Indian Aroma

My husband and I were happy to finally try this restaurant since last we tried to visit, it was closed for the afternoon break. This was our first visit here, so we were relying on the good reviews to hopefully make this our go-to Indian restaurant in town. We went on a Wednesday afternoon around 5:15pm before the dinner crowd. Parking in the nearby free garage was perfect timing since many workers and patients of the nearby UF medical center had already left for the day. Only one other couple was dining in, and there were a lot of take out orders being picked up. The place was well-lit, clean, and had ample space. We were greeted and seated almost immediately. Scout was our waitress and Deepak was the host. Menu has all the Indian cuisine staples that we expected - we ordered 3 orders of garlic naan, fried rice with veggies and egg, chicken tikka masala, aloo gobi (potato & cauliflower side dish 😋) - all with medium spiciness - with mango lassi and masala Chai tea for drinks. While waiting for our orders, we washed our hands and the single-occupancy restrooms were clean and stocked. The only downside to the facilities in general are the slightly hard chairs / benches as these were possibly made with the intention of not spending too much time in the restaurant 😉 or for people with more natural padding in that area 🤣. The naan arrived about 10 minutes later, followed by the rest of the food. The naan was excellent - just the way we like it (not too soft, not too crunchy, with enough garlic oil for taste). The basmati rice was cooked just right in the individual bowls and also in the generous portion of the fried rice. It was my first time trying the aloo gobi, and I loved it! I never knew about this dish, and my husband said it was a must try. I also tasted his chicken tikka masala, and it was also made deliciously. The drinks were also great - mango lassi was fresh and not too sweet. Masala Chai tea was exactly how I imagined it would be. Overall, we spent around 1 hour and about $100 on our date here, including generous tip. We'd be glad to come back to try more dishes and garlic naan 😍. Thanks for a fun and tasty foodie experience!

Absolutely blown away by my experience at Indian Aroma — easily a 10/10! From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with warm hospitality and the rich, inviting aroma of authentic Indian spices. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. Now, the food — incredible. Every dish we ordered was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The butter chicken was creamy and perfectly spiced, the lamb biryani was fragrant with just the right amount of heat, and the garlic naan was soft, fresh, and addictive. Even the vegetarian dishes like the paneer tikka and chana masala were stars in their own right. What truly set Indian Aroma apart was the attention to detail and the passion you can taste in every bite. The staff were knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely eager to ensure we had a fantastic experience. If you’re craving high-quality Indian cuisine that’s both authentic and memorable, Indian Aroma is the place to go. Can’t wait to come back!

We loved our multiple dishes. Clearly a family run restaurant with immense pride put into all aspects of their restaurant. We look forward to many more meals shared there.

A True Indian Delight! Indian Aroma blew me away! The Tandoori Chicken was smoky and tender, the Mulligatawny Soup hearty and flavorful, and the Chana Masala absolutely delicious. The Masala Chai was perfectly spiced, and the Mango Lassi was smooth and refreshing. Incredible food, warm service—highly recommend!

The new Indian cuisine restaurant in the town is fantastic. The food is great, service is courteous and atmosphere is decorated. I went to have trial for my Valentine day feast for my Wife and kids and everybody liked it! My kids also loved the mild spicy version of butter masala and we rejoiced the hot version of biryani. The fried rice was bombastic. The naan was great! Samosa was authentic! Hope to see the place time and again!

5 stars all around. This southern Indian cuisine will have you wanting to come back for more! The food was flavorful and the service was amazing!

After a long day of unloading luggage from the U-Haul and shifting everything from one unit to another, we were completely exhausted—and craving something comforting. That’s when we decided to try the chicken biryani from Indian Aroma, and let me just say: it made our evening! The portion size was good, and the first bite instantly reminded us of authentic homestyle Indian biryani. The rice was perfectly cooked, and the blend of spices was spot on flavorful, rich, and aromatic. It truly lived up to the restaurant’s name. You could taste the pure Indian spices and the slow-cooked magic in every bite. This wasn't just a meal...it was comfort food at its finest, especially after such a hectic day. The aroma was irresistible, the chicken was tender, and every spoonful brought joy and relaxation. If you’re missing the taste of real Indian biryani, this one won’t disappoint. Highly recommended... I would personally go for dine-in experience at this one and try out their other menus as well that's why one star less (4/5).

We were traveling from Atlanta to Orlando for the holidays and decided to stop in Gainesville for dinner on Christmas Eve. With 6 adults and 8 kids (yes, 8 kids—just imagine the chaos 😅), we ordered a lot of food. In total, we ended up trying 12 dishes from the menu 🙈—and honestly, every single one was fantastic! This place is truly a hidden gem 💎 that brings authentic Indian flavors to life. A must-try spot for dine-in! Here are my top 5 favorites from the feast: 1. Chicken Tikka Kabab: The flavors were out of this world—so rich and authentic, it reminded me of Indian dhabas (roadside eateries). 2. Chicken/Baby Corn Manchurian: The taste and aroma were spot-on—just the right amount of spice and tang. 3. Garlic & Butter Naan: Soft, buttery perfection. This naan was clearly made with love. 4. Chicken Tikka Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of goodness. 5. Samosa Chaat: This is a must-try! Tangy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible. We were so full by the end that we didn’t get to try the biryanis—though I’m already planning a pit stop on our way back to update this review! For the kids, we ordered Chicken Hakka Noodles (mildly spicy), and let me tell you, they devoured it. They even asked for a second plate, which I happily ordered. My cousin’s eldest (who’s just 8, mind you) declared, “This is the best Indian food I’ve ever had in my entire life!” 😂 Talk about a food critic in the making! Don’t leave without trying the Mango Lassi. It’s refreshing, creamy, and the perfect way to end your meal. The portions are generous, the prices are fair, and the quality is top-notch. Plus, the staff are so friendly and attentive—they really made the experience special. Lastly, the interior design deserves a shoutout. It’s vibrant, colorful, and authentically Indian, adding to the overall charm of the place. In short, this restaurant is a treasure worth visiting. Can’t wait to come back for round two!

