"Chances are you’ve driven past an India Sweets & Spices at some point—this tiny Indian market has locations from Culver City to Northridge. But that’s not to say it’s not some mass-produced mini-chain. Each location is independently owned with its own style and character, and most sell hot food items prepared in small takeout counters at the back of the store. At the Fairfax location (just south of Little Ethiopia), it’s all about the biryani. There are several different kinds on the menu ranging from paneer to shrimp, but we like the chicken best, which arrives moist every time (no easy task for a slow-cooked dish like biryani). We prefer to order it spicy, but just know that the chefs don’t hold back on the heat. " - Brant Cox