India at Times Square is a vibrant Indian restaurant located in the heart of New York City's bustling Times Square. This review will delve into the restaurant's menu, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, alongside an examination of the overall dining experience. Knowing what to expect before your visit is key, especially in a high-traffic area like Times Square. We’ll cover everything from the appetizers to the main courses, and even touch on the atmosphere.
A Culinary Journey Through India's Diverse Flavors
India at Times Square boasts a menu that aims to represent the breadth and depth of Indian cuisine. It's not just about butter chicken; they offer a wide array of regional specialties.
Appetizers: A Taste of Tradition
The appetizers section is a solid introduction to the restaurant's culinary approach. We tried the Samosas, which were perfectly crisp on the outside and delicately spiced within. The Vegetable Pakoras, while slightly oily, were generously portioned and flavorful. A standout appetizer was the Paneer Tikka, the cubes of Indian cheese were tender and marinated to perfection. However, the Onion Bhajis were a bit underwhelming, lacking the characteristic crispness we expected.
Main Courses: Regional Delights and Familiar Favorites
The main courses showcase a good mix of both familiar favorites and less common regional dishes. Their Butter Chicken was creamy and rich, a classic done well. The Lamb Rogan Josh displayed a depth of flavor, showcasing the Kashmiri spices beautifully. For vegetarians, the Saag Paneer was a comforting and satisfying choice, the spinach cooked to a perfect consistency. However, the Vindaloo, while boasting a good kick, felt a little rushed in its preparation; the spices weren’t as well-balanced as in other dishes.
| Dish | Description | Price Range | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samosas | Crispy fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes | $8 - $12 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Vegetable Pakoras | Fritters made with assorted vegetables | $9 - $13 | ⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Paneer Tikka | Marinated Indian cheese cubes | $10 - $15 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Onion Bhajis | Onion fritters | $7 - $11 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Butter Chicken | Creamy tomato-based chicken curry | $15 - $20 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Lamb Rogan Josh | Aromatic lamb curry from Kashmir | $18 - $23 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Saag Paneer | Spinach and Indian cheese curry | $14 - $19 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Vindaloo | Spicy Goan pork curry | $17 - $22 | ⭐⭐⭐½ |
Desserts: A Sweet Ending
The dessert menu offers a few classic Indian sweets. We sampled the Gulab Jamun, which were soft, spongy, and perfectly syrupy. The Kulfi (Indian ice cream) was a refreshing end to a hearty meal.
Ambiance and Service: The Times Square Experience
Dining at India at Times Square offers a unique experience. The restaurant is located in a high-energy part of the city, and the atmosphere reflects that. It can be quite noisy, especially during peak hours. The service is generally efficient, although it can be a little rushed during busy periods. The decor is modern and clean, offering a comfortable setting despite the surrounding chaos.
Overall Impression: A Solid Choice in a Busy Location
India at Times Square provides a reliable Indian dining experience in the heart of Times Square. While it may not be the most authentic or nuanced Indian restaurant in the city, it delivers consistently good food in a convenient location. The menu offers a good variety, catering to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar favorites. The slight drawbacks in some dishes and the bustling atmosphere are offset by the generally high quality and convenient location. If you're looking for a quick and satisfying Indian meal in Times Square, India at Times Square is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a bit of noise and possibly a slightly hurried service during peak hours.
