Chopan Charcoal Restaurant - Brisbane

I had no idea what Afghani cuisine was all about until I first visited Chopan in Milton about 6 weeks ago - have now been back twice more.On our first visit, our charming hostess explained in detail how all the foods were prepared (fresh - from scratch - including spice blending etc), and went on to contrast Afghani cuisine with what we are used to from different parts of India.My take on this is that the Afghani food lacks a lot of the cream, yoghurt etc that you'll find in Indian food - so you get great charcoal grilled meats on fragrant rice, with "light" rather than "heavy" dressings.They take heed of requests for "less spicy" - although supply the "hot stuff" on the side for those that want this.It's worth trying all 3 entrees - the Bulani is a soft and fresh pastry, filled with potato, shallots and spices. Really light and tasty. I'd also rate the Samosa's amongst the best I've had - slightly crisper pastry and the filling just right.The combination kebab was what you would expect - the karahi though was standout, with meat or vegetables cooked with tomatoes, onion and egg, on rice.The quabuli is also a must - combination of fragrant rices, with slow cooked lamb (careful - at times still on the bone)! The added sultanas added an extra flavour.Sure - as I'd read to expect - at times we had to go and knock on the kitchen door to get a bottle opener, or other help. But this is a 2 person operation in a small suburban restaurant - that said meals were delivered promptly, the overview of the food's origin was great, and nothing was too much trouble.If you come here you do so to get some really terrific, light food, with friendly - rather than hovering - service.We'll be back many times.

Absolutely 100% ahhhhhmaaaaazinggggg!!! Have never had afghani food before tonight and I will definitely be back! Everything was delicious! We had 5 mains and two sides between 3 of us - was definitely not over priced and everything was scrumptious! Nothing could be faulted. The meat was deliciously flavoured and the egg plant Devine! Have had Turkish food before but nothing quite compares to this. Definitely give it a try! It's a tiny little restaurant and there is nothing glam about it, and that's the beauty of it because the glamour is in the food and that's all that matters to true foodies out there. 10/10 guys.

We were really excited about trying this restaurant after reading all the reviews. Didn't dine in, however walking in was horrific. It is currently a construction site, so we used the back entrance. Through the hallway they had a high chair covered in dust with a dustpan in it. Fluoro lights, dirty covers on the chairs, and unpleasant atmosphere. We left as fast as we could, despite feeling bad for the situation. Probably will never try again.

Authentic Afghani food, great service, lovely owners, we highly recommend Chopan and go here regularly.

The food was exquisite in taste with such lovely gentle service.The owners take much care with their food and their customers