Everything was delicious and fresh. Staff very friendly. From Las Vegas where we frequently eat at indian restaurants, this is one of the best. Will definitely come back next time we are in Boise. Prices are very reasonable, $50 for the both of us and left full. We ordered spinach cheese curry (saag paneer), samosas, rice, muliganti soup and mango lassie drink.
(5)
Sheri K.
Really loved this place! First off...patio! Second - the owner took care of us and ended up sitting and chatting with us. He was a very nice man. The food was delicious and the service was great. I got the yellow curry and we ordered a couple types of naan as appetizers. The prices are reasonable.
(5)
Anirban N.
Happened to run into this place as I was traveling to Seattle from Las Vegas via Boise. Lunch was available as buffet, got to enjoy flavor of many dishes. Food was great and so was service
(5)
Kirk H.
Tried this place out for the first time last night with my girlfriend. Very happy we made the choice. Excellent service and outstanding food. I had a couple different Indian beers and the lamb shank with garlic na'an. She had the chicken tikka masala. All main dishes are served with rice. I have to say, lamb is pretty difficult to do right, but they nailed it. Best lamb I've had in a very long time. She was very happy with her meal as well. The owner spoke to us several times and was a very charming fellow. His wife is the cook and makes all meals from scratch. Slightly longer wait than normal, but well worth it. I highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)
Nikkeya M.
We are never disappointed here! For the longest time I thought Indian food wasnt for me but it was really that other places were not authentic and did not have things properly flavored. Also many places the service was so anti-social. I came here with my husband and my two young son and my opinion changed drastically. The owner , his wife and their nephew are extremely friendly. We arent regulars exactly but im surprised they always remember us and are generous! Conversations always pick up where they left off its like family! The food is amazing i always get the korma with lamb, my husband mixes it around a lot but we've grown fond of the lamb shanks. Over the last few years ive seen them personalize things to peoples likes and the menu has expanded with so many great options! It takes sometime for food because its all freshly made! And definatly worth the wait!
(5)
Matthew L.
I ordered Korma with Goat there was a mistake and I received chicken instead. It was a disappointment as I really have come to enjoy the succulent flavor of goat and was really craving it since trying it in Seattle a few months back however the dish was still very delicious. Full of spice and flavor, the chicken was cooked to perfection, it was tender and juicy which is sometimes lost in a curry dish. The Basmati rice was also cooked perfectly, it was savory and aromatic. To accompany my dish I had the "Taj Mahal Premium Lager" imported from India it was a cool crisp and refreshing lager and not too light. I brought the mistake to the owners attention and he was very apologetic and offered to make the dish I ordered correctly, I graciously declined as the dish that was already prepared was very delicious, he offered me a Kheer dessert on the house for the mistake which is a traditional rice pudding. A new found love of mine. The dessert was very interesting, creamy, savory and sweet; the perfect combination. I would have given an additional star regardless of the mistake had the server checked on me sooner. Was the service bad? Absolutely not, the owner greeted me at the door with a very kind and pleasant manner and seated me right away. He obviously enjoys what he does and takes pride in his establishment and his food. I hope the next time I will be able to enjoy that delicious, tender and succulent goat meat with my dish.
(4)
dee p.
I came in before my flight because Indian food sounded great. Found this place in downtown Boise. I don't put up a lot of reviews, but this place has the best kheer I have ever had. Kheer is a rice pudding dessert for those who don't know. I am currently on my 4th serving since it is one of the items available during their lunch buffet. I only like Indian buffets if there is kheer, and this place has kheer. They also have a unique selection of alcohol but I didn't order any. Now onto my 6th serving of kheer. Don't judge me. Note: they also have Mexican Coke. Also, fresh naan comes with the lunch buffet. Both are good.
(5)
Laura N.
Food was great, service was slooooow, but the people were really nice. I'm giving it 4/5 stars only because my dad asked for very mild curry and his was definitely more of a medium spice. We both agree we'd come here again!
(4)
Rebecca M.
Taj Mahal is a lovely dining experience, with friendly staff and delicious food. I will be returning for sure.
(5)
Susan C.
Loved our meal there last night. The four of us had a late night reservation and the owners were so accommodating. The meal was fabulous. I'm visiting from San Francisco and wanted to take my friends out for dinner. A true foodie, and a vegan, I needed a spot that knew how to prepare foods for my lifestyle while my friends who eat meat were also able to enjoy their choices. Food is prepared to order in any way you like it. Accommodating for all dietary restrictions. Organic. Fresh. Go! Enjoy yourself!!
The Taj Mahal was incredible. When we went, we ordered curry and eggplant and it was out of this world. The yellow curry *I think* was the best thing that I've eaten in a very long time. There was just enough spices to create a party in my mouth! The eggplant was also amazing. Since I am allergic to wheat, we opted to try the gluten free Naan. I thought it was great, but my partner did not like it one bit. Overall, this place was wonderful and I am so glad I discovered it!
(5)
Erin Z.
Best Dal I have ever had- And I've had a LOT! The okra was heavenly too. I'm a vegan "foodie" and I adore excellent Indian food. I cook it and I seek it out when I am traveling. Taj Mahal is fantastic. Gracious husband and wife owners who sat us close to closing time, prepared vegan chai for us and created a meal I am still dreaming of. I will go for sure the next time I am in Boise! Heck, I may go to Boise just to eat there!
(5)
Raquel H.
Amazing food. We always stop at Indian restaurants when we are really hungry and tired. This one met all of our expectations and far surpass them. Delicious chai. Amazing food and extraordinary naan. Try the ginger and chili naan. Uhmmm... I already want more.
(5)
Jess R.
Been back since our last visit through and the food was delicious! We caught one bad day probably and I feel horrible I wrote a poor review on the restaurant my last trip through. Beautiful restaurant and great home cooked indian food. Thanks!
(5)
LikePink C.
I ate here twice. First visit I ordered goat achari curry which was really good and Shrimp biryani which was okay. It took them over 60 minutes to bring me my food after my order. Second visit I ordered Chicken Biryani (spicy level - hot). They served me food after one hour. Biryani was not spicy, was not hot. Chicken was dry. I thought I will ask the server to get me some spicy sauce or chutney or raita to go with Biryani. But the server never showed up after giving me food. No one stopped by to even ask or check if I needed water or if food was ok. I want the OWNER to read this. Since no one checked on me I decided to walk to the counter and talk to someone. I spoke to the Owner and he mentioned that because it was little busy no one could stop by to check on me. I want the OWNERS to know that because it was busy you guys did not give me free food neither did you guys tell that to me before me placing order. So I expected quality food or at least good service. But nothing was even close to what any decent restaurant would offer. The owner took off $15 from my $100 bill (I think to compensate the average quality food and bad service) but I want him to know that things DO NOT work that way. After I expressed my concern he gave a weird look to the server (as if it was entirely her fault). It would help if they treat their employees well. It was not her fault, may be if you hire more people it will help manage situations like these. I will never return.
(3)
David B.
3 words- Palak Subzi Dal. This dish is what's up! Vegan Indian food is so good when done right and these guys know how. I have searched for this dish at many other Indian restaurants around the country and never found it. I think the translation is Spinach Curry with vegetables and lentils. The owner says it's a family recipe from hundreds of years ago! Portions are big here, so sharing is ideal. Owner is a great guy as well. Come to Taj Majal and try the Palak Subzi Dal
(4)
Scott G.
Best Indian food in Boise, bar none. Interesting atmosphere, fresh ingredients, lunch buffet every day. Varied menu. Large selection of beer.
(5)
Amy S.
I love Indian food and I am also very picky with it there are a few other places in town and I don't like them much but Taj Mahal was wonderful!!! I absolutely loved the vegetarian dishes they served on the buffet. The atmosphere was incredible I felt welcome and comfortable. I will be finding reasons to have errands in Boise just so I can stop in for lunch. The dishes were great!
(5)
Imad K.
I believe the best food I ever had it my take long time but I know I have to eat fresh food some food can take time to prepare some not .so don't be mad if you have to wait longer than other people just come in , when the owner told me that I have to wait 30 mt I thought will as long the food is good thats all I care about price is right the food is best I will come back every time I have time family owned nice people good service I will come back with my friends again best Indian food at least in Idaho. Thanks taj mahal thank you sohayil see you soon
(5)
Hungry G.
This is a great place for both newbies and Indian food connoisseurs to experience the best of Indian cuisine. For those afraid of Indian food's reputation for spiciness, they can tone it down for those who don't like it hot. The lunch buffet is outstanding and a great way for the inexperienced to get a feel for the menu. They have a nice representative sampling of many dishes and their delicious "naan" flat-bread. The chicken tikka masala is always a great Indian "gateway" food and one of their best dishes. The bright orange dish is unbelievably good -- chicken in a creamy tomato/curry sauce. WARNING: IT IS HIGHLY ADDICTIVE! Be sure to try the Naan. I initially resisted because it looked simply like a tortilla, but now it's a favorite. The garlic naan (flat-bread slathered in butter and garlic) is out of this world. For dinner, I recommend ordering a bunch of different dishes and eating them family style. I have really enjoyed the Onion Bhaji as an appetizer (think onion rings in a hummus batter with a variety of chutney dipping sauces). The roasted lamb shank was fantastic last time; it was glazed with a fruity sauce. Since it's Indian, of course they have some great vegetarian choices: both the Palak Paneer (Indian cheese in a creamed spinach sauce) and the Palak Subzi Daal (lentils cooked with cauliflower, tomatoes, eggplant, and potatoes) are so good. Most dishes come with Basmati Rice, a long grained rice with a mixture of spices. Be prepared for a little wait for your meal. The owner (a really cool guy) and his wife make everything from scratch, so it takes some time. However, it is worth the wait while you enjoy some Bollywood videos on the flat screen TV.
(5)
Tina M.
Unbelievably good! Try the very reasonable lunch buffet ($9.99) and then come back to splurge on dinner. Very good gluten free options including naan. And don't miss the cherry cider on tap. It pairs perfectly with the spicier dishes!
(5)
Mar B.
I tried this place for takeout last night. I called in and they said 30 min but it took almost an hour for them to get my food ready. I was not impressed with the lamb curry it was runny and just not what I was expecting. I have eaten indian food all over the PNW and I wouldn't eat here again.The owners were nice they did try and gave me tea while I waited but I don't think I would eat here again.
(2)
Jon S.
This place is awesome! The owners and the staff are such wonderful people. The restaurant is clean and has a great atmosphere. The food is made fresh and is absolutely delicious. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. The garlic nawn is amazing!
(5)
Paragkumar T.
It was the best Indian food in the US... Freshly cooked everything... Mango lassi, naan and curries were the best...
(5)
Dustin B.
This place has a nice atmosphere and the food was awesome. They have a tv where they play Indian music videos which was fun. It's a little pricy, but good for occasional date nights. As a warning the food is very spicy. I got the medium and I couldn't go any higher. It's not that it was pure heat, it just has very good seasonings with a kick. Even the mild has a little more kick than you might expect. I thought the mild was reasonable but my mother couldn't take the spiciness even with mild. If you like spicy you'll like the food.
(5)
Calli A.
I'm visiting family and friends for the week before heading back to Portland, Or. The Taj Mahal was first introduced to me at the beginning of my trip by friends, and it was such an amazing experience I had to go back once more before leaving. I haven't really delved into the world of Indian cuisine before- but am familiar with curries and what not. This restaurant has opened my eyes to all the spices, textures and flavor profile that is true Indian cuisine. This is not some chain that throws together food in 15mins.... This is made from scratch, using fresh, quality, authentic ingredients and a touch of amazingness. The prices average around $15-$25 an entree- but you will have plenty to take home! Or share (that's the best). The staff is mostly family that owns the restaurant- so they are attentive, efficient, kind and truly the best service you could ask for. The two times I have been to the Taj Mahal have been identical in incredible food quality, taste and service. The brood menu has something for everyone (I highly recommend the coconut curry with halibut) And I would suggest this restaurant to anyone in or visiting boise-whether your an Indian food fan or not- the sheer deliciousness will win you over. Very glad we found this little gem in the heart of downtown. My next trip to Boise- I will be sure to stop in. Probably twice.
(5)
Dani S.
We absolutely love this restaurant, one of our favorites in Boise! The owners are so nice and the food is authentic (the wife is cooks in the kitchen while the husband hosts up front). We always come back for the chicken madras and the butter chicken! The lamb dishes are great too. The garlic naan is out of this world, we usually order two! We've tried the other Indian restaurant in Boise and much prefer this one.
(5)
Michael Q.
Love the lunch buffet...fabulous beer select...great outdoor seating... good quantity for the price..
(4)
M G.
