Our Story
Welcome to Moti Mahal, a beloved family-owned restaurant proudly serving Calgary since 1992. Founded by Bill and Rani, Moti Mahal began with a heartfelt dream — to share the authentic flavours of India with warmth, generosity, and community spirit. For over 30 years, we’ve welcomed guests to our corner of 14th Street and 17th Avenue, a location that has become a familiar landmark for countless Calgarians and visitors alike.
What started as a small family venture has grown into a gathering place where stories are shared over fragrant curries, fresh naan, and recipes passed down through generations. Every dish reflects our family’s heritage and our commitment to quality and tradition. Moti Mahal isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a home where good food brings people together.
Our Family
At Moti Mahal, when we say “family-run,” we really mean it. You’ll often find our mom knitting at the staff table, our dad making his rounds with a big smile and a beer in hand, ready to chat with anyone who’ll join him. Our servers and chefs aren’t just part of the team — they’re part of the family. In fact, our chefs are brothers-in-law, which means the kitchen is full of laughter, teasing, and a whole lot of love. For over three decades, this has been more than a restaurant for us — it’s our living room, and we’re thrilled to welcome you into it.
Tandoori Oven
Ever wonder why our naan tastes so amazing? The secret isn’t magic (though it’s close) — it’s our authentic clay tandoori oven. Just like in traditional Indian kitchens, our tandoor bakes each naan at a high heat, giving it that perfect soft, chewy inside and slightly crisp, blistered outside. The result? Warm, fragrant bread that’s made to scoop, dip, and steal the spotlight.
Butter Chicken
Our famous Butter Chicken has been a Moti Mahal classic for decades. Unlike many versions, ours isn’t overly sweet — it’s rich, savoury, and deeply spiced, with a perfectly balanced tomato-cream sauce. Tender chicken breast is simmered slowly to soak up every layer of flavour, creating a dish that’s bold, comforting, and impossible to forget. In the mood for a spicier version, order Chicken Tikka Butter Masala.
