"If you’re in the market for a favorite Indian spot, Basant might be it. This North Center restaurant has a menu full of hits, from starters like mushroom kulcha and jackfruit cutlets, to pork belly vindaloo tonkatsu and spice-rubbed seared lamb chops. Not only is the food really good, but this place works well for a bunch of situations. They make great cocktails and the big, bright dining room is great for both group dinners and casual date nights. Oh, and there’s a covered sidewalk patio. So unless you just don’t like eating delicious things, there are very few scenarios where Basant isn’t a good option." - adrian kane, veda kilaru, john ringor