We arrived before 6:00 PM and sat outside. The chairs were terribly stained and rather dirty so we found the cleanest chairs from two other tables. Our server was very nice but the overall service was unbelievably slow. The appetizer, Shami Kabob, was OK. The menu says "minced" steak and it is so finely minced that we couldn't distinguish the meat in terms of texture or flavor. We ordered a beer and a cider and then waited and waited and waited. It took over an hour for us to get our entrees and they were disappointing--surprisingly bland. The Madras Lamb had a few small pieces of lamb in a rather watery curry and the Chicken Biryani, Kashmiri Style, primarily consisted of a lot of bland rice. After our entrees, our server disappeared as the restaurant became full and there were only two servers working, as far as we could tell. We had to go inside and ask for our check. It was expensive and very disappointing.
(2)
Chao Z.
This is a pretty good Indian restaurant, food smells good, tastes better. The owner of this restaurant is a nice guy. Definitely recommend to try this!
(5)
Tim P.
I went there for the lunch buffet and it was great. Very affordable and all of the food was delicious. Their eggplant and chicken masala both had a very hearty spiciness, and the naan was warm and fresh. I'll be back.
(5)
Micah H.
My gf and I had a layover and needed a good place to eat that was quick. The lunch buffet was excellent in taste and variety, and the owner was hilarious and made us feel very comfortable. They have awesome (and huge) mango lassi drinks! Overall an awesome place to eat!!
(5)
Leslie W.
The food was really tasty, but the service is horrific. Expect to hang out for an hour after your appetizers and another 30 minutes after you ask for your check and boxes for leftovers.
(3)
Matt D.
Owner is warm, welcoming, and helpful. A husband and wife own this place and my girlfriend and I have never had better Indian food. The husband works the front of the house and they wife prepares the meals in the traditional fashion she learned from her mother. In addition to being the best Indian food in Boise it is also the most vegan friendly establishment we have found in Idaho. Even if you still eat meat I would recommend trying some of the dishes listed as vegan on the menu. With all the delicious flavors you won't miss the meat. You won't regret it and you'll make your cardiologist happt too. :^)
(5)
Wes M.
Dinner is family style so it's a lot of food for one person. Got my dinner takeout, smells wonderful! After eating... For and Indian place and what you pay, thou my sample of there menu was somewhat limited, I expected the food to be a little more spectacular... I'd try again if I was going with a group..
(3)
Robert L.
I had the Goat Biriyani which was absolutely delicious! I will definitely be back and I want to try the lunch buffet.
(5)
MyKal L.
Amazing food!! We eat here all the time. The service is a little slow and there's usually a wait for the food, but it's always worth it!! The Taj Mahal is by far my husbands and mine favorite restaurant!!
(5)
Emily S.
The food was really good. The location is right on downtown Boise, which is lovely. The service was really nice.
(4)
Shane O.
I have been here for both dinner and for lunch. Dinner was great. But the lunch buffet on the weekdays is awesome. The buffet includes a large selection of dishes (both vegetarian and meat based) with lots of flavor and spices for under $10. Nothing overly spicy, but lots of tongue tantalizing flavors. But one of the best parts of the buffet is it comes with FRESH BAKED nan. Piping hot fresh out of the oven it is a great addition to the rest of the meal. Hard working and friendly staff with an owner who is always happy to strike up a conversation if he has the time. If you are looking to enjoy a beer, the banana beer that they have on tap is a pleasant surprise.
(5)
Hamza I.
Hands down the best Indian/Pakistani food I've had, I make sure to stop by here everytime I come to Boise I travel quite often with the us navy and haven't found a place of this quality in any of the various duty stations or ports I've visited.
(5)
Becky S.
We've tried two of the Indian restaurants in town now (Taj Mahal and Madhuban) - and Taj Majal wins our vote, hands down. First off - the decor and customer service is second to none. We've only been here a few times (twice for dinner and once for lunch), and the owner already recognizes us. The dining room has a living-room quality to it - super comfortable and inviting. The menu is big, but does a great job of explaining each dish - I always have a tough time deciding what to order. There's a decent beer selection, and the hot herbal tea is awesome, a great accompaniment to the food. Ah...the food. If they're busy, it does take a while to prepare, but it's worth the wait. Order naan as an appetizer so you have something to nibble on while you're waiting for your entrees. We've tried the plain, garlic, and chili naans, and love them all (though I wish they'd try using roasted garlic, rather than chopped). The chutney variety provided for dipping is excellent as well. The main entrees can be a little on the oily side, which is something that I've noticed at every Indian restaurant I've visited - 2 in Boise, 1 in San Francisco - so it might be a normal thing...? Regardless, they taste amazing. The levels of spice are exactly to my liking (hot but not too hot), and the basmati rice is good enough to stand on its own!! I always make sure to leave enough for a lunch the next day - the flavors are even better then. If you love spice, or are even remotely curious about Indian food - please stop by. You won't regret it!
(5)
Kellen C.
As a Yelp Elite this is the first time I used a free E-Coupon from Yelp and yeah it worked I got a free Samosa even better than that the owner gave us two. The Food is great I had the Tandoori Baba Fish it was the best Fish from an Indian cuisine I have ever had, and very good the owners the woman chef and her husband who is host, waiter etc. The menu is going to run you over $25 a plate but when my lady babies eat everything off their plate I would have bought 4 more plates. The service is slow so you are going to get the true international experience go to India, Africa, Caribbean etc things don't move fast but all the food is cooked from scratch and worth the wait have a nice drink from exotic mango non alcoholic drinks to exotic beers if you enjoy such things. The decor is Awesome I would have not expected this jewel in Boise. I am Loving Boise this is on my list of cities to discover
(4)
Ashley F.
They make their own paneer! And it's really good! I'm still stuffed full and have been thinking about the paneer since I left the restaurant two hours ago. Little expensive, but my comparison is cheap veggie Indian places in Vancouver, a maybe this is the norm here. The dishes were slow to come out but we were forewarned that it'd be made from scratch. Totally fine. Pleasant atmosphere. Tasty roti, naan was soooo buttery and delicious. Really nice to see vegan food identified on the menu as well as local goat meat. We had the halibut which was really tasty, I'd never had dish curry before. Staff were super pleasant, welcoming and friendly.
(5)
Sandy W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Boise. I've never in my life had food that tasted as good as the Chicken Korma and the Rogan Josh dishes here. And the naan is to die for. Seriously good. Take your time if you go there for dinner, she makes everything from scratch, but it is well worth the wait. Lunch buffet is also fantastic. I'm usually not sure what the dishes are in the buffet, but I'm never disappointed. Everything is delicious.
(5)
David L.
Tasty food at a reasonable price. We had the chicken tikka masala, rice, and naan bread baked in their tandoori clay oven. It was good. Everything is made-to-order, so be prepared to wait a little while. I recommend sitting by the big screen TV watching one of the Bollywood hits they have playing (with subtitles, thank goodness). They are open late. We requested mild, not spicy, but it was still hotter that we expected. Taj Mahal is upstairs (take the escalator) next to The Balcony dance club and across the street from Fork. I may be back after trying some of the other Indian places in Boise beforehand.
(3)
Todd L.
Best Indian in town.....hands down!
(5)
Eric Z.
I thought they had closed shop when I learned they were no longer at their old location. When we saw they had only moved we had to try them out in their new down town location. I don't the know owners name but he is the nicest guy. Very friendly. The food was delicious but it might have been wise for us to confirm what we thought we were ordering. Indian food is delicious but I am horrible at remembering what I ordered before. Unfortunately this review is another victim of my not being able to remember the names of what we ordered. One dish was mostly spinach (a total hit), another was some red chicken dish (perfectly cooked but looked like it was dyed red), and naan which is everyone's favorite. If you know your Indian dishes you won't be disappointed. Kids are always welcome there. Be sure to enjoy downtown while you're there.
(5)
Madaddub M.
This was the best Indian food I've had in years. The flavors were bold and well balanced, and clearly everything was made to order with care and fresh ingredients. Although I'm not vegan, my meal was, and it was immensely satisfying. I can't wait to try some of the lamb specialties!
(5)
Rachell N.
Great Indian food. The service was a little slow, but maybe it's because everything was homemade? Service is friendly. Food is delicious!
(4)
Kyle H.
What an incredibly wonderful place! The man (owner?) was so great! I don't even need to say anything about the food - it was phenomenal! We all passed our dishes around and everyone tried everything - it was delicious. Hands down though the best part was the service. We arrived just before their afternoon break and he insisted we stay- glad we did! The guy was a riot! Cracked jokes, never missed a beat, and took incredible care of us. I'll be back without a doubt.
(5)
John V.
In 1631 the emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal out of love for his wife Mumtaz, who died in childbirth. In 2012, four business travellers to Boise came close to having their love of Indian cuisine die after one of the worst overall dining experiences in a long, long time. The owners of the Taj Mahal should be ashamed of themselves for their ineptitude in service and serving their overpriced and middling Indian food. Awful, awful, awful all around. I'd like to quote from some of the other reviews on Yelp of this restaurant before I get into my personal experience: Christy M. gives 5 stars and says 'It is expensive, but that's just Indian food." Ugh, Christy, have you ever been to Devon Ave in Chicago? Cheap and amazing Indian food does go togehter but obviously not here at the Taj. Rina K. gives 3 stars and states: "All of the (vegetarian) curries had a slight spiciness, but ultimately just tasted the same. And were so very oily. So. Heavy." Ugh, then Rina, how could you give 3 stars? Is it really A-OK to have dishes that taste the same and are oily??? Barf. David L. gives 3 stars and states "Everything is made-to-order, so be prepared to wait a little while." Ugh, David, I don't mind waiting a little while, but 42 minutes after being seated we got our one order of vegetable samosa's. Oh yeah, and the inside of the samosas were COLD! Fried food that's cold, now that is really a special trick...this is not Alinea for goodness sake where one may expect a feat like that, where it is intentional, by the chef! Now my turn...the Taj Mahal is located on the second floor of a poorly designed building in downtown Boise, take the escalator up if you must. Once we were seated by the owner we were not acknowledged for at least 15 minutes. The restaurant had a party of 6, a deuce and our party of 4. What is it with Boise restaurants and their inability to greet customers promptly and get water to the table in less than 5 minutes? This is the second Monday in a row that this has happened. Unacceptable. After waiting 15 minutes we thought it would be best if we placed our drink and dinner order at the same time; we ordered one appetizer and our three entrees for sharing. The drink ordering was silly; the owner told one of our dining companions that water was only available for those under 16...ok fine, cute and funny, but then when I said I just wanted water he kept staring at me to add an adult beverage, which I didn't want...the other three people at the table requested beer and wine isn't that enough upselling from water? So one would think that after we ordered our drinks and waters we would get them soon afterwords. We watied another 15 minutes after that! 30 minutes into the dininig experience and our first drinks arrive. WTF? The way the drinks were delivered would have been worthy of a Three Stooges episode: the owner carried two drinks at a time so he had to make three trips to our table to serve our party of four. Why three trips? Two beers, one trip. One water and one white wine, second trip. One water, third trip. Curly, can you buy a beverage tray and do it all in one trip? The samosas arrived to our table, if you recall, 42 minutes after we were seated, with a runny, thin mint chutney, some raita, and a sweet tamarind dipping sauce. They were cold so we asked for another order. With the Jeopardy theme music running through my head I wondered if we were ever going to eat. We should have left at this point and gone to another restaurant. We didn't. Finally our food did arrive. The Chiken Tikka Briyani was OK, but had too much of that fake tasting curry. Chicken Korma and Chicken Tikka Masala were indistinguishable from eachother. I think that's what Rina K. said about her veg enterees...same goes for the chicken dishes. I couldn't discern much, if any difference between the two dishes. Oh yeah, we had some Nan which was by far the best part of the meal. In addition to the extreme wait to get our drinks and our food, the other aspects of service were deplorable. Dirty dishes from the 6 top were never cleared from the dining room so we had a view of their stacked plates and empty glassware throughout our meal. The deuce was desparately looking around to pay someone so that they could leave this hellish restaurant. Another deuce was seated but wisely decided to leave before they got the full Taj treatment. When we were finished with our meal our dishes were never cleared. The owner asked if he could remove my dining companions partially finished beer glass while the remanants of our meals remained on the table. He said 'no, I'm not done with my beer' and then the owner walked away from the table without removing the dirty dishes. Inexplicable. In 1631, Shah Jahan was grief-stricken when his wife died during the birth of their 14th child. In 2012 I was grief-stricken at having chosen to have dinner at Taj Mahal Boise.
(1)
Daniel C.
