it's in the basement of this strange and somewhat disconcerting office building on Jefferson. Nevermind that it's in the corner of said basement, and that this building is sort of falling apart/hasn't been touched since 1994. Nevermind that they're only open 5 days a week from 11:30am-2:30pm. The Shah is my jam, folks. I was first introduced circa 2004 by a coworker while during a brief stint of mine involving a cubicle. Needless to say, that didn't last long. Learning of the Shah's existence may very well have been the best thing to come from my employ during that time. So, this is how it works: soda + rice + two entree choices = 7 bucks. Pretty solid, no? Seven choices every day, plus a sort of "surprise" entree choice. Pick two, snag your rice, grab a Coke Zero, and you're set. Sit in the weird dining area or take it to go. I usually eat in the strange basement because I don't want to wait. It's that good, people. Chicken Masala? Chana Masala? Saag Paneer? Dal? Sure. They've got all this and more. AND... worth noting is that hot sauce. I don't know what green goodness that magical bottle is filled with, but holy freaking delightful, Batman. Spicy and salty and spicy again, I usually put a healthy dose on the side of my rice. Addictive additives perchance? I'm not sure, but hot damn, do I crave this place on the regular. The Shah is a perfect example of small and well-done does well, and how word of mouth creates success. Shah Jee's has been around for awhile, and I sure hope it stays around for a longer while. And now, even though it's early-ish and I just ate breakfast, I'm craving. Must. Go. Today. read more

I have been eating here regularly for 9 years now. The place reminds of a high school cafeteria but the food is excellent. The chicken dish is out of this world and a must try. My only complaint would be that sometimes the consistency on spiciness varies. Overall, it does not bother me. The more spicy the better ! I usually get double chicken with bread. Local treasure. Make sure to bring cash. I know sometimes they will accept credit card but prefer cash transactions. read more

I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. I thought it was maybe hyped up a bit too much and wouldn't, COULDN'T, actually affect me in such a manner as has been compared to crack addiction. Twas a lovely summer's day about a quarter fortnight ago, when I found myself with a random day off. I texted Rachel F to inquire about a possible lunch date. She responded with "be here at 1, I am taking you to Shah Jee's" and therein our tale begins. Tucked away in the most impossibly unassuming basement location, Shah Jee's is open for just a few hours daily. We went later as to avoid the legendary throngs of folks who wait in line diligently when this place first opens up. We had no wait time at all. The menu is very simple with daily specials paired up to make your decision easier. You are served a pretty hefty portion for the price. I was beckoned to try "the green sauce". What is it? Nobody knows, but it is indeed green. In addition to being green, it is hot. HOT? I'm not quite sure of the most appropriate spelling of HAWT to describe the hHotT that this HOTT is. Mix it in to your foods to get a nice distributed hahhht feeling. It really was delicious and we finished quickly and then went about our days. I didn't think anything particularly special about it at the time, so I had assumed my over-hyped notion had been correct. Fast fucking forward to the next morning. I am on the bus to work trying to avoid eye contact and conversation, when all of a sudden I am paralyzed with desire. My brain is recalling something of its own will, and soon I am nearly drooling at the thought of stuffing more Shah Jee's in my face. WHAT IS THIS SORCERY? I could almost taste it, and my body was ready. Since then I've had more flashbacks. I welcome them every time. read more

My lady-human has been talking this place up to me for months. MONTHS! I thought there was no way it could live up to the hype she slathered upon it. Eeeeerrrrrrrrrr! Wrong! I can't say more that others have here. This place is fantastic! You do need to get there early because what they make for the day is it kids. No special orders and no back stock. You know, like a place that has REAL food. read more

