Our history
From Riverbanks to Restaurant Tables
The story of The Machhiwala is deeply rooted in the journey of Makhan Lal, a visionary who transformed a humble fishing trade into a culinary tradition. Born in a farming family, he grew up exploring the Ghaggar River with his father, Amir Chand—learning not just to catch fish, but to respect nature, flavor, and food culture.
Over time, he developed a unique approach to preparing fish: marinating it overnight with salt and spices, and deep-frying it in mustard oil for a rich, bold flavor. What began as a practical preservation method soon became a signature style—later recognized across cities like Delhi and Amritsar as the original Amritsari Fish.
The Machhiwala Today
The Machhiwala by Makhan Fish Company is more than a restaurant—it’s a tribute to that legacy. It brings together the age-old recipes and wisdom passed down by Makhan Lal with a modern, vibrant dining experience. While fish remains our soul, we serve a full spectrum of Indian and global cuisine—along with artisanal café offerings and signature cocktails.
Our nautical-inspired space reflects the journey from river to plate, from past to present—where every detail honors heritage while embracing evolution.
Our Goals
- Honor the Legacy: To preserve and promote the original flavors of Amritsari Fish that Makhan Lal introduced to the world.
- Serve with Integrity: To ensure freshness, quality, and authenticity in every dish—just as it was done generations ago.
- Bridge Tradition and Trend: To create a menu and atmosphere that welcomes both the nostalgic and the new, the traditional food lover and the modern café-goer.
- Create Experiences: To be a space where stories are shared over soulful meals—whether it’s a quiet lunch, a coffee break, or a festive dinner.
our food philosophy
Crafted with Legacy. Served with Soul.
At The Machhiwala by Makhan Fish Company, food is not just something we serve—it’s something we honor. Rooted in decades of tradition, our philosophy blends the bold, rustic flavors of Punjab with modern culinary sensibilities. Inspired by the legendary Makhan Lal’s original marination techniques and deep respect for ingredients, we believe great food begins long before it reaches the plate—with the way it’s sourced, handled, and prepared.
What We Stand For:
- Respect for Ingredients: We let quality ingredients speak for themselves—fresh catch, seasonal produce, bold spices, and traditional oils like mustard oil. Everything is handpicked and treated with care.
- Tradition Meets Innovation: While our heart lies in authentic Amritsari recipes, we’re not afraid to push boundaries—whether it’s a twist on a classic dish or a café-style global plate with Indian soul.
- Flavors with Purpose: Our food is robust, soulful, and rooted in stories. From our marinated fish to our slow-cooked gravies and house-made chutneys, every recipe is crafted to evoke emotion, not just taste.
- Inclusive Dining: We celebrate diversity on the plate—offering everything from hearty Punjabi dishes to vegetarian comfort foods, café bites, and innovative cocktails. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a trend-seeker, there’s something here for you.
- Made to Be Shared: Our dishes are designed for togetherness. Whether you’re breaking bread with family or catching up over coffee, we believe food is best when it brings people closer.