One of two Indian restaurants we tried for lunch while on business in downtown Boise. The buffet looked sorta tiny so we opted for the menu. They have an interesting system where you pick the main dish (chicken, lamb, veggie, cheese) and then pair it with the preparation of your choice (butter, curry, biryani, tomato-like sauce, creamed spinach, etc.). Since it was an Indian/Pakistani restaurant you also get a number of kebab dishes. Overall the food was tasty - I played it safe and got the butter chicken while my coworker (originally from India) ordered Dahl and a vegetarian dish with the cheese. The garlic naan and main entrees were slightly on the oily side, and one reason my coworker pointed out was that the chef was likely Pakistani rather than native Indian, who would tend to use less oil. The owner was very nice and stopped by to chat with us -he was originally from Pakistan. Service was somewhat slow but the food and ambiance of the restaurant somewhat made up for it.
(3)
Kelly M.
Wonderful lunch time buffet!!! Owner is extremely helpful, happy to be of any assistance and really made you feel so welcomed and comfortable! Told us the food is nearly all organic, use authentic spices and they had such a great variety! Lots of vegetarian options and served to your table fresh nan! Only thing I could possibly ask for is a second serving of nan and those donut balls for dessert, only because their rice pudding is absolutely amazing!!! Will definitely continue to go!
(5)
Nicholas R.
I am ecstatic to say that I can basically cut and paste my review from this restaurants previous location into this one. There are a few subtle changes however, all of which are for the better. The beer selection is wonderful with over 40 varieties of micro-brews for you to choose from, a large portion of which come in 22 ounce bottles. The ambiance is great; it's a kindly toned down version of the old location, complete with Indian music videos playing on an HDTV in the background. The wait staff was very kind, very knowledge, and prompt. The food was excellent and the portions were just right. My dad and I had the Chicken Tikka Masala and the Beef Mughal, both were excellent. They do have a lunch buffet 6 days a week as well, which I'll be visiting soon. This is my new staple Indian restaurant in Boise. Well, it was before they moved form their Fairview location, but now it's much more accessible. Hooray!
(5)
Roshan R.
This is seriously the most delicious desi food I've had outside of India! I've been going to the Taj for years now and there is nothing else like it in Boise. The cook is always on point and makes every dish from scratch. Awesome gem in downtown Boise!
(5)
Lauren B.
Terrible experience... when our waiter brought us to our table my chair had old food all over it. It was so gross. That's just lazy service and cleanup. The chairs in general are disgusting. They need to take some of their profit and work on updating their dining area or making it look cleaner. This is a family owned and operated restaurant- as we were seated one half of the family was finishing a huge meal together right in the front of the restaurant next to us. 10 minutes later the other half of the family sat down 2 tables away from us to eat and catch up- not to sound disrespectful to them but how annoying to hear them babble on about their life so loudly and at the front of the establishment- is this professional? I didn't want to hear that while enjoying my food. With the family side show and the disgusting chair I was 2 seconds away from walking out, but our food came, and my god it was delicious. Their breads are simply amazing. Our food was the ONLY good thing about our experience. I will never ever go back and will only order from them if it is for take-out. Sorry.
(2)
Ken A.
We visited the Taj Mahal for the first time last Saturday. We booked reservations online for 5:30, but probably didn't need them. There were only a few occupied tables when we arrived, and quite a few empty tables when we left. The restaurant itself is wonderfully tacky with crazy 1970s Indian movies playing on a big screen hanging on a wall above a haphazard selection of statues and musical instruments. The service was personable and attentive, to the point where you feel like you are eating in someone's home rather than a restaurant. Our beers were delivered quickly. My wife ordered a chili beer that was pretty spicy (a whole chili is bottled in the beer), and mine was nice and cold. They have a decent selection of imported beer, a smaller selection of wine (I watched a glass being poured from the box of wine stored in the beer fridge, next to the lunch buffet station) as well as a nice selection of sake. I previewed the menu online and I must say it is much easier to follow than the menu you are handed at the restaurant. We had the eggplant apps and the potato with peas apps and they were both good. Will probably skip them next time as they were deep fried and pretty heavy. The three sauces that accompanied them were tasty. For our entrees we shared the Babajan Biryani which was huge (everything is served family style) and wonderfully flavored. We ordered mild spicy and it had just the right amount of heat. We also had the Baba Ji Fish which also had a little kick to it and a fairly small dish compared to the Biryani. The fish was crispy on the outside, but a bit dry inside. Still very good, we just used a bit of the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. The warm Onion Kulcha bread was a perfect accompaniment: crisp, filled with moist onions. We left happy, full and carrying half of our Babajan in a to go container. Overall, the service and the food were very good. My wife and I have already booked a return visit this week. I wouldn't consider us highly educated in Indian cuisine, but we have had wonderful meals in Fez and Marrakech, and Boise's Taj Mahal is a pretty good substitute if you can't get to Morocco for the night.
(4)
Rina K.
So this place...just don't go for the lunch buffet? I guess I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't this. There were three vegetarian curries, veggie samosas, two curries with meat, some meat, dressings, and rice pudding. Also naan, which seemed a little inconsistent in texture, but it was still pretty tasty. All of the (vegetarian) curries had a slight spiciness, but ultimately just tasted the same. And were so very oily. So. Heavy. Rice pudding was good. Very cardamom-y. Service was wonderful, though, and made sure we knew that they were there if we needed anything. Perhaps, next time, I will eat regularly there. That may be advisable.
(3)
Greg B.
Amazing food, incredibly nice staff, and a great beer list. Love the Bollywood movies playing on the big screen. Vegan dishes and super-convenient when downtown. Don't go here if you are in a hurry, but trust me it is worth the wait.
(5)
Darius L.
I was with a client and some coworkers looking for a place to grab a late lunch downtown, we were striking out all over the place. We walked in and the owner and what looked like his mother were sitting there getting a bit of rest before dinner service. Instead of turning us away, they graciously sat us and served us a fantastic meal. The food was paced well and it was prepared fresh with great ingredients. The Taj saved the day and kept us out of some crappy chain restaurant in a strip mall. Get a mango lhassi. It was fantastic.
(4)
Captain A.
Really good, but kind of slow. I guess they make everything to-order, and it shows. I chose a Lamb Biryani, and was very happy with the quality and quantity of the main course. I'm not East Indian, but I've eaten enough of that region's cuisine to know the good from the bad, and this is very good indeed.
(4)
Eric Z.
Excellent food, was very impressed. Pakistan based Indian cuisine. Mango latisse and raisin Naan were exceptionally unique and tasty. Family owned and operated, great service in a friendly atmosphere. Would definitely return!
(5)
Frank A.
Taj Mahal has been my favorite Indian food for six years. I started going when they were in west Boise and was impressed with the quality of the food, the atmosphere, and the extremely courteous service. The Naan bread is excellent, the vindaloos are spicy, and the tandoori chicken haunts my dreams. The new location downtown is convenient for those going to clubs and so forth, and I am happy to report that the food is as good as ever.
(5)
Brian S.
Most amazing India/Pakistan food I have ever had in the US. Staff is EXTREEMLY helpful and they make every thing from scratch, so they can work around any food sensitivities. Really amazing and delicious night.
(5)
Danica W.
Personally, I like going to this place for dinner the best. They have a great vegetarian/vegan selection, great level of spice and a good beer selection. Their lunch buffet is a little underwhelming compared to Madhuban's and Bombay Grill's, but the server and the owner are very friendly and change up the selection a lot; I've been here a few times during different days of the week, and there is always s couple of new things to try out. I think this place has the best pakora and naan bread. Highly recommended for dinner!
(4)
Ben B.
Wow. All I can say is, despite my tendency towards hyperbole, this place made me want to write yelp and ask them to loan me a 6th star. Seriously (and perhaps strangely enough) this is the BEST Indian food I've ever had. Period. You're reading this thinking, 'Boise the best Indian food?!' Yes. The service was top notch and the food even better. The proprietor and his wife are Indian and know what they're doing. He does the front of the house while she cooks up her mom's mom's recipes to perfection. Order the vegetarian kadi, some naan and a beer off the incredible beer list and just enjoy.
(5)
Revoir D.
Awesome food! The chefs are actually from India. Authentic naan, tandoori, tikka dishes, etc. The rice pudding is fantastic as a dessert. The service has always been a little slow, but the food is worth it.
(5)
Pat S.
Great food. One of our favorite places to eat.
(5)
k b.
Wonderful place. All the food is made from scratch so if you are wanting fast or a buffett....there are other places to go. I have had many dishes off the menu and all are delicious. With an amazing selection of import craft beers and also sake and wines. The customer service is great and just ask what you need....extra rice, drinks, or more naan. Dining experience is 90min to 120min
(5)
Lisa E.
When the owner brought our food to us, he said, "you are about to have the best Indian food you have ever had." He was right. Great complex flavors, super fresh, delicious! The dishes are a bit pricey but the portions are generous.
(4)
Luke C.
Good Indian food. As usual, got the lamb vindaloo with a side of rice and naan. Vindaloo was a little "greasy", if that makes any sense, but good nonetheless. Naan a bit crispy and heavy on the pre-dosed butter, but again, still good. One of the coolest things is the beer selection. I had Cave Creek chili beer, which went good with dinner (for $2). Overall, would recommend and will be back again!
(4)
David F.
They moved and it is even better: yelp.com/biz/taj-mahal-b…
(5)
Jason S.
Tired of pizza, pasta, or burgers? Try something different! Taj Mahal is one of those gems in the City of Boise that everyone needs to try. The owner was friendly and personable and the food was absolutely amazing. For the timid, try the buffet during the week. It'll give you a chance to sample the different cuisine they offer. For you curry lovers out there, try the buffet during the week. It'll give you a chance to pig out on all the amazing food they got without breaking the bank.
(5)
Thuy P.
Ok. 2.5 stars at most. I came here because the rating was so high on yelp and was left yearning for more, not because it was so delicious, but because I had been expecting my craving of Indian food to be fulfilled and was failed. They have a large variety of bottle specialty beers. I ordered chicken vindaloo, onion bhaji, and garlic naan. Naan is hard to go wrong on, I dont remember it being anything special. After ordering and having a beer, my onion bhaji comes out, it was ok, I didn't really like it, the onions were thickly cut and clumped together, not fried very well. I have had way better. My waiter then informed me that the order may be a bit because they make everything fresh, which normally sounds like a great thing, but good Indian food is heavily marinated and it takes cooking marinates time too... So how fresh are they talking about? When the vindaloo dish came out, it didn't look as I expected, it was very watery, I could taste the vinegar in it still which meant it wasn't cooked long enough or marinated long enough. The chicken looked good, but when i bit into it, took my suspect the piece of meat did have the flavoring on the outside, but completely bland on the inside. Super dissappointed. This is not at all an authentic place and very "Americanized." The place probably cooks this way to save on cost since they dont have customers swarming the place. I'm not coming back, this place is like fake Indian cusine, looks like it, but not quite there.
(2)
Drew H.
So good! Friendliest people and the food is super tasty. The naan bread is money.
(5)
Dylan S.
The good: Quick delivery of food. The not so good: The palak paneer and chicken tikka masala were like soups. Usually they are thicker. Not a lot of chicken or cheese. The naan felt underbaked and doughy. Overall, not a great dining experience.
(2)
Janie P.
This place has moved to Downtown Boise and remains the best Indian food in town!!!
(5)
Gloria C.
Edit: THEY ARE NEXT TO THE BALCONY DOWNTOWN! WOO HOOO!! With unusually fast food this time. Open Monday-Saturday, tajmahalboise.com There are at least two other Indian places around town, but this is our favorite. Veg Samosas with chutneys. Paneer Mahkni or Palak Subzi Dal. Naan. Mango Lassi. Lamb Biryani or fruit and nut Biryani. Together, the perfect meal (and another the next day). Oh, there's beer, too, seems like a lot of it, am not a beer person, so i stick with the lassi (yogurt drink). The chai's good, too, served hot only. Dinner takes over an hour to complete, don't plan something RIGHT AFTER that you HAVE TO GET TO because it won't happen. Just relax, watch the Indian musicals, and drink your lassi. Anticipate your delicious food. Then, eat your delicious food. Seriously delicious. Have taken several people who've never had Indian to very positive responses, so go and order what I outlined above. This is one of our favorite places.
(5)
Dr. Dre W.
The other reviews state the basics. To help your experience I only suggest you make peace with the fact that the food prep is s...l...o...w... which isn't a big deal if you expect it. Be sure to ask for your naan before the meal, so you can enjoy it as an appetizer. Go with good friends, try a variety of beers, and be wowed by the number of costume changes in the Indian music videos. [Do not, under any circumstances, commit the choreography to memory for later use]. When the food finally gets to you, it's worth it.
(4)
Tiffeny K.