It's exactly what I wanted it to be. Have you ever had that? In your head you have decided how the food should taste before going? I did that. The Shah delivers. As noted it can be tricky to find. It is located across the street from Watt's Tea room on Jefferson in an unlabeled building. Take note of the address. Go through both set's of doors and you'll see and hear the pile of people happily chatting and eating away. The parking is downtown Milwaukee so you are on the street which can be hit or miss. This is an interesting experience because I was going to be pushing it on time. I got there in a reasonable time stopping by Classy Girl Cupcakes for a treat for later. You'll immediately notice something... the long line of people is for the Shah. There is another restaurant down there (No.1 Chinese) but it was dead. Everyone is here for the Shah. Peak hours are busy and you will be waiting in line. Have your cash ready and perhaps read over the menu to have an idea of what you want. Get it to go or eat here. It's $7. You get a big pile of rice and the choice of two other tasty food stuffs. I had the Chicken Masala and Daal Massor I think... and Roti (bread substance) Was it the Chana or Daal Massor? Seriously, I absentmindedly pointed at something and blurted out some syllables that may or may not have been words. This makes me the worst reviewer. What ever it was .... it was spicy. Serious sniffle action occurring throughout meal. That is exactly what i wanted. I needed spice! The chicken Masala was nice and tender as expected and had a nice flavor. The rice was good for sopping up some juices but that is also what I used the Roti for. When it comes down to it the Shah is awesome. The amount of food for the price was good. The customer service from the young man serving the food and the lady at the register was good. They were friendly and helpful. Especially considering the busyness! Would I go back? Yup. Will I? Yup. The only thing I need to figure out is transit times. I walked and that pushes the envelope on lunch times. Oh well.... something to think about for the future. This my friends is a tasty treat. If you haven't been here... just go! The fifth star is earned because it met expectations and is the best of Pakistani cuisine I have had. Not that there is tons of competition but that is how my review scale works. 1 minor complaint. The hours are 11-2 Monday through Friday. This will make it difficult and or impossible or some people to get down here and try it. Maybe a Saturday option would be good but hey... I'm not the Shah. If you ever get a day off consider making a downtown day out of it and put the Shah as your lunch stop. You won't regret it! read more

I don't live downtown. I don't work downtown. I imagine that most of the patrons at Shah eat there because it's convenient, it's cheap, and it's good food. I, on the other hand, drove 30 miles for this experience. I had no other reason to venture downtown. But let me say this: if I did work downtown, I'd be eating at the Shah on the regular for sure. First of all, Rachel, this office building is not as run down or "disconcerting" as you make it sound. And yes, the cafeteria may be below street level, but it's not a musty, tile-ceiling, claustrophobic bomb shelter that the word "basement" indicates. There is daylight. It's not bad. And you know what? The food is dope. The chicken masala could become addictive, and I can't even comprehend what you get for $7. Amazing. Load up on some green sauce and enjoy. read more

My Brother and Father and apparently everyone else on planet earth rave about this place.... Finally went this week for the Wednesday Peas special and WOW what an amazing plate of food. The place is so easy and so simple it works perfectly. They know exactly what they are, what they need to be and they KILL IT. The owner is on hand doing his thing and making sure everything is quality and that the customer knows how much they're valued. Highly recommend... get off the burger, get out of the soup and try something new and amazing. read more

I think my expectations were a little too high for this place, but based on the reviews, I couldn't help but give it a try. I was also very intrigued by the mysterious green sauce that everyone seems to be raving about... Does it come in squeez-y bottles and is a mixture of cilantro/parsley/delicious spices? If so, it really is delicious, and don't miss out because it really brings this freshness and brightness to your dish that you didn't realize you were missing. My food came out rather cold. Granted, I did stop in towards the end of the lunch hour, and seemed like they were running low on all of their dishes. But I found the rice to actually be a little too dry; it was very flavorful. The roti was delicious, and I also enjoyed my lentils, but I found my chicken just a little greasy and less than tender. All in all, it was a meal (drink included) definitely worth $8. P.S. If you get it to go, I really do think you get more food. FYI read more

