Looking to try the flavours of one of the oldest civilisations in the world without the indigestion? Check out India Palace.
Like the food, the atmosphere at the Al Mazyad Mall branch is surprisingly warm and authentic – once around the corner, the food court outside fades away and it’s all ornate woodwork and authentic India furnishings and colours. Even better, anyone looking for a little privacy can shut out the world behind the gauzy curtains of the booths.
We started with the murg tinka and chicken satay cleverly skewered and served impaled and encased within a tomato – tasty and easy on the palate. Ditto the paneer shalimar; it looks like a spring roll but tastes like excellent, lightly fried cheese and the rich tomato dipping sauce provides a bit of warmth without the kick.
If you like a little heat, you’ll love the lamb rogangosh, a delicious curry of tender boneless lamb cooked traditionally in a sealed vessel, and the murg tikka masala; chunks of barbeque chicken simmered to perfection with onions and peppers in a rich tomato sauce.
Find the flavours of India are too hot? Take small bites mixed with white or saffron rice, or scoop up each bite the traditional way with a bit of garlic or butter naan bread. Not hot enough? You’ll find chutney and chilli on the table to really turn up the heat.
While India Palace is more expensive than the fast food joints on offer outside, it’s easy to fill up without spending a lot. These are the people who invented the biryani to feed the masses after all, so you can get your fill and still leave with money in your pocket.
What? India Palace
Where? Mazyad Mall and Al Salam Street
Cost: Mains run between AED 20 and 55 – two can eat like a Mughal for well under AED 200
Why? Yummy flavours and good prices; a little goes a long way plus they deliver and cater
Why not? It’s hard to escape the heat – of the food, that is. Extra tender tongues may suffer
We say: Have a little culinary adventure and give it a try
Contact: 02 553 2259 Mazyad Mall
02 644 8777 Al Salam Street
