[dropcap size=big]M[/dropcap]y Shanti stands out like a sparkling diamond inside an otherwise unassuming strip mall in South Surrey, B.C. Covered from head to toe in shiny, reflective surfaces, reminiscent of the tiny, intricate mirrors sewn onto a sari, My Shanti opens into a darker, more Bollywood-esque 4,000-sq.-ft. dining room and patio, with 88 seats inside and 30 outside.
My Shanti, which translates to “my peace,” is based on a culinary story inspired by owner Vikram Vij’s annual travels around India, visiting various food stalls and executive chefs across the country. He teamed with Vancouver’s Bricault Design, which designed his restaurants Vij’s and Rangoli, to bring his vision to life.
The menu features palate-teasers such as wild boar kebabs with south Indian chutney, from Chhatra Sagar ($13.50); cauliflower with potatoes and fenugreek leaves, from Delhi ($12.75); and beef short ribs topped with saffron coconut cream curry, from Calicut ($24.50). It also features boozy, spiced cocktails, such as the Badam da Naasha cocktail with vodka, almond milk, saffron water, cardamom and pistachio ($8).