Went today for the first time. I think this location is where that irritating '50s-style diner Ed Debevic's used to be back in the early '90s. Got there about 1:15 or so and there was no line, but 2 of the 5 dishes of the day were looking pretty sad and/or gone. Got the chicken & channa masala with basmati & a can of pop, $7.00. Both were spicier than I expected, in a good way, and the chickpeas were buttery-soft (I wonder if they are cooked from dried peas or canned? Doesn't really matter I suppose), and the chunks of chicken breast meat were tender and served nice and hot, in spice and temperature. Next time I'll try the saag paneer and roti. And not get a Diet Coke. I don't know what made me choose that. I just saw it in the cooler next to the orange Fanta and something in my head snapped. Felt weird all day. read more

Shah Jee's is worth the wait! As you walk down the stairs of the 770 building just look for the long line and that will be The Shah. And no, the line will not move fast, but it is worth the wait! You don't have many options at the Shah. For $7 you choose 2 of 5 items with a side of basmati rice, plus a drink. The food is a little spicy, but not too bad. It is hard to say what this food tastes like since it so unique, but I would say if you like Indian food you would like this (ironic, hey?). read more

When first asked if I "wanted to go to the Shah" I was skeptical at best. I was unfirmiliar with Pakistani food, but the rave reviews from the people in my department could not be ignored. I was told it was the best, it was "like crack," and warned I potentially might feel a rush after eating it for lunch. While that all sounds a little over the top, they hit the nail on the head about how good it is. Completely baffeled by the line of suits up the basement stairs when I got there, I couldn't help but feel bad for the restaurant next to it because Shah Jee's was clearly the place to be. It felt reminisent of walking up the the hot lunch line in school as we filed up to the steam trays. I was preped that I should try the Tuesday, a combo platter named for the day of the week, simply cuz it's easier to say. It was delish! Spicy but with flavor, and generous as well. With that I was hooked. Whenever the name comes up, if I cant go, it's in my head until I have time to get there. IT clears your sinuses, and fills you up, for $8, drink included. I highly recommend checking it out, if you can get downtown, on a week day, between 11 and 2. Its totally worth the trip. And now, I think I have to go Shah for lunch today... read more

I really liked this place -- simple, good food. You know an ethnic restaurant is a good one when those of that ethnicity frequent it -- this is the case here. I'm no-carbing it at the moment, so I didn't have rice or bread which probably would have made my dining experience much better -- everything was too spicy for me, but I'm sure, if I would have had the accompanying carbs, it would have been just right. read more

Shah Jees - a man sitting at a table with a plate of food - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is a small ma-and-pa run place that decided that they were going to do exactly one thing (weekday lunches), and man, they do it well. They're stocked with a pretty standard set of fresh options every day, including North-Indian/ Pakistani staples like saag-paneer, a daal and a standard chicken masala dish. Lunch plates are $7 for two entrees and your choice of (a lot of) rice, or bread. The food is authentic, tasty, and I loved that at the end, I felt like I'd just eaten a lot of mommy's cooking, vs. a lot of greasy restaurant food. Also, by virtue of their limited hours, essentially guaranteed to be fresh -- which isn't a promise you can expect from comparable buffet-style places. The place can be a bit hard to find though -- there's no signs outside, but it's downstairs in the atrium eating area in the 770 Jefferson office building, I promise! read more

