So this past week I decided to try something a little different and opted for some local Indian Cuisine. This restaurant has been around for years, and under new ownership for only the past four years. Anant Singh became the proud owner of this restaurant in the Junction and has only watched it grow. The popularity of his restaurant has resulted in some great press, knowing this I decided it was time to check it out.
When my friend and I walked in for dinner the restaurant was very busy. We sat down and had to wait a few minutes before getting waited on. This wait seemed long because we weren't being acknowledged. Now in all fairness to them I was on my phone checking a message when he came the first time to get our order. So as it got busier, so did he and it took a while to have him come back. Regardless, on the tables was some traditional Indian bread called khakra. I found it very salty and it dried out my mouth, but we were hungry and it passed the time. During this time, I had the opportunity to check out the open concept miniature kitchen, where all the cooking is done. The brightly yellow painted walls created a warm and inviting feeling. The decor was very basic, except for the artistic pieces of Indian fabric which were pillowed in squares on the back wall creating a colourful mural.
For dinner we had Butter Chicken - $12.95, Chicken Tikka Masala - $12.95, side order of Naan Bread(Large enough for two to share) - $1.95, Plain white rice - $2.95, and Raita(cooling yogurt) - $2.95. Now to elaborate on the "cooling yogurt" from the previous statement. This saved my mouth since I am a mild to medium type of spice guy. When you have this on some Naan bread, it puts out the fire in your mouth which came along with Chicken Tikka Masala.
I really enjoyed the food, and the simplicity made it even easier to enjoy it. Everything came individually in its respective dishes which allows even vegetarians to share meals with meat eaters.
As for beverages, water was readily available which is handy when you have something a little more spicy. We did decide to share a bottle of wine which was Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio for $29.95. The amazing part was that if you decide to purchase a bottle you don't have to worry about not finishing it because they allow you to take the bottle home with you. (corkage fees apply)
When dinner was finished to ensure we had experienced everything I decided that we should have dessert. We shared Ras Malai with pistachios for $2.95 and Alfonso Mango Kulfi for $3.95. Both of which we would not have again. The first was a rice pudding in coconut milk and the second was an overly sweet mango ice cream. It was way to much and not worth it. They were nice enough to take the Alfonso Mango Kulfi off the bill since we didn't really eat any of it. Now I am sure the authenticity of the desserts where above par but they were not welcoming for my taste buds.
Other then the wait at the beginning of this adventure, and the intriguing desserts, this authentic Indian Cuisine experience was amazing. I really enjoyed myself and I would recommend this place to anyone.
I give this location a 8 out of 10.
Enjoy this cultural adventure.
- The Hungry Ginger
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