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"I left Commonwealth Indian with a largely glowing two-star ("good") impression: the stunning decor — including two-dimensional Bengal tigers and an ornate, gold-painted ceiling — and effusive service make you feel glad to be there from the moment you step inside, but behind the glam is a chef who makes you want to return for pleasing takes on Indian tradition. Chef-owner Sunil Bastola focuses mainly on northern India while representing the south (see Chettinad murgh), and the surprise crowd favorite was the yellow crab curry ($25): jumbo lump crab simmered in coconut milk, bright with turmeric and racy with red chile. Every order comes with a medley of irresistible quarter-size papadums, mango chutney and raita (which helps beat the heat), and the weekend brunch buffet (under $20 with bottomless mango lassi) leaves plenty to explore and like." - Tierney Plumb