I love mom and pop places! Several things need correction right off the bat from the listing to references in reviews here. This should not be classified under Indian as this is Pakistani hands down (had a Pakistani roommate in college and loved the food he and his friends cooked). Maybe there is some crossover and to the average American palate your probably saying what s the difference its close but this is billed as Pakistani food. There is no "Tuesday" special as was referred to by a previous reviewer the owner informed me they have the same menu every day. They do not serve a Chicken Tikka Masala (which is Indian) which is also referred to by a previous reviewer. They have Chicken Masala which is considerably different in flavor and texture of the sauce but quite delicious and spicy without being hot...maybe a bit too spicy for some but a great depth to the flavor and very tender and fresh (I'm on a fresh is good kick lately I think). Unfortunately they had run out of roti but I was there at the end of lunch and everything is made fresh daily. While I would characterize the Indian food at Cafe India as on more of a gourmet level I would call this good family cooking. You feel like you are a guest in their home while eating this food. The food court atmosphere in this basement leaves allot to be desired as loud and echoing but I understand this is designed as a lunch stop for the downtown working crowd. We took it home. 7$ gets you two of the entrees a generous portion of rice and a beverage. Heck of a smart business plan for a restaurateur if you ask me...only serve lunch M-F but serve consistently good quality at a very good value...Avoid burnout and create a loyal following... I would give this 3.5 stars if I could but have to err on the side of 4 as the food deserves the rating. Don't confuse this with the restaurant on the first floor Zaffran billls itself as Indian/thai... was thinking of trying sometime but not sure...restaurants that try and do two different cuisines things never seem to do either justice...but who knows?? read more

I have eaten here several times but visited the place after a long break. After eating here today I feel compelled to write this review. I will grant all the Shah Jee fans the food is consistent and relatively flavorful. But with the recent arrivals of Mantra Bistro (in Oconomowoc) and India Garden (in Tosa) I wouldn't say Shah Jee has the best food in town. It is average; and the lack of variety on the menu and the relative indifference of the staff makes it a less than pleasant experience. At $8/plate it is not that cheap either. So you Shah-Jee fans gather up some courage and step out into the great unknown of trying other Indian restaurants in metro-Milwaukee. You won't be disappointed. read more

Great secret in the basement of an office building. I finally went after hearing about it constantly from a friend who frequents Shah Jee's. It's a tiny place--a counter with a cash register and a sign, basically. One guy serving, another guy cooking. Strictly a lunch place. There are a few tables where mainly business people sit during their lunch break. This was my first experience with Pakistani food, but I'm a big Indian food fan and there were a lot of similarities. I ordered the "Friday Special" with chicken masala, heaps of basmati rice, aloo palok (spinach and potato) and a soda all for $7. Stellar deal. Good place for vegetarians, as all but two items were meatless. I love places like this that are completely no-frills and surprise the heck out of you with great food. Yet another pleasant surprise on the Milwaukee ethnic food scene. read more

Food is horrible. Chicken is extremely dry and there's no sign of freshness to any of the dishes offered. Rice is also dry, you will literally choke if you don't eat with the sauce. Terrible value, serving is the exact opposite of generous, maybe it's because they don't even expect you to like it. Self serve, the atmosphere of eating there is like a school cafeteria, but with a terrible smell, absolutely not appetizing. Cash only. read more

I was introduced to Shah Jee's from a co-worker. I was pretty skeptical because I hadn't ever had Pakistani food and the location is in the basement of an office building but I went for it. I can tell you hands down this is my favorite lunch spot in downtown Milwaukee because it is simply delicious but also pretty healthy. Shah Jee's reminds me of the Seinfeld Soup Nazi episode, except that the staff is super friendly! Just like in the Seinfeld episode, people line up in a single file line that can easily get 20-30 deep. Once you brave the line you get the chance to order either an entre or one of their 5 daily specials...I always opt for the Tuesday special which is spicey chicken breast masala with basamati rice, chickpeas and a canned drink...all for $7! It's amazing. Two additional tips: they are cash only and they are only open for lunch. I'd highly recommend it but then the line would get longer for my lunch trips there! ;) read more

I love Pakistani food and have heard good things so I was happy to try finally this place for lunch! It is a very odd space -- located downstairs of a building with no parking lot and it is a VERY casual cafeteria style dining and limited tables (do not come here for a date.) You walk up and order your food which goes immediately into a Styrofoam to-go container (even if you're eating there - negative points for not being environmentally friendly.) All that being said it was a very reasonable price and good food! I got the Chicken Masala with Saag Paneer (spinach & cheese) and basmati rice. The biggest section was reserved for LOTS of rice and the 2 smaller sections were for the meat & vegetables which is a little different from what I've seen at other places, but it was filling. The sauces were great to pour over the rice - very good flavor. Not going to add this to my regular rotation, but I did enjoy my meal! read more