I want to spread the word about this super spicy, super flavorful, super fresh Indian restaurant. The flavors of their food are nearly indescribable. Each one, like musical notes, is evident and vibrant but together they create a complex and interesting whole. Their chef is the mother of the family who owns the Taj and she cooks from cultural & maternal experience which is what I believe makes the place so special. I ordered the Lamb Rogan Josh and my fiance, the Fish Biryani. We like our food HOT. We specified this from the onset and The Taj did not disappoint. The lamb was succulent, earthy, creamy. Over what can only be described as ethereal basmati rice, (it's all in the clove and the cumin seeds folks), it was a perfect balance between rich & light textures. The fish biryani was brighter in flavor and texture. Did I detect apricots in it? Possibly. I must ask about this next time. The fish was flaky, tender, not in the least bit dry like some dishes that include fish as an ingredient rather than a center piece. Drinks? I was surprised to find that they have as many wine selections as they do, particularly the Cono Sur Viognier which pairs perfectly with the food (thanks to my fiance for his wine guidance here). Mind you the wine list isn't deep, it's just adequate. They really focus on the beer menu. The service is outstanding. Don't be discouraged by reviews that suggest it's slow. It's all made fresh so it takes a while but not too long. Have a glass of wine/beer, some naan and chill out already. Good food takes time. This is food made by a family who treats you like an honored guest. I'll wait for that.
(5)
Jewl P.
we were passing through boise and saw the neon signs on the building. we looked at the japanese menu and of course it is a steak house...we are vegan. then we decided to try the taj mahal, even though we have amazing indian in boulder, and so it wasn't really a treat. well, we were wrong! this place was great... from the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly. everyone who worked there, and the owner, were super friendly and helpful. not only are they vegan friendly, they have VEGAN dishes listed on their menu!!! you're just never sure what dishes they might sneak a little cream in, so it was a nice surprise to see this. we ordered the onion baji. it was good but doesn't quite compare with our own bombay bistro who makes the best baji in the world. so i am probably just too spoiled. the mint chutney was really awesome. for dinner, we got banghan barta (very rarely found in vegan form), and spinach sabzi daal. YUMMMMM!!! it has spice, and it is vegan, and it is yummy delicious. the rice was amazingly tasty as well. i think they listened to these reviews, because there is no way i would ever say they did not use enough spice. very very tasty! to top it off, they had mango juice for junior, and a surprisingly diverse list of belgian and specialty beers! so we got indian food and chimay beer...what a combo! we will definitely come back next time!!!
(5)
John C.
I've been going here since it was located on the corner of 5-mile and Fairview. Very good indian food. Fresh Nan, wonderful spices, and I loved their Tandoori. They have notorious slow service, but it's worth it. The Owner is very friendly and has a good sense of humor. The decor and atmosphere has changed a lot, most for the better. I do miss the Indian dance videos in the background when I eat.
(4)
Nick D.
Good Indian food in a GREAT location! Super-friendly service is a big plus. They even brought fresh naan right to our table. I went for the Lunch Buffet, but look forward to trying their dinner menu. If you are downtown and in the mood for Indian, try Taj-Mahal!!!
(4)
John S.
Went there for lunch buffet and found it be only a few items. Very limited selections. Food is good though but wished there was more. Give 3 stars for limited items.
(3)
Jen W.
We went to Taj Mahal because it ranked alright on Yelp. It was our first experience with Indian food, and we were disappointed. Our food took a realllllly long time, which we expected since it was made fresh, and we would have been okay with that - until we saw people that came in after us getting their food before us. Then the food itself was really bland which was quite surprising. Service was friendly, but probably wouldn't go back.
(2)
Marie J.
Utterly awesome in every way. Curry++ beer list++ served by the owner who was so friendly and hilarious. Amazing experience
(5)
Puppilus P.
They get five stars for two reason: service and quality of food. I have been in mobile marketing for over 5yrs. For those of you who don't know what mobile marketing is, it is the promotion of brands, service to consumers or businesses (think of those events that seem to pop up at fairs, festivals, and other events that let you play wiifit, xbox, samples of free food, or teach your kids about science at school), yeah it is 100% travel. I have traveled to every state in the continental USA. I have been vegetarian for 3yrs now so I mainly eat Thai, Indian, Jamaican, and Ethiopian. Boise you have a gem, this establishment is one of the top three indian restaurants in the USA, of the ones i have eaten at and that is over 50 different indian spots. The other two are woodlands in Orlando and Ft. Lauderdale, and New Delhi in San Francisco (when I ate meat and boy I tell you that assorted tandoori platter with meats marinated for a day or two!!!). Taj Mahal's Karahi Paneer was the dish i purchased and it was absolutely amazing, the tart, onion, and spice melts in you mouth. I was so in love at first bite that I came back 3hrs later before I had to drive to my next event in Idaho Falls. The owner was extremely nice, as where his sons, and I thank him for suggesting the Karahi paneer. When you go ask him about the gentleman working for DIRECTV who came twice in one day. Boise I envy you!!
(5)
Jane A.
Two thumbs up! The Aloo Gobi (cauliflower and potatoes) and Bhaigan Bharta (roasted pureed eggplant) were delicious and made a great left over lunch the next day. The owner mentioned they would be moving soon, so you might call and confirm their address before showing up. I'm planning on going again during my next visit to Boise.
(5)
Michelle N.
LOVE this place! It's located right on 8th street, so super convenient and easy to get to. I don't remember exactly what we ordered, but overall the nana bread, curry, and appetizers were all delicious. Sometimes, they sell mango lasso (is that how you spell it?) which is basically a mango smoothie and one time, the server let us take our entire glass bottle home! The second time we came in, the owners remembered my friend and I and even where we had sat. They obviously pay attention to their customers and care about their business. Not to mention, they were very nice! Totally recommend this place. Who ever said Boise didn't have any cultural food??
(5)
R H.
Wow, just checked in to Taj Mahal & now so unhappy! We had Naan & beer & an hour later, still NO food. We asked when our food might be ready & were told "15 minutes, they just started it." So, we asked for our check so we could still make our 8:00 movie, and they still charges is for the Naan!!! Now, I get paying for the beer, but it would have been a better show of sympathy if they has at least comped that. Sorry to say I will NEVER return.
(1)
Butter P.
AMAZING food the FRIENDLEST service If yer in Boise andnyern in the mood for spectacular Indian food, you can do no better than Taj Mahal. I'm currently on the road with my band and to come accross a treasure like this is one of ny favirite parts about touring. Seriously, hit em up. Regret it you wont.
(4)
Lydier H.
My friend and I really enjoyed the lunch buffet here. We love trying all kinds of curry and discover the our favor ones. We sat outside. Here's no napkins around and it's a little dusty. Just few areas to improve.
(4)
A.K. W.
Food is good. Service is super slow- like an hour plus to get your meal. Glasses were chipped and sauces are served with plastic spoons. The server never came back to ask us if we wanted another beer and the glassware smells of bleach. Wanted to like this place, but the service stopped me.
(3)
Justin R.
We had the lunch buffet - and it was amazing. Got there right as the place opened and they apologized for taking a minute to have everything out - but we got everything warm and had a mango lassi for the few minutes we waited. The fresh Naan with oil was absolutely fantastic and we were stoked to be having high quality Indian food in Idaho - the owners carried a great conversation with us and really helped the ambiance by being so available and caring.
(4)
Caroline T.
Went for the lunch buffet. The owner was friendly and helped us through our first visit there. The buffet had many options but we visited during a time where several dishes and entrees were out. They made the missing entrees fresh and everything was downright delicious! One of my favorite dishes was the one with cauliflower (not sure of the name). Also, their Naan bread was the best I've ever had! Overall, this was a pleasant experience with friendly staff and outstanding cuisine!
(4)
Justin H.
This review is going to read a lot like my review of Maru Sushi, so here goes: After being spoiled with the amazing Indian food in Portland (Plainfield's Mayur), San Francisco (Naan n' Curry), and Los Angeles (Manohar's Delhi Palace), we were a little sad to move out to Boise, where we sort of figured mostly white people lived. Couldn't have been more wrong! After striking out at a few pedestrian restaurants (Madhuban, Bombay Grill), we found Taj Mahal. This is easily, EASILY, the best and most authentic Indian restaurant we have ever tried. Be ready for a wait and don't complain about it. Mom is the only cook back there and she is making just about everything from scratch. And it is really, really worth it. So order some garlic-coriander naan, enjoy a beer from their surprisingly large and awesome menu (or bring in a bottle of wine [$10 corkage fee]) and get ready for some spicy awesomeness. Buyer beware: if you order your food prepared at the authentic spice level, you will get your ass kicked. In a delicious and pleasing way. I can't speak highly enough of this restaurant. They took great care of us on our anniversary and I even got some terrific marriage advice from one of the owners. If you fancy yourself an Indian cuisine fanatic, you must try Taj Mahal. Not for the faint of heart or palette!
(5)
Bryan G.
I've never experienced traditional Indian food and have only had Curry once prior to my visit. I probably would need more experience visiting other Indian places to get a true understanding of what good Indian good is, but this review will be based off my first time experience. Greeted at the door and was made to feel welcomed. The gentlemen introduced himself and his father. I explained I was a newbie and he guided me through my options. I can't quite tell you the names, but I got an orangish chicken thing and a meatball dish with rice on the side. I was worried about the spice, but I was surprised at how mild it was. noticeable but not overbearing where it ruins the whole meal. I definitely had a pleasant experience and will return again.
(5)
Mickey M.
Super friendly & knowledgeable owners. We ordered two curries and the gluten-free naan, all of which was some of the best Indian food we have ever had (and we have eaten a lot of it over the years). The food is made from scratch, and our dishes were ready in 15 minutes. Highly recommend this restaurant if you are in the Boise area!
(5)
Missy B.
Abysmal service and mediocre food make this a restaurant we will not visit again. We went as part of a large party with a reservation made several days in advance. I understand that serving a table of ten guests poses extra challenges, but some of their lapses were simply unexplainable. When I say the service was "slow" and "poor," I feel like it doesn't really communicate how bad things were. It took 25 minutes for them to even take our drink order and another ten before we got our beverages. We'd been seated for 45 minutes before they took our food order, and we didn't get our appetizers until we'd been there over an hour. Again, we were a group of ten, not 75, and the restaurant was not busy. My appetizer, naan and different chutneys, was sub-par. The naan was cold and a little dry. The butter they brushed on it had soaked in and congealed. There is no way it was prepared to order, and maybe not even prepared that day. It had to be old. Other diners at our table had better luck with their selections. Some of their naan looked fresh, and the samosas earned a "meh, could be worse" rating, but my dish was an absolute embarrassment. After eating our appetizers, we sat and waited. Then we waited some more. It was over 90 minutes from when we first entered the restaurant before we were served our entrees. We had an 8 year old at the table who was almost in tears from hunger. And then, they forgot the tandoori plate, which, unfortunately, was intended for the little girl. Ten minutes later she was served, only to find that every item was so overcooked it had the texture of jerky. They'd also promised to make it mild, but it was so spicy, nobody at the table could eat it, let alone my niece. Her parents left in disgust to go get her a happy meal. They did not take the "food" with them, as it was inedible, but the owner still charged them. The rest of us had varying opinions of our entrees. Some of the curries received good reviews, but my aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) was not very good and I wouldn't order it again. It also had the interesting side effect of giving the three people who tried it gastrointestinal distress a few hours later. Perhaps it should have been served with a side of Imodium AD? They finally brought the checks and collected our cards. To nobody's surprise, we were left waiting again. After 20 MORE minutes, we asked about the bill and discovered they'd left the checks (and our credit cards!) on unattended on a table several yards away for who-knows-how-long. We're so lucky nobody stole them! After we left, I checked my bill and saw that the owner charged us for the "free" samosa offer from checking in on Yelp, so be careful if you try to redeem that. As for me, I won't have that problem since I can't imagine anything would convince me to go back. One star for service, two stars for the food. I'm being generous and rounding up to two stars for the overall review, but I think they're really closer to a one.
India is the birth place of Chicken Tikka Masala and Curries. Indian foods are prepared with a blend of finely mixed spices quite popular across the region. The spices develop the rich taste in Indian food enough to boggle your mind. The ever-increasing fan base of Indian food around the New York city is steadily increasing because of the large number of Indians who traveled to the land of dreams. The Indians also brought their very own vibrant, colorful, and aromatic authentic dishes for the people in the West. While most of the Indian population is Vegetarian, Indian food is great for people who are looking for vegan or vegetarian food option. If you are a Meat lover, don't get disappointed yet. Indian food also boasts of some popular non-vegetarian dishes too. Few examples are the famous Butter Chicken, Mutton Biryani and Tandoori Chicken are enough to satisfy your taste buds.
