Charlotte Chui
Rated 4.0/5.0 4 months ago
The I tried three dishes, and each one showed off the richness and depth of Indian spices in a very satisfying way.
Mutton Rogan Josh ($158)
The first thing that hits you is the intense aroma of ginger and garlic, followed by the warm, woody sweetness of cinnamon, cloves, and cumin unfolding across the palate. The spice profile is incredibly layered. Although it looks fiery, the use of Kashmiri chili powder makes it much gentler than expected — more of a mild, warming heat than anything aggressive. The sauce is cooked with yogurt, giving it a silky texture with a slight tang that balances the richness of the mutton beautifully. The meat itself is braised until tender and fully infused with the sauce, so every bite is packed with deep spice and savory lamb flavor.
Medu Vada ($78)
At first glance, it looks like a savory doughnut, but this South Indian snack is all about contrast in texture. The outside is fried to a crisp golden brown, while the inside is light, fluffy, and soft, made from black lentil batter. On its own, it has a subtle fermented bean aroma and gentle saltiness, though it can feel a little dry. That’s why the coconut chutney and lentil sauce are essential. One adds a lightly sweet and tangy freshness, while the other brings a richer, slightly spicy depth. Once dipped, the vada becomes much more moist, flavorful, and seriously addictive.
Hyderabadi Gosht Biryani ($188)
This was easily one of the highlights of the meal. The long-grain basmati rice was cooked beautifully — dry and fluffy, yet still tender, with every grain distinct. The different shades of yellow, white, and orange made the dish visually striking, and each mouthful carried the fragrance of saffron and meat juices. Unlike ordinary fried rice, this biryani is cooked using the traditional *dum* method, where the rice and meat are layered and slow-cooked together, allowing the flavors to fully develop. You get the sweetness of caramelized onions, the freshness of mint and coriander, and the bold perfume of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom in every bite. It also comes with a yogurt sauce on the side, which is perfect for cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing sweet-sour note when the flavors start to feel heavy.