Don't take my word for it, just go here for lunch and take a look at the line of 40 people waiting (im)patiently for some of Shah Jee's. This place is a favorite stop for myself and clearly many others who work downtown. I have not had any of item that I did not think was simply fantastic. Just as a heads up, most things are spicy. Final word: Go. read more

I used to go to this place more often than I do now, after some bad service experiences... hence the 2 stars. As a summary - this is a mom and pop shop with 4-5 different standard Indian dishes in cafeteria warming trays behind a sneeze guard. The guy handling the food handles the money. On the upside, the food is generally hot, both temperature and spice-wise. The food is fairly tasty, but the staff could use a little more foodservice training. I.e. don't handle my money then put your finger on the business end of a squeeze bottle of green chutney and shake it. Gross. Divey doesn't have to equal unclean. Also, they never have roti available. They're literally printing money at this place (considering the huge lunch crowd), and apparently someone couldn't get to work 15 minutes early to start the roti that they can charge an extra buck for? Shah Jees clearly wins out vs. the No. 1 Chinese buffet in the same divey basement location, but don't have overly high expectations either. It's the only good Indian option downtown, but it's probably the divey-ist Indian place in this city. The lack of decent options in the Downtown-East area is what makes this place thrive. read more

What a find. Great Pakistani/Indian food here for lunch only. Cash only. I got the Curry Chicken with a spinach/potato side dish (can't remember the name). They heap the rice on, and amazing rice it is. This food has a slow burn that builds throughout the meal. Great if you are wanting to burn some crud out of your sinuses. Go before noon to avoid the rush, if you arrive at 11:45 that is perfect. Would have gotten 5 stars if not for a hair I found in my food one time. read more

Shah Jees - Chicken Masala, Aaloo Palak, and rice. This plus a can of soda for $8. - Pakistani Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This is a place you could eat. Not a place I would eat, but a place you could. Just super watery underwhelming Chicken Masala. I'm not sure if I just don't like pakistani or this execution left much to be desired. Maybe just cause we got there after the lunch rush and all the good stuff was gone, but the bad stuff was bad enough I wasn't interested in giving it a second chance. read more

This is in reference to the Downer location that has been open several weeks. I have been hesitant to leave a negative review because the food I have been able to get has been great. However, I have only been able to get food 3 out of the ~10 times I've tried to go. The restaurant has been closed at least 5 of these times when I've gone between 11:30-12:00PM. Twice, the restaurant was not even open by 12PM. Their posted hours say lunch is from 11:00-2:00PM. Two other times, they have run out of vegetarian food options within ~10 minutes of opening. Most recently, there was only 1 food option available at 12:00PM. I am hopeful Shah Jee's can get this figured out. I've enjoyed having this location so close to campus! I know they make the food fresh, but it would be nice if they could have this location open at the posted time with the listed food options available. read more

I often come here for lunch with a lot of my coworkers. The food is consistently amazing, regardless of what is on special. The chutney (green spicy sauce in the bottle by the cash register) is incredibly addicting, which is why I tend to make it a point to come in weekly. When they have it, the flat bread is a great addition to any meal The place is in the basement of an office building, so without directions from my coworkers, I never would have found it. It's a basic cafeteria setup: you order your meal, receive the food in paper containers on a plastic tray, pay at the register and then find a seat in the large seating area. I'd recommend showing up early - this place gets really busy during the lunch hour. The value of the meal is really reasonable in my opinion. You get a really good portion of food for the price. A typical meal of 2 entrees, rice, bread and a drink is around $10. For the quality and portion sizes of the food, this is a great deal. read more