Indian food has gained reputation all over the world especially in the United States. You can find many places serving the appetizing Indian food across all major cities in the US. India is a diverse country with different food culture originated from different parts of the country. While the Northern region boasts tandoori dishes and korma offering royal taste, the Western Ghats offers sea foods that is made in naturally sweet tender coconut milk. The South Indian food servers a quality of different dishes made from rice accompanied with spicy chutneys, curries and famous sambhar. Also, the Indian sweets are a delight to relish. If you ever want to have a burst of sugar syrup in mouth, don't forget to try few Bengali Sweets. Be it spicy, tangy, or sweet flavor, you can find everything in the Indian cuisine. Be assured that the melody of spices will surely bring delight to you.
Cindy J.
Everything was delicious and fresh. Staff very friendly. From Las Vegas where we frequently eat at indian restaurants, this is one of the best. Will definitely come back next time we are in Boise. Prices are very reasonable, $50 for the both of us and left full. We ordered spinach cheese curry (saag paneer), samosas, rice, muliganti soup and mango lassie drink.
(5)Sheri K.
Really loved this place! First off...patio! Second - the owner took care of us and ended up sitting and chatting with us. He was a very nice man. The food was delicious and the service was great. I got the yellow curry and we ordered a couple types of naan as appetizers. The prices are reasonable.
(5)Anirban N.
Happened to run into this place as I was traveling to Seattle from Las Vegas via Boise. Lunch was available as buffet, got to enjoy flavor of many dishes. Food was great and so was service
(5)Kirk H.
Tried this place out for the first time last night with my girlfriend. Very happy we made the choice. Excellent service and outstanding food. I had a couple different Indian beers and the lamb shank with garlic na'an. She had the chicken tikka masala. All main dishes are served with rice. I have to say, lamb is pretty difficult to do right, but they nailed it. Best lamb I've had in a very long time. She was very happy with her meal as well. The owner spoke to us several times and was a very charming fellow. His wife is the cook and makes all meals from scratch. Slightly longer wait than normal, but well worth it. I highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)Nikkeya M.
We are never disappointed here! For the longest time I thought Indian food wasnt for me but it was really that other places were not authentic and did not have things properly flavored. Also many places the service was so anti-social. I came here with my husband and my two young son and my opinion changed drastically. The owner , his wife and their nephew are extremely friendly. We arent regulars exactly but im surprised they always remember us and are generous! Conversations always pick up where they left off its like family! The food is amazing i always get the korma with lamb, my husband mixes it around a lot but we've grown fond of the lamb shanks. Over the last few years ive seen them personalize things to peoples likes and the menu has expanded with so many great options! It takes sometime for food because its all freshly made! And definatly worth the wait!
(5)Matthew L.
I ordered Korma with Goat there was a mistake and I received chicken instead. It was a disappointment as I really have come to enjoy the succulent flavor of goat and was really craving it since trying it in Seattle a few months back however the dish was still very delicious. Full of spice and flavor, the chicken was cooked to perfection, it was tender and juicy which is sometimes lost in a curry dish. The Basmati rice was also cooked perfectly, it was savory and aromatic. To accompany my dish I had the "Taj Mahal Premium Lager" imported from India it was a cool crisp and refreshing lager and not too light. I brought the mistake to the owners attention and he was very apologetic and offered to make the dish I ordered correctly, I graciously declined as the dish that was already prepared was very delicious, he offered me a Kheer dessert on the house for the mistake which is a traditional rice pudding. A new found love of mine. The dessert was very interesting, creamy, savory and sweet; the perfect combination. I would have given an additional star regardless of the mistake had the server checked on me sooner. Was the service bad? Absolutely not, the owner greeted me at the door with a very kind and pleasant manner and seated me right away. He obviously enjoys what he does and takes pride in his establishment and his food. I hope the next time I will be able to enjoy that delicious, tender and succulent goat meat with my dish.
(4)dee p.
I came in before my flight because Indian food sounded great. Found this place in downtown Boise. I don't put up a lot of reviews, but this place has the best kheer I have ever had. Kheer is a rice pudding dessert for those who don't know. I am currently on my 4th serving since it is one of the items available during their lunch buffet. I only like Indian buffets if there is kheer, and this place has kheer. They also have a unique selection of alcohol but I didn't order any. Now onto my 6th serving of kheer. Don't judge me. Note: they also have Mexican Coke. Also, fresh naan comes with the lunch buffet. Both are good.
(5)Laura N.
Food was great, service was slooooow, but the people were really nice. I'm giving it 4/5 stars only because my dad asked for very mild curry and his was definitely more of a medium spice. We both agree we'd come here again!
(4)Rebecca M.
Taj Mahal is a lovely dining experience, with friendly staff and delicious food. I will be returning for sure.
(5)Susan C.
Loved our meal there last night. The four of us had a late night reservation and the owners were so accommodating. The meal was fabulous. I'm visiting from San Francisco and wanted to take my friends out for dinner. A true foodie, and a vegan, I needed a spot that knew how to prepare foods for my lifestyle while my friends who eat meat were also able to enjoy their choices. Food is prepared to order in any way you like it. Accommodating for all dietary restrictions. Organic. Fresh. Go! Enjoy yourself!!
(5)M L.
What a disappointment. First off, how are they 2 dollar signs when a lunch item of purée spinach and cheese is $16. Palak paneer should be $8-9 for lunch. What about people who don't want a buffet that's been sitting out for hours. The owner or man that sat me was horribly rude. I got the feeling it was because I was a woman. He was talking with a friend and pretended I wasn't there even. Will not go back.
(1)Jennifer D.
The Taj Mahal was incredible. When we went, we ordered curry and eggplant and it was out of this world. The yellow curry *I think* was the best thing that I've eaten in a very long time. There was just enough spices to create a party in my mouth! The eggplant was also amazing. Since I am allergic to wheat, we opted to try the gluten free Naan. I thought it was great, but my partner did not like it one bit. Overall, this place was wonderful and I am so glad I discovered it!
(5)Erin Z.
Best Dal I have ever had- And I've had a LOT! The okra was heavenly too. I'm a vegan "foodie" and I adore excellent Indian food. I cook it and I seek it out when I am traveling. Taj Mahal is fantastic. Gracious husband and wife owners who sat us close to closing time, prepared vegan chai for us and created a meal I am still dreaming of. I will go for sure the next time I am in Boise! Heck, I may go to Boise just to eat there!
(5)Raquel H.
Amazing food. We always stop at Indian restaurants when we are really hungry and tired. This one met all of our expectations and far surpass them. Delicious chai. Amazing food and extraordinary naan. Try the ginger and chili naan. Uhmmm... I already want more.
(5)Jess R.
Been back since our last visit through and the food was delicious! We caught one bad day probably and I feel horrible I wrote a poor review on the restaurant my last trip through. Beautiful restaurant and great home cooked indian food. Thanks!
(5)LikePink C.
I ate here twice. First visit I ordered goat achari curry which was really good and Shrimp biryani which was okay. It took them over 60 minutes to bring me my food after my order. Second visit I ordered Chicken Biryani (spicy level - hot). They served me food after one hour. Biryani was not spicy, was not hot. Chicken was dry. I thought I will ask the server to get me some spicy sauce or chutney or raita to go with Biryani. But the server never showed up after giving me food. No one stopped by to even ask or check if I needed water or if food was ok. I want the OWNER to read this. Since no one checked on me I decided to walk to the counter and talk to someone. I spoke to the Owner and he mentioned that because it was little busy no one could stop by to check on me. I want the OWNERS to know that because it was busy you guys did not give me free food neither did you guys tell that to me before me placing order. So I expected quality food or at least good service. But nothing was even close to what any decent restaurant would offer. The owner took off $15 from my $100 bill (I think to compensate the average quality food and bad service) but I want him to know that things DO NOT work that way. After I expressed my concern he gave a weird look to the server (as if it was entirely her fault). It would help if they treat their employees well. It was not her fault, may be if you hire more people it will help manage situations like these. I will never return.
(3)David B.
3 words- Palak Subzi Dal. This dish is what's up! Vegan Indian food is so good when done right and these guys know how. I have searched for this dish at many other Indian restaurants around the country and never found it. I think the translation is Spinach Curry with vegetables and lentils. The owner says it's a family recipe from hundreds of years ago! Portions are big here, so sharing is ideal. Owner is a great guy as well. Come to Taj Majal and try the Palak Subzi Dal
(4)Scott G.
Best Indian food in Boise, bar none. Interesting atmosphere, fresh ingredients, lunch buffet every day. Varied menu. Large selection of beer.
(5)Amy S.
I love Indian food and I am also very picky with it there are a few other places in town and I don't like them much but Taj Mahal was wonderful!!! I absolutely loved the vegetarian dishes they served on the buffet. The atmosphere was incredible I felt welcome and comfortable. I will be finding reasons to have errands in Boise just so I can stop in for lunch. The dishes were great!
(5)Imad K.
I believe the best food I ever had it my take long time but I know I have to eat fresh food some food can take time to prepare some not .so don't be mad if you have to wait longer than other people just come in , when the owner told me that I have to wait 30 mt I thought will as long the food is good thats all I care about price is right the food is best I will come back every time I have time family owned nice people good service I will come back with my friends again best Indian food at least in Idaho. Thanks taj mahal thank you sohayil see you soon
(5)Hungry G.
This is a great place for both newbies and Indian food connoisseurs to experience the best of Indian cuisine. For those afraid of Indian food's reputation for spiciness, they can tone it down for those who don't like it hot. The lunch buffet is outstanding and a great way for the inexperienced to get a feel for the menu. They have a nice representative sampling of many dishes and their delicious "naan" flat-bread. The chicken tikka masala is always a great Indian "gateway" food and one of their best dishes. The bright orange dish is unbelievably good -- chicken in a creamy tomato/curry sauce. WARNING: IT IS HIGHLY ADDICTIVE! Be sure to try the Naan. I initially resisted because it looked simply like a tortilla, but now it's a favorite. The garlic naan (flat-bread slathered in butter and garlic) is out of this world. For dinner, I recommend ordering a bunch of different dishes and eating them family style. I have really enjoyed the Onion Bhaji as an appetizer (think onion rings in a hummus batter with a variety of chutney dipping sauces). The roasted lamb shank was fantastic last time; it was glazed with a fruity sauce. Since it's Indian, of course they have some great vegetarian choices: both the Palak Paneer (Indian cheese in a creamed spinach sauce) and the Palak Subzi Daal (lentils cooked with cauliflower, tomatoes, eggplant, and potatoes) are so good. Most dishes come with Basmati Rice, a long grained rice with a mixture of spices. Be prepared for a little wait for your meal. The owner (a really cool guy) and his wife make everything from scratch, so it takes some time. However, it is worth the wait while you enjoy some Bollywood videos on the flat screen TV.
(5)Tina M.
Unbelievably good! Try the very reasonable lunch buffet ($9.99) and then come back to splurge on dinner. Very good gluten free options including naan. And don't miss the cherry cider on tap. It pairs perfectly with the spicier dishes!
(5)Mar B.
I tried this place for takeout last night. I called in and they said 30 min but it took almost an hour for them to get my food ready. I was not impressed with the lamb curry it was runny and just not what I was expecting. I have eaten indian food all over the PNW and I wouldn't eat here again.The owners were nice they did try and gave me tea while I waited but I don't think I would eat here again.
(2)Jon S.
This place is awesome! The owners and the staff are such wonderful people. The restaurant is clean and has a great atmosphere. The food is made fresh and is absolutely delicious. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. The garlic nawn is amazing!
(5)Paragkumar T.
It was the best Indian food in the US... Freshly cooked everything... Mango lassi, naan and curries were the best...
(5)Dustin B.
This place has a nice atmosphere and the food was awesome. They have a tv where they play Indian music videos which was fun. It's a little pricy, but good for occasional date nights. As a warning the food is very spicy. I got the medium and I couldn't go any higher. It's not that it was pure heat, it just has very good seasonings with a kick. Even the mild has a little more kick than you might expect. I thought the mild was reasonable but my mother couldn't take the spiciness even with mild. If you like spicy you'll like the food.
(5)Calli A.
I'm visiting family and friends for the week before heading back to Portland, Or. The Taj Mahal was first introduced to me at the beginning of my trip by friends, and it was such an amazing experience I had to go back once more before leaving. I haven't really delved into the world of Indian cuisine before- but am familiar with curries and what not. This restaurant has opened my eyes to all the spices, textures and flavor profile that is true Indian cuisine. This is not some chain that throws together food in 15mins.... This is made from scratch, using fresh, quality, authentic ingredients and a touch of amazingness. The prices average around $15-$25 an entree- but you will have plenty to take home! Or share (that's the best). The staff is mostly family that owns the restaurant- so they are attentive, efficient, kind and truly the best service you could ask for. The two times I have been to the Taj Mahal have been identical in incredible food quality, taste and service. The brood menu has something for everyone (I highly recommend the coconut curry with halibut) And I would suggest this restaurant to anyone in or visiting boise-whether your an Indian food fan or not- the sheer deliciousness will win you over. Very glad we found this little gem in the heart of downtown. My next trip to Boise- I will be sure to stop in. Probably twice.
