A visit to Shikara is a great experience. I go there at least once a month. The first thing that strikes you as you walk in the ambience. An open air restaurant with the seating areas built to resemble Shikaras on the water. There is a rock waterfall in the centre with live geese. Also for a group of 8 or more there are 3 baithaks areas where you sit cross-legged (or even stretched out if you prefer) on the gaddi with cushions. There are live ghazals six nights a week, along with a palmist, a magician, a bangle maker and lots of coin operated rides for the kids (which are free by the way).
However you may well say that ambience alone does not fill the stomach. What about the cuisine? Well they have an Indian menu which is quite comprehensive. I can’t really comment on the vegetarian dishes as I’m strictly non-veg. The tandoor items are great and I recommended the Mix Platter which includes chicken tangdis, tikkas and mutton seekh. Also the gravy I like best is the Chicken Do Aaba which has rich red gravy on top and a sweetish green gray below. The portions are also good and you can’t really try many dishes unless you go in a big group.
It is on the expensive side but its value for money.
It’s also really kid friendly with waiters being attentive to their needs.