Heart of India, a beloved Indian restaurant in Buffalo, NY, has earned a reputation for its authentic flavors and extensive menu. This review delves into the restaurant's offerings, highlighting both popular dishes and hidden gems, to give you a comprehensive understanding of what awaits you at Heart of India. We'll explore the menu, focusing on popular choices and customer favorites, and provide an overall assessment of the dining experience. The Heart of India menu boasts a wide array of dishes, from classic curries to tandoori specialties.
Appetizers: A Taste of India
The appetizer section of the Heart of India menu in Buffalo offers a delightful introduction to Indian cuisine. Samosas, crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas, are a must-try. Their onion bhajis, lightly fried onion fritters, are another popular choice, offering a subtly sweet and savory flavor. For a more adventurous palate, the pakoras, vegetable fritters dipped in chickpea batter, provide a crispy and flavorful experience.
Popular Appetizer Choices:
| Appetizer | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Samosas | Spiced potato and pea filled pastries | $5 - $8 |
| Onion Bhajis | Lightly fried onion fritters | $6 - $9 |
| Vegetable Pakoras | Vegetable fritters in chickpea batter | $7 - $10 |
| Chicken Tikka | Marinated chicken pieces, grilled in tandoor | $9 - $12 |
Main Courses: A Culinary Journey
Heart of India's main course selection is extensive, catering to various tastes and preferences. Their butter chicken, a creamy tomato-based curry with tender chicken, is a timeless favorite. The vindaloo, a fiery Goan curry, offers a bold and intense flavor profile for those who enjoy a spice kick. For vegetarians, the chana masala, a chickpea curry in a rich tomato sauce, is a satisfying and flavorful option. Don't overlook their lamb rogan josh, a slow-cooked Kashmiri lamb curry known for its rich and aromatic flavors.
Main Course Highlights:
- Butter Chicken: Creamy, mildly spiced, classic Indian comfort food.
- Vindaloo: A spicy Goan curry with a kick – not for the faint of heart!
- Chana Masala: A hearty vegetarian curry with chickpeas in a flavorful sauce.
- Lamb Rogan Josh: Slow-cooked lamb in a rich, aromatic Kashmiri sauce.
- Vegetable Biryani: A mixed vegetable and rice dish, fragrant and flavorful.
Exploring the Tandoor: Grilled Delights
Heart of India's tandoor oven is a focal point, producing succulent grilled meats and vegetables. Their tandoori chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices then cooked in the tandoor, is a popular choice, offering tender, juicy meat with a smoky char. The tandoori lamb chops are another highlight, delivering a robust, flavorful experience. For vegetarians, the tandoori vegetables provide a delightful alternative, showcasing the tandoor's ability to enhance the flavor of vegetables.
Tandoor Specialties:
- Tandoori Chicken: Classic Indian grilled chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices.
- Tandoori Lamb Chops: Succulent grilled lamb chops, marinated in a flavorful blend.
- Tandoori Vegetables: Assorted grilled vegetables, bursting with smoky flavor.
Sides and Breads: Completing the Meal
No Indian meal is complete without naan bread. Heart of India offers a variety of naan, including plain, garlic, and butter naan. Their basmati rice is fluffy and fragrant, a perfect accompaniment to any curry. They also offer a selection of other sides, like raita (yogurt dip) and chutneys, to enhance the overall dining experience.
Accompaniments:
- Naan: Fluffy leavened bread, available in various flavors.
- Basmati Rice: Fragrant long-grain rice, a staple of Indian cuisine.
- Raita: Cooling yogurt dip, often flavored with cucumbers or mint.
- Chutneys: Sweet, sour, or spicy accompaniments.
Overall Assessment: A Buffalo Gem
Heart of India provides a consistently excellent dining experience. The food is fresh, flavorful, and authentic. The service is generally friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is welcoming, creating a comfortable environment for enjoying a delicious Indian meal. While prices are on the higher side compared to some other Indian restaurants, the quality of food and service justifies the cost. Whether you're a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Heart of India is a must-visit when exploring Buffalo's culinary scene. Its consistently high ratings and positive reviews cement its position as a top choice for Indian food in Buffalo. We highly recommend trying their butter chicken, tandoori chicken, and naan bread – a classic combination that never disappoints. Remember to check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date menu and pricing.