(5)Dani S.
We absolutely love this restaurant, one of our favorites in Boise! The owners are so nice and the food is authentic (the wife is cooks in the kitchen while the husband hosts up front). We always come back for the chicken madras and the butter chicken! The lamb dishes are great too. The garlic naan is out of this world, we usually order two! We've tried the other Indian restaurant in Boise and much prefer this one.
(5)Michael Q.
Love the lunch buffet...fabulous beer select...great outdoor seating... good quantity for the price..
(4)M G.
We arrived before 6:00 PM and sat outside. The chairs were terribly stained and rather dirty so we found the cleanest chairs from two other tables. Our server was very nice but the overall service was unbelievably slow. The appetizer, Shami Kabob, was OK. The menu says "minced" steak and it is so finely minced that we couldn't distinguish the meat in terms of texture or flavor. We ordered a beer and a cider and then waited and waited and waited. It took over an hour for us to get our entrees and they were disappointing--surprisingly bland. The Madras Lamb had a few small pieces of lamb in a rather watery curry and the Chicken Biryani, Kashmiri Style, primarily consisted of a lot of bland rice. After our entrees, our server disappeared as the restaurant became full and there were only two servers working, as far as we could tell. We had to go inside and ask for our check. It was expensive and very disappointing.
(2)Chao Z.
This is a pretty good Indian restaurant, food smells good, tastes better. The owner of this restaurant is a nice guy. Definitely recommend to try this!
(5)Tim P.
I went there for the lunch buffet and it was great. Very affordable and all of the food was delicious. Their eggplant and chicken masala both had a very hearty spiciness, and the naan was warm and fresh. I'll be back.
(5)Micah H.
My gf and I had a layover and needed a good place to eat that was quick. The lunch buffet was excellent in taste and variety, and the owner was hilarious and made us feel very comfortable. They have awesome (and huge) mango lassi drinks! Overall an awesome place to eat!!
(5)Leslie W.
The food was really tasty, but the service is horrific. Expect to hang out for an hour after your appetizers and another 30 minutes after you ask for your check and boxes for leftovers.
(3)Matt D.
Owner is warm, welcoming, and helpful. A husband and wife own this place and my girlfriend and I have never had better Indian food. The husband works the front of the house and they wife prepares the meals in the traditional fashion she learned from her mother. In addition to being the best Indian food in Boise it is also the most vegan friendly establishment we have found in Idaho. Even if you still eat meat I would recommend trying some of the dishes listed as vegan on the menu. With all the delicious flavors you won't miss the meat. You won't regret it and you'll make your cardiologist happt too. :^)
(5)Wes M.
Dinner is family style so it's a lot of food for one person. Got my dinner takeout, smells wonderful! After eating... For and Indian place and what you pay, thou my sample of there menu was somewhat limited, I expected the food to be a little more spectacular... I'd try again if I was going with a group..
(3)Robert L.
I had the Goat Biriyani which was absolutely delicious! I will definitely be back and I want to try the lunch buffet.
(5)MyKal L.
Amazing food!! We eat here all the time. The service is a little slow and there's usually a wait for the food, but it's always worth it!! The Taj Mahal is by far my husbands and mine favorite restaurant!!
(5)Emily S.
The food was really good. The location is right on downtown Boise, which is lovely. The service was really nice.
(4)Shane O.
I have been here for both dinner and for lunch. Dinner was great. But the lunch buffet on the weekdays is awesome. The buffet includes a large selection of dishes (both vegetarian and meat based) with lots of flavor and spices for under $10. Nothing overly spicy, but lots of tongue tantalizing flavors. But one of the best parts of the buffet is it comes with FRESH BAKED nan. Piping hot fresh out of the oven it is a great addition to the rest of the meal. Hard working and friendly staff with an owner who is always happy to strike up a conversation if he has the time. If you are looking to enjoy a beer, the banana beer that they have on tap is a pleasant surprise.
(5)Hamza I.
Hands down the best Indian/Pakistani food I've had, I make sure to stop by here everytime I come to Boise I travel quite often with the us navy and haven't found a place of this quality in any of the various duty stations or ports I've visited.
(5)Becky S.
We've tried two of the Indian restaurants in town now (Taj Mahal and Madhuban) - and Taj Majal wins our vote, hands down. First off - the decor and customer service is second to none. We've only been here a few times (twice for dinner and once for lunch), and the owner already recognizes us. The dining room has a living-room quality to it - super comfortable and inviting. The menu is big, but does a great job of explaining each dish - I always have a tough time deciding what to order. There's a decent beer selection, and the hot herbal tea is awesome, a great accompaniment to the food. Ah...the food. If they're busy, it does take a while to prepare, but it's worth the wait. Order naan as an appetizer so you have something to nibble on while you're waiting for your entrees. We've tried the plain, garlic, and chili naans, and love them all (though I wish they'd try using roasted garlic, rather than chopped). The chutney variety provided for dipping is excellent as well. The main entrees can be a little on the oily side, which is something that I've noticed at every Indian restaurant I've visited - 2 in Boise, 1 in San Francisco - so it might be a normal thing...? Regardless, they taste amazing. The levels of spice are exactly to my liking (hot but not too hot), and the basmati rice is good enough to stand on its own!! I always make sure to leave enough for a lunch the next day - the flavors are even better then. If you love spice, or are even remotely curious about Indian food - please stop by. You won't regret it!
(5)Kellen C.
As a Yelp Elite this is the first time I used a free E-Coupon from Yelp and yeah it worked I got a free Samosa even better than that the owner gave us two. The Food is great I had the Tandoori Baba Fish it was the best Fish from an Indian cuisine I have ever had, and very good the owners the woman chef and her husband who is host, waiter etc. The menu is going to run you over $25 a plate but when my lady babies eat everything off their plate I would have bought 4 more plates. The service is slow so you are going to get the true international experience go to India, Africa, Caribbean etc things don't move fast but all the food is cooked from scratch and worth the wait have a nice drink from exotic mango non alcoholic drinks to exotic beers if you enjoy such things. The decor is Awesome I would have not expected this jewel in Boise. I am Loving Boise this is on my list of cities to discover
(4)Ashley F.
They make their own paneer! And it's really good! I'm still stuffed full and have been thinking about the paneer since I left the restaurant two hours ago. Little expensive, but my comparison is cheap veggie Indian places in Vancouver, a maybe this is the norm here. The dishes were slow to come out but we were forewarned that it'd be made from scratch. Totally fine. Pleasant atmosphere. Tasty roti, naan was soooo buttery and delicious. Really nice to see vegan food identified on the menu as well as local goat meat. We had the halibut which was really tasty, I'd never had dish curry before. Staff were super pleasant, welcoming and friendly.
(5)Sandy W.
This is my favorite restaurant in Boise. I've never in my life had food that tasted as good as the Chicken Korma and the Rogan Josh dishes here. And the naan is to die for. Seriously good. Take your time if you go there for dinner, she makes everything from scratch, but it is well worth the wait. Lunch buffet is also fantastic. I'm usually not sure what the dishes are in the buffet, but I'm never disappointed. Everything is delicious.
(5)David L.
Tasty food at a reasonable price. We had the chicken tikka masala, rice, and naan bread baked in their tandoori clay oven. It was good. Everything is made-to-order, so be prepared to wait a little while. I recommend sitting by the big screen TV watching one of the Bollywood hits they have playing (with subtitles, thank goodness). They are open late. We requested mild, not spicy, but it was still hotter that we expected. Taj Mahal is upstairs (take the escalator) next to The Balcony dance club and across the street from Fork. I may be back after trying some of the other Indian places in Boise beforehand.
(3)Todd L.
Best Indian in town.....hands down!
(5)Eric Z.
I thought they had closed shop when I learned they were no longer at their old location. When we saw they had only moved we had to try them out in their new down town location. I don't the know owners name but he is the nicest guy. Very friendly. The food was delicious but it might have been wise for us to confirm what we thought we were ordering. Indian food is delicious but I am horrible at remembering what I ordered before. Unfortunately this review is another victim of my not being able to remember the names of what we ordered. One dish was mostly spinach (a total hit), another was some red chicken dish (perfectly cooked but looked like it was dyed red), and naan which is everyone's favorite. If you know your Indian dishes you won't be disappointed. Kids are always welcome there. Be sure to enjoy downtown while you're there.
(5)Madaddub M.
This was the best Indian food I've had in years. The flavors were bold and well balanced, and clearly everything was made to order with care and fresh ingredients. Although I'm not vegan, my meal was, and it was immensely satisfying. I can't wait to try some of the lamb specialties!
(5)Rachell N.
Great Indian food. The service was a little slow, but maybe it's because everything was homemade? Service is friendly. Food is delicious!
(4)Kyle H.
What an incredibly wonderful place! The man (owner?) was so great! I don't even need to say anything about the food - it was phenomenal! We all passed our dishes around and everyone tried everything - it was delicious. Hands down though the best part was the service. We arrived just before their afternoon break and he insisted we stay- glad we did! The guy was a riot! Cracked jokes, never missed a beat, and took incredible care of us. I'll be back without a doubt.
(5)John V.
In 1631 the emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal out of love for his wife Mumtaz, who died in childbirth. In 2012, four business travellers to Boise came close to having their love of Indian cuisine die after one of the worst overall dining experiences in a long, long time. The owners of the Taj Mahal should be ashamed of themselves for their ineptitude in service and serving their overpriced and middling Indian food. Awful, awful, awful all around. I'd like to quote from some of the other reviews on Yelp of this restaurant before I get into my personal experience: Christy M. gives 5 stars and says 'It is expensive, but that's just Indian food." Ugh, Christy, have you ever been to Devon Ave in Chicago? Cheap and amazing Indian food does go togehter but obviously not here at the Taj. Rina K. gives 3 stars and states: "All of the (vegetarian) curries had a slight spiciness, but ultimately just tasted the same. And were so very oily. So. Heavy." Ugh, then Rina, how could you give 3 stars? Is it really A-OK to have dishes that taste the same and are oily??? Barf. David L. gives 3 stars and states "Everything is made-to-order, so be prepared to wait a little while." Ugh, David, I don't mind waiting a little while, but 42 minutes after being seated we got our one order of vegetable samosa's. Oh yeah, and the inside of the samosas were COLD! Fried food that's cold, now that is really a special trick...this is not Alinea for goodness sake where one may expect a feat like that, where it is intentional, by the chef! Now my turn...the Taj Mahal is located on the second floor of a poorly designed building in downtown Boise, take the escalator up if you must. Once we were seated by the owner we were not acknowledged for at least 15 minutes. The restaurant had a party of 6, a deuce and our party of 4. What is it with Boise restaurants and their inability to greet customers promptly and get water to the table in less than 5 minutes? This is the second Monday in a row that this has happened. Unacceptable. After waiting 15 minutes we thought it would be best if we placed our drink and dinner order at the same time; we ordered one appetizer and our three entrees for sharing. The drink ordering was silly; the owner told one of our dining companions that water was only available for those under 16...ok fine, cute and funny, but then when I said I just wanted water he kept staring at me to add an adult beverage, which I didn't want...the other three people at the table requested beer and wine isn't that enough upselling from water? So one would think that after we ordered our drinks and waters we would get them soon afterwords. We watied another 15 minutes after that! 30 minutes into the dininig experience and our first drinks arrive. WTF? The way the drinks were delivered would have been worthy of a Three Stooges episode: the owner carried two drinks at a time so he had to make three trips to our table to serve our party of four. Why three trips? Two beers, one trip. One water and one white wine, second trip. One water, third trip. Curly, can you buy a beverage tray and do it all in one trip? The samosas arrived to our table, if you recall, 42 minutes after we were seated, with a runny, thin mint chutney, some raita, and a sweet tamarind dipping sauce. They were cold so we asked for another order. With the Jeopardy theme music running through my head I wondered if we were ever going to eat. We should have left at this point and gone to another restaurant. We didn't. Finally our food did arrive. The Chiken Tikka Briyani was OK, but had too much of that fake tasting curry. Chicken Korma and Chicken Tikka Masala were indistinguishable from eachother. I think that's what Rina K. said about her veg enterees...same goes for the chicken dishes. I couldn't discern much, if any difference between the two dishes. Oh yeah, we had some Nan which was by far the best part of the meal. In addition to the extreme wait to get our drinks and our food, the other aspects of service were deplorable. Dirty dishes from the 6 top were never cleared from the dining room so we had a view of their stacked plates and empty glassware throughout our meal. The deuce was desparately looking around to pay someone so that they could leave this hellish restaurant. Another deuce was seated but wisely decided to leave before they got the full Taj treatment. When we were finished with our meal our dishes were never cleared. The owner asked if he could remove my dining companions partially finished beer glass while the remanants of our meals remained on the table. He said 'no, I'm not done with my beer' and then the owner walked away from the table without removing the dirty dishes. Inexplicable. In 1631, Shah Jahan was grief-stricken when his wife died during the birth of their 14th child. In 2012 I was grief-stricken at having chosen to have dinner at Taj Mahal Boise.
