The Bombay Brasserie

After seeing Bride and Prejudice (see previous post), I was craving Indian food. We hauled out the Entertainment book and looked for a place close by. The nearest Indian restaurant is The Bombay Brasserie, and I am very glad it is. When you enter the restaurant, the air is perfumed with the perfect aroma of food and spice. It's not too heavy and not "too curry, " but it is pleasantly noticable as you enter. The restaurant is lovely with dark wood, stained glass, and white table linens. They even have a wine room.

The food is amazing! From the complimentary papa (a thin and crispy lentil bread) served with a wonderful sweetly spiced tamarind sauce. The presentation of each dish is lovely, and the textures and flavors are perfect. We ordered samosas (crispy turnovers stuffed with spicey potatos and peas- like an Indian spring roll), vegetable bhriyani (a light basmati rice cooked with vegetables, fruits and nuts) and saag paneer (creamed spinach with chunks of homemade cheese).

The service was the best I ever had in Houston. The waiters were attentive without being cloying. The water stayed refilled and the owner brought us paneer tikka (fried homeade cheese in spiced graham flour) just to try. We were given a crisp, cold cucumber and tomato salad with our meal. The staff answered our questions with patience, and at the end of our meal the owner brought us some tamarind sauce to take with us after noticing how much we enjoyed it. Now we just have to figure out where to get some papa to dip in it. Marilyn and I are in agreement, this is one of the best dining experiences we have ever had and we are both looking forward to going back again soon. If you are in Houston and looking for a GREAT Indian restaurant, this is the place.