"At night, the scene at this Indian restaurant in Cumberland stays relatively quiet, aside from the Bollywood music videos on the TV and a few families sharing thalis of creamy paneer butter masala, tasty dal, and gulab jamun. But when Swapna opens its lunch buffet, the place really comes alive. Forks clank and folks shuffle out of booths to go for their umpteenth helping of tandoori chicken. Come then. The rotating buffet is the best way to try Swapna's various North and South Indian dishes and Indo-Chinese staples. Yes, we’re looking at you, crispy mushroom manchurian, creamy sambar, and those flaming red, expertly spiced tandoori chicken thighs. Food Rundown Cut Mirchi This fried starter isn't always on the buffet line. But you can order the dish a la carte. The hot peppers are coated in a thick, spiced chickpea batter that feels dense enough to cut into your hunger but light enough not to spoil your dinner. Just remember the side of sweet chutney sauce if you need to cool your tongue. Mushroom Manchuria Swapna usually has a manchurian option on the buffet line, and this is our favorite one. Pieces of meaty mushroom are battered in thick corn flour then sautéed with chunks of onions, peppers, and a sweet chili sauce. Dal Tadka Sometimes this lentil staple is on the buffet line. And sometimes it’s offered as a side on the Thali-style dinners. We understand if you want the entree version, though. That way you can fully devour this creamy, spice-rich dal in a giant portion. Boneless Lamb Biryani No need to send a search party—this biryani is packed with huge chunks of seasoned lamb. You can usually expect it on the buffet if you’re here for lunch. Tandoori Chicken It’s hard to miss these well-seasoned bright red beauties on the buffet. They usually accrue their own line of folks waiting for the kitchen to drop a fresh-from-the-tandoor batch. Follow suit, and get some too." - Nina Reeder