(1)Daniel C.
One of two Indian restaurants we tried for lunch while on business in downtown Boise. The buffet looked sorta tiny so we opted for the menu. They have an interesting system where you pick the main dish (chicken, lamb, veggie, cheese) and then pair it with the preparation of your choice (butter, curry, biryani, tomato-like sauce, creamed spinach, etc.). Since it was an Indian/Pakistani restaurant you also get a number of kebab dishes. Overall the food was tasty - I played it safe and got the butter chicken while my coworker (originally from India) ordered Dahl and a vegetarian dish with the cheese. The garlic naan and main entrees were slightly on the oily side, and one reason my coworker pointed out was that the chef was likely Pakistani rather than native Indian, who would tend to use less oil. The owner was very nice and stopped by to chat with us -he was originally from Pakistan. Service was somewhat slow but the food and ambiance of the restaurant somewhat made up for it.
(3)Kelly M.
Wonderful lunch time buffet!!! Owner is extremely helpful, happy to be of any assistance and really made you feel so welcomed and comfortable! Told us the food is nearly all organic, use authentic spices and they had such a great variety! Lots of vegetarian options and served to your table fresh nan! Only thing I could possibly ask for is a second serving of nan and those donut balls for dessert, only because their rice pudding is absolutely amazing!!! Will definitely continue to go!
(5)Nicholas R.
I am ecstatic to say that I can basically cut and paste my review from this restaurants previous location into this one. There are a few subtle changes however, all of which are for the better. The beer selection is wonderful with over 40 varieties of micro-brews for you to choose from, a large portion of which come in 22 ounce bottles. The ambiance is great; it's a kindly toned down version of the old location, complete with Indian music videos playing on an HDTV in the background. The wait staff was very kind, very knowledge, and prompt. The food was excellent and the portions were just right. My dad and I had the Chicken Tikka Masala and the Beef Mughal, both were excellent. They do have a lunch buffet 6 days a week as well, which I'll be visiting soon. This is my new staple Indian restaurant in Boise. Well, it was before they moved form their Fairview location, but now it's much more accessible. Hooray!
(5)Roshan R.
This is seriously the most delicious desi food I've had outside of India! I've been going to the Taj for years now and there is nothing else like it in Boise. The cook is always on point and makes every dish from scratch. Awesome gem in downtown Boise!
(5)Lauren B.
Terrible experience... when our waiter brought us to our table my chair had old food all over it. It was so gross. That's just lazy service and cleanup. The chairs in general are disgusting. They need to take some of their profit and work on updating their dining area or making it look cleaner. This is a family owned and operated restaurant- as we were seated one half of the family was finishing a huge meal together right in the front of the restaurant next to us. 10 minutes later the other half of the family sat down 2 tables away from us to eat and catch up- not to sound disrespectful to them but how annoying to hear them babble on about their life so loudly and at the front of the establishment- is this professional? I didn't want to hear that while enjoying my food. With the family side show and the disgusting chair I was 2 seconds away from walking out, but our food came, and my god it was delicious. Their breads are simply amazing. Our food was the ONLY good thing about our experience. I will never ever go back and will only order from them if it is for take-out. Sorry.
(2)Ken A.
We visited the Taj Mahal for the first time last Saturday. We booked reservations online for 5:30, but probably didn't need them. There were only a few occupied tables when we arrived, and quite a few empty tables when we left. The restaurant itself is wonderfully tacky with crazy 1970s Indian movies playing on a big screen hanging on a wall above a haphazard selection of statues and musical instruments. The service was personable and attentive, to the point where you feel like you are eating in someone's home rather than a restaurant. Our beers were delivered quickly. My wife ordered a chili beer that was pretty spicy (a whole chili is bottled in the beer), and mine was nice and cold. They have a decent selection of imported beer, a smaller selection of wine (I watched a glass being poured from the box of wine stored in the beer fridge, next to the lunch buffet station) as well as a nice selection of sake. I previewed the menu online and I must say it is much easier to follow than the menu you are handed at the restaurant. We had the eggplant apps and the potato with peas apps and they were both good. Will probably skip them next time as they were deep fried and pretty heavy. The three sauces that accompanied them were tasty. For our entrees we shared the Babajan Biryani which was huge (everything is served family style) and wonderfully flavored. We ordered mild spicy and it had just the right amount of heat. We also had the Baba Ji Fish which also had a little kick to it and a fairly small dish compared to the Biryani. The fish was crispy on the outside, but a bit dry inside. Still very good, we just used a bit of the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. The warm Onion Kulcha bread was a perfect accompaniment: crisp, filled with moist onions. We left happy, full and carrying half of our Babajan in a to go container. Overall, the service and the food were very good. My wife and I have already booked a return visit this week. I wouldn't consider us highly educated in Indian cuisine, but we have had wonderful meals in Fez and Marrakech, and Boise's Taj Mahal is a pretty good substitute if you can't get to Morocco for the night.
(4)Rina K.
So this place...just don't go for the lunch buffet? I guess I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't this. There were three vegetarian curries, veggie samosas, two curries with meat, some meat, dressings, and rice pudding. Also naan, which seemed a little inconsistent in texture, but it was still pretty tasty. All of the (vegetarian) curries had a slight spiciness, but ultimately just tasted the same. And were so very oily. So. Heavy. Rice pudding was good. Very cardamom-y. Service was wonderful, though, and made sure we knew that they were there if we needed anything. Perhaps, next time, I will eat regularly there. That may be advisable.
(3)Greg B.
Amazing food, incredibly nice staff, and a great beer list. Love the Bollywood movies playing on the big screen. Vegan dishes and super-convenient when downtown. Don't go here if you are in a hurry, but trust me it is worth the wait.
(5)Darius L.
I was with a client and some coworkers looking for a place to grab a late lunch downtown, we were striking out all over the place. We walked in and the owner and what looked like his mother were sitting there getting a bit of rest before dinner service. Instead of turning us away, they graciously sat us and served us a fantastic meal. The food was paced well and it was prepared fresh with great ingredients. The Taj saved the day and kept us out of some crappy chain restaurant in a strip mall. Get a mango lhassi. It was fantastic.
(4)Captain A.
Really good, but kind of slow. I guess they make everything to-order, and it shows. I chose a Lamb Biryani, and was very happy with the quality and quantity of the main course. I'm not East Indian, but I've eaten enough of that region's cuisine to know the good from the bad, and this is very good indeed.
(4)Eric Z.
Excellent food, was very impressed. Pakistan based Indian cuisine. Mango latisse and raisin Naan were exceptionally unique and tasty. Family owned and operated, great service in a friendly atmosphere. Would definitely return!
(5)Frank A.
Taj Mahal has been my favorite Indian food for six years. I started going when they were in west Boise and was impressed with the quality of the food, the atmosphere, and the extremely courteous service. The Naan bread is excellent, the vindaloos are spicy, and the tandoori chicken haunts my dreams. The new location downtown is convenient for those going to clubs and so forth, and I am happy to report that the food is as good as ever.
(5)Brian S.
Most amazing India/Pakistan food I have ever had in the US. Staff is EXTREEMLY helpful and they make every thing from scratch, so they can work around any food sensitivities. Really amazing and delicious night.
(5)Danica W.
Personally, I like going to this place for dinner the best. They have a great vegetarian/vegan selection, great level of spice and a good beer selection. Their lunch buffet is a little underwhelming compared to Madhuban's and Bombay Grill's, but the server and the owner are very friendly and change up the selection a lot; I've been here a few times during different days of the week, and there is always s couple of new things to try out. I think this place has the best pakora and naan bread. Highly recommended for dinner!
(4)Ben B.
Wow. All I can say is, despite my tendency towards hyperbole, this place made me want to write yelp and ask them to loan me a 6th star. Seriously (and perhaps strangely enough) this is the BEST Indian food I've ever had. Period. You're reading this thinking, 'Boise the best Indian food?!' Yes. The service was top notch and the food even better. The proprietor and his wife are Indian and know what they're doing. He does the front of the house while she cooks up her mom's mom's recipes to perfection. Order the vegetarian kadi, some naan and a beer off the incredible beer list and just enjoy.
(5)Revoir D.
Awesome food! The chefs are actually from India. Authentic naan, tandoori, tikka dishes, etc. The rice pudding is fantastic as a dessert. The service has always been a little slow, but the food is worth it.
(5)Pat S.
Great food. One of our favorite places to eat.
(5)k b.
Wonderful place. All the food is made from scratch so if you are wanting fast or a buffett....there are other places to go. I have had many dishes off the menu and all are delicious. With an amazing selection of import craft beers and also sake and wines. The customer service is great and just ask what you need....extra rice, drinks, or more naan. Dining experience is 90min to 120min
(5)Lisa E.
When the owner brought our food to us, he said, "you are about to have the best Indian food you have ever had." He was right. Great complex flavors, super fresh, delicious! The dishes are a bit pricey but the portions are generous.
(4)Luke C.
Good Indian food. As usual, got the lamb vindaloo with a side of rice and naan. Vindaloo was a little "greasy", if that makes any sense, but good nonetheless. Naan a bit crispy and heavy on the pre-dosed butter, but again, still good. One of the coolest things is the beer selection. I had Cave Creek chili beer, which went good with dinner (for $2). Overall, would recommend and will be back again!
(4)David F.
They moved and it is even better: yelp.com/biz/taj-mahal-b…
(5)Jason S.
Tired of pizza, pasta, or burgers? Try something different! Taj Mahal is one of those gems in the City of Boise that everyone needs to try. The owner was friendly and personable and the food was absolutely amazing. For the timid, try the buffet during the week. It'll give you a chance to sample the different cuisine they offer. For you curry lovers out there, try the buffet during the week. It'll give you a chance to pig out on all the amazing food they got without breaking the bank.
(5)Thuy P.
Ok. 2.5 stars at most. I came here because the rating was so high on yelp and was left yearning for more, not because it was so delicious, but because I had been expecting my craving of Indian food to be fulfilled and was failed. They have a large variety of bottle specialty beers. I ordered chicken vindaloo, onion bhaji, and garlic naan. Naan is hard to go wrong on, I dont remember it being anything special. After ordering and having a beer, my onion bhaji comes out, it was ok, I didn't really like it, the onions were thickly cut and clumped together, not fried very well. I have had way better. My waiter then informed me that the order may be a bit because they make everything fresh, which normally sounds like a great thing, but good Indian food is heavily marinated and it takes cooking marinates time too... So how fresh are they talking about? When the vindaloo dish came out, it didn't look as I expected, it was very watery, I could taste the vinegar in it still which meant it wasn't cooked long enough or marinated long enough. The chicken looked good, but when i bit into it, took my suspect the piece of meat did have the flavoring on the outside, but completely bland on the inside. Super dissappointed. This is not at all an authentic place and very "Americanized." The place probably cooks this way to save on cost since they dont have customers swarming the place. I'm not coming back, this place is like fake Indian cusine, looks like it, but not quite there.
(2)Drew H.
So good! Friendliest people and the food is super tasty. The naan bread is money.
(5)Dylan S.
The good: Quick delivery of food. The not so good: The palak paneer and chicken tikka masala were like soups. Usually they are thicker. Not a lot of chicken or cheese. The naan felt underbaked and doughy. Overall, not a great dining experience.
(2)Janie P.
This place has moved to Downtown Boise and remains the best Indian food in town!!!
(5)Gloria C.
Edit: THEY ARE NEXT TO THE BALCONY DOWNTOWN! WOO HOOO!! With unusually fast food this time. Open Monday-Saturday, tajmahalboise.com There are at least two other Indian places around town, but this is our favorite. Veg Samosas with chutneys. Paneer Mahkni or Palak Subzi Dal. Naan. Mango Lassi. Lamb Biryani or fruit and nut Biryani. Together, the perfect meal (and another the next day). Oh, there's beer, too, seems like a lot of it, am not a beer person, so i stick with the lassi (yogurt drink). The chai's good, too, served hot only. Dinner takes over an hour to complete, don't plan something RIGHT AFTER that you HAVE TO GET TO because it won't happen. Just relax, watch the Indian musicals, and drink your lassi. Anticipate your delicious food. Then, eat your delicious food. Seriously delicious. Have taken several people who've never had Indian to very positive responses, so go and order what I outlined above. This is one of our favorite places.
