Banjara

Indian, Banjara region / $

97 1st Ave. at E. 6th St.
6 train to Astor Place, L to 1st Ave. & 14th St.
(212) 477-5956, 473-1540, fax 533-2676

Dinner 7 days, 5:30 PM-midnight;
lunch Sat-Sun only, 11:30 AM-2:30 PM
No reservations needed
Takeout & delivery available
Visa, MC, AmEx, Discover

With mirror shards on walls and ceiling, ample light from both sides of its corner location, and one of the more winning culinary personalities on East 6th Street's Indian restaurant row, Banjara is a hot date for lovers of subtle spicing. The star appetizer is Dhakshin Se Shuru (crepes with potato, onion, and nut stuffing plus rice/lentil patties with two dipping sauces) but the Chandi Kebab (pistachio-coated chicken) and not at all greasy samosas with peas also impressed us. Vegetarians—and everyone else—will love Mushroom Hari Noti, with fresh (not frozen or canned) peas and big hunks of mushroom in yogurt sauce. Dumpakht—Indian pot pies—come in copper dishes with lamb, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. Indian, Belgian, American, and English beers are served. Go for Newcastle Brown Ale on tap.

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