(5)Dr. Dre W.
The other reviews state the basics. To help your experience I only suggest you make peace with the fact that the food prep is s...l...o...w... which isn't a big deal if you expect it. Be sure to ask for your naan before the meal, so you can enjoy it as an appetizer. Go with good friends, try a variety of beers, and be wowed by the number of costume changes in the Indian music videos. [Do not, under any circumstances, commit the choreography to memory for later use]. When the food finally gets to you, it's worth it.
(4)Tiffeny K.
I want to spread the word about this super spicy, super flavorful, super fresh Indian restaurant. The flavors of their food are nearly indescribable. Each one, like musical notes, is evident and vibrant but together they create a complex and interesting whole. Their chef is the mother of the family who owns the Taj and she cooks from cultural & maternal experience which is what I believe makes the place so special. I ordered the Lamb Rogan Josh and my fiance, the Fish Biryani. We like our food HOT. We specified this from the onset and The Taj did not disappoint. The lamb was succulent, earthy, creamy. Over what can only be described as ethereal basmati rice, (it's all in the clove and the cumin seeds folks), it was a perfect balance between rich & light textures. The fish biryani was brighter in flavor and texture. Did I detect apricots in it? Possibly. I must ask about this next time. The fish was flaky, tender, not in the least bit dry like some dishes that include fish as an ingredient rather than a center piece. Drinks? I was surprised to find that they have as many wine selections as they do, particularly the Cono Sur Viognier which pairs perfectly with the food (thanks to my fiance for his wine guidance here). Mind you the wine list isn't deep, it's just adequate. They really focus on the beer menu. The service is outstanding. Don't be discouraged by reviews that suggest it's slow. It's all made fresh so it takes a while but not too long. Have a glass of wine/beer, some naan and chill out already. Good food takes time. This is food made by a family who treats you like an honored guest. I'll wait for that.
(5)Jewl P.
we were passing through boise and saw the neon signs on the building. we looked at the japanese menu and of course it is a steak house...we are vegan. then we decided to try the taj mahal, even though we have amazing indian in boulder, and so it wasn't really a treat. well, we were wrong! this place was great... from the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly. everyone who worked there, and the owner, were super friendly and helpful. not only are they vegan friendly, they have VEGAN dishes listed on their menu!!! you're just never sure what dishes they might sneak a little cream in, so it was a nice surprise to see this. we ordered the onion baji. it was good but doesn't quite compare with our own bombay bistro who makes the best baji in the world. so i am probably just too spoiled. the mint chutney was really awesome. for dinner, we got banghan barta (very rarely found in vegan form), and spinach sabzi daal. YUMMMMM!!! it has spice, and it is vegan, and it is yummy delicious. the rice was amazingly tasty as well. i think they listened to these reviews, because there is no way i would ever say they did not use enough spice. very very tasty! to top it off, they had mango juice for junior, and a surprisingly diverse list of belgian and specialty beers! so we got indian food and chimay beer...what a combo! we will definitely come back next time!!!
(5)John C.
I've been going here since it was located on the corner of 5-mile and Fairview. Very good indian food. Fresh Nan, wonderful spices, and I loved their Tandoori. They have notorious slow service, but it's worth it. The Owner is very friendly and has a good sense of humor. The decor and atmosphere has changed a lot, most for the better. I do miss the Indian dance videos in the background when I eat.
(4)Nick D.
Good Indian food in a GREAT location! Super-friendly service is a big plus. They even brought fresh naan right to our table. I went for the Lunch Buffet, but look forward to trying their dinner menu. If you are downtown and in the mood for Indian, try Taj-Mahal!!!
(4)John S.
Went there for lunch buffet and found it be only a few items. Very limited selections. Food is good though but wished there was more. Give 3 stars for limited items.
(3)Jen W.
We went to Taj Mahal because it ranked alright on Yelp. It was our first experience with Indian food, and we were disappointed. Our food took a realllllly long time, which we expected since it was made fresh, and we would have been okay with that - until we saw people that came in after us getting their food before us. Then the food itself was really bland which was quite surprising. Service was friendly, but probably wouldn't go back.
(2)Marie J.
Utterly awesome in every way. Curry++ beer list++ served by the owner who was so friendly and hilarious. Amazing experience
(5)Puppilus P.
They get five stars for two reason: service and quality of food. I have been in mobile marketing for over 5yrs. For those of you who don't know what mobile marketing is, it is the promotion of brands, service to consumers or businesses (think of those events that seem to pop up at fairs, festivals, and other events that let you play wiifit, xbox, samples of free food, or teach your kids about science at school), yeah it is 100% travel. I have traveled to every state in the continental USA. I have been vegetarian for 3yrs now so I mainly eat Thai, Indian, Jamaican, and Ethiopian. Boise you have a gem, this establishment is one of the top three indian restaurants in the USA, of the ones i have eaten at and that is over 50 different indian spots. The other two are woodlands in Orlando and Ft. Lauderdale, and New Delhi in San Francisco (when I ate meat and boy I tell you that assorted tandoori platter with meats marinated for a day or two!!!). Taj Mahal's Karahi Paneer was the dish i purchased and it was absolutely amazing, the tart, onion, and spice melts in you mouth. I was so in love at first bite that I came back 3hrs later before I had to drive to my next event in Idaho Falls. The owner was extremely nice, as where his sons, and I thank him for suggesting the Karahi paneer. When you go ask him about the gentleman working for DIRECTV who came twice in one day. Boise I envy you!!
(5)Jane A.
Two thumbs up! The Aloo Gobi (cauliflower and potatoes) and Bhaigan Bharta (roasted pureed eggplant) were delicious and made a great left over lunch the next day. The owner mentioned they would be moving soon, so you might call and confirm their address before showing up. I'm planning on going again during my next visit to Boise.
(5)Michelle N.
LOVE this place! It's located right on 8th street, so super convenient and easy to get to. I don't remember exactly what we ordered, but overall the nana bread, curry, and appetizers were all delicious. Sometimes, they sell mango lasso (is that how you spell it?) which is basically a mango smoothie and one time, the server let us take our entire glass bottle home! The second time we came in, the owners remembered my friend and I and even where we had sat. They obviously pay attention to their customers and care about their business. Not to mention, they were very nice! Totally recommend this place. Who ever said Boise didn't have any cultural food??
(5)R H.
Wow, just checked in to Taj Mahal & now so unhappy! We had Naan & beer & an hour later, still NO food. We asked when our food might be ready & were told "15 minutes, they just started it." So, we asked for our check so we could still make our 8:00 movie, and they still charges is for the Naan!!! Now, I get paying for the beer, but it would have been a better show of sympathy if they has at least comped that. Sorry to say I will NEVER return.
(1)Butter P.
AMAZING food the FRIENDLEST service If yer in Boise andnyern in the mood for spectacular Indian food, you can do no better than Taj Mahal. I'm currently on the road with my band and to come accross a treasure like this is one of ny favirite parts about touring. Seriously, hit em up. Regret it you wont.
(4)Lydier H.
My friend and I really enjoyed the lunch buffet here. We love trying all kinds of curry and discover the our favor ones. We sat outside. Here's no napkins around and it's a little dusty. Just few areas to improve.
(4)A.K. W.
Food is good. Service is super slow- like an hour plus to get your meal. Glasses were chipped and sauces are served with plastic spoons. The server never came back to ask us if we wanted another beer and the glassware smells of bleach. Wanted to like this place, but the service stopped me.
(3)Justin R.
We had the lunch buffet - and it was amazing. Got there right as the place opened and they apologized for taking a minute to have everything out - but we got everything warm and had a mango lassi for the few minutes we waited. The fresh Naan with oil was absolutely fantastic and we were stoked to be having high quality Indian food in Idaho - the owners carried a great conversation with us and really helped the ambiance by being so available and caring.
(4)Caroline T.
Went for the lunch buffet. The owner was friendly and helped us through our first visit there. The buffet had many options but we visited during a time where several dishes and entrees were out. They made the missing entrees fresh and everything was downright delicious! One of my favorite dishes was the one with cauliflower (not sure of the name). Also, their Naan bread was the best I've ever had! Overall, this was a pleasant experience with friendly staff and outstanding cuisine!
(4)Justin H.
This review is going to read a lot like my review of Maru Sushi, so here goes: After being spoiled with the amazing Indian food in Portland (Plainfield's Mayur), San Francisco (Naan n' Curry), and Los Angeles (Manohar's Delhi Palace), we were a little sad to move out to Boise, where we sort of figured mostly white people lived. Couldn't have been more wrong! After striking out at a few pedestrian restaurants (Madhuban, Bombay Grill), we found Taj Mahal. This is easily, EASILY, the best and most authentic Indian restaurant we have ever tried. Be ready for a wait and don't complain about it. Mom is the only cook back there and she is making just about everything from scratch. And it is really, really worth it. So order some garlic-coriander naan, enjoy a beer from their surprisingly large and awesome menu (or bring in a bottle of wine [$10 corkage fee]) and get ready for some spicy awesomeness. Buyer beware: if you order your food prepared at the authentic spice level, you will get your ass kicked. In a delicious and pleasing way. I can't speak highly enough of this restaurant. They took great care of us on our anniversary and I even got some terrific marriage advice from one of the owners. If you fancy yourself an Indian cuisine fanatic, you must try Taj Mahal. Not for the faint of heart or palette!
(5)Bryan G.
I've never experienced traditional Indian food and have only had Curry once prior to my visit. I probably would need more experience visiting other Indian places to get a true understanding of what good Indian good is, but this review will be based off my first time experience. Greeted at the door and was made to feel welcomed. The gentlemen introduced himself and his father. I explained I was a newbie and he guided me through my options. I can't quite tell you the names, but I got an orangish chicken thing and a meatball dish with rice on the side. I was worried about the spice, but I was surprised at how mild it was. noticeable but not overbearing where it ruins the whole meal. I definitely had a pleasant experience and will return again.
(5)Mickey M.
Super friendly & knowledgeable owners. We ordered two curries and the gluten-free naan, all of which was some of the best Indian food we have ever had (and we have eaten a lot of it over the years). The food is made from scratch, and our dishes were ready in 15 minutes. Highly recommend this restaurant if you are in the Boise area!
(5)Missy B.
Abysmal service and mediocre food make this a restaurant we will not visit again. We went as part of a large party with a reservation made several days in advance. I understand that serving a table of ten guests poses extra challenges, but some of their lapses were simply unexplainable. When I say the service was "slow" and "poor," I feel like it doesn't really communicate how bad things were. It took 25 minutes for them to even take our drink order and another ten before we got our beverages. We'd been seated for 45 minutes before they took our food order, and we didn't get our appetizers until we'd been there over an hour. Again, we were a group of ten, not 75, and the restaurant was not busy. My appetizer, naan and different chutneys, was sub-par. The naan was cold and a little dry. The butter they brushed on it had soaked in and congealed. There is no way it was prepared to order, and maybe not even prepared that day. It had to be old. Other diners at our table had better luck with their selections. Some of their naan looked fresh, and the samosas earned a "meh, could be worse" rating, but my dish was an absolute embarrassment. After eating our appetizers, we sat and waited. Then we waited some more. It was over 90 minutes from when we first entered the restaurant before we were served our entrees. We had an 8 year old at the table who was almost in tears from hunger. And then, they forgot the tandoori plate, which, unfortunately, was intended for the little girl. Ten minutes later she was served, only to find that every item was so overcooked it had the texture of jerky. They'd also promised to make it mild, but it was so spicy, nobody at the table could eat it, let alone my niece. Her parents left in disgust to go get her a happy meal. They did not take the "food" with them, as it was inedible, but the owner still charged them. The rest of us had varying opinions of our entrees. Some of the curries received good reviews, but my aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower) was not very good and I wouldn't order it again. It also had the interesting side effect of giving the three people who tried it gastrointestinal distress a few hours later. Perhaps it should have been served with a side of Imodium AD? They finally brought the checks and collected our cards. To nobody's surprise, we were left waiting again. After 20 MORE minutes, we asked about the bill and discovered they'd left the checks (and our credit cards!) on unattended on a table several yards away for who-knows-how-long. We're so lucky nobody stole them! After we left, I checked my bill and saw that the owner charged us for the "free" samosa offer from checking in on Yelp, so be careful if you try to redeem that. As for me, I won't have that problem since I can't imagine anything would convince me to go back. One star for service, two stars for the food. I'm being generous and rounding up to two stars for the overall review, but I think they're really closer to a one.
(2)