So I placed an order for pick up - so this is my experience from the call in to pick up. I called right around 5pm when it stated they were open for dinner service. The person on the line was very nice and great with recommendations. I ordered the butter chicken (medium spice), garlic naan, and a mango lassi. She told me it would be about 30 minutes. Once I arrived, this business is located in the old Blue Gill location and fortunately they have signs for parking. As I had never been to the old Blue Gill, it was my first time inside and wow it's huge inside. Also, it's beautifully decorated. For all three items, it was about $25. Once I arrived home, I was excited to try everything. For starters, the mango lassi has a thick consistency and immediately you are hit with the sweet and spice taste of the mango and cardamom. It was really good but a little sweet for my taste. Onto the butter chicken that came with basmati rice was filled with buttery and rich flavors. The medium spice was subtle without overpowering the flavors of the butter chicken. The portion size was pretty good for leftovers. Now that garlic naan was a great recommendation and it was garlicky, fresh, and buttery. This naan came with 2 large pieces and obviously you have to dip it in the sauce to enjoy all of the deliciousness. Highly recommend getting that garlic naan. I definitely will be back soon!

Chicken dish I ordered had grease soaked black crusty pieces in it and was not fresh tasting It was just warm , and not much flavor The bread was burned on one side Very disappointed

Spice is right! Indian Aroma in Gainesville Had been hearing about a new Indian spot in town and finally made it to Indian Aroma on SW 13th. We showed up early, seated right away, right up front. The staff was soft-spoken, kind, and super polite--very helpful with the menu. We started with the Cut Mirchi--light, airy, and seriously spicy. Fun snack, great crunch, packs a punch. It comes with cilantro lime chutney for bright and fresh, and that tamarind chutney brings in the sweet contrast. Main dishes we had: - Chicken Butter Masala (medium spicy): Creamy, velvety, and rich with that signature sweet tomato flavor. It came out piping hot--needed a few minutes to cool--but worth the wait. Great flavor, and the chicken paired beautifully with the sauce and basmati rice. - Tandoori Malai Chicken Tikka Kebab: (Hot) juicy, flavorful chicken - perfectly grilled - smoky flavor of the tandoor complements the creamy base. I do suggest to not forget to ask for a side of rice--it's worth perfect accompaniment. The garlic naan and butter naan--warm, chewy, crispy at the edges. Perfect for scooping, dipping, or honestly just eating on its own. The space itself is very open dining simple and clean. Music kicked in halfway through, which helped make the vibe feel so needed!! This spot feels authentic, approachable, and full of flavor.

Delicious food in a hidden spot! Butter chicken and tikka masala, both medium spice, were both so good with an enjoyable level of heat added. Service was good, portions were fair, and cute interior! Highly recommend the garlic naan! Will be back.

We came here for a date night and really enjoyed the food. We ordered the Samosa- Aloo and they were great small bite to eat before we got our entrees. The garlic naan and chicken tikki masala was delicious and you can decide how spicy you want it. We also had the Hakka noodles but they were okay.

It was great delicious fun to try this new Indian restaurant in Gainesville. When you navigate there, you can drop people off but parking is upstairs in a free garage. The space is large and clean and includes a separate event room. We ordered samosas, biryani, cut mirchi and more and enjoyed it all. Everything is made to order so be prepared to wait a little while. Good food takes an appropriate amount of time to prepare. Spice level can be specified so no worries on the heat, if that is not for you. Life is good with a new tasty restaurant in Gainesville!

I had lunch today at Indian Aroma, the food was so good. The wait staff was very friendly and made sure we were ok throughout the dining experience. I started with the chick pea salad which was very fresh and crisp. no need for the salad dressing which came on the side. The portion was large enough to share. My entree of Tikka chicken Marsala and rice came out piping hot and I shared this as well. You can order the entree with different spice levels, I ordered medium spice level which was not spicy at all. You must order the Naan, garlic was my choice. The naan was thin and crispy melts in your mouth, I used it to dip in my Tikka Chicken masala. Yummy! If you have not visited you must go and there is parking in the garage behind and next to the building.

Phenomenal food and great prices!! Everything feels fresh to order and is absolutely delicious. I love the filter coffee and sometimes stop on my way to class just to grab a cup. Very close to Shands for any hospital employees and quick for pick up orders as well! The owner seems to be a foodie herself and is clearly passionate about serving delicious food. We heard a rumor the menu will be expanded in the summer and I can't wait to try it!

Food good. Menu options not as plenteous as Indian Cuisine on SW 34th Street. Would go again. Think naan at Indian Cuisine is better or, maybe, it is simply that to which I most accustomed.

Was very excited to try this new Indian restaurant. The space is large, rather cavernous, not cozy. It appears to be a family owned and ran business. The night I was there it was very cold outside and not very busy. The service was very friendly and good, but I worry they could get overwhelmed on a busy night. The menu is small but I like that they don't try to do too much. Some of my favs were not on the menu but everything we ordered was delicious. Was gonna give them 4 stars because of the parking garages but not fair to the delicious food.

I have eaten at a lot of Indian restaurants from coast to coast and this is going down in my list as one of the best I've ever been to. From the moment you walk in the door, you're greeted with the smell of delicious spices and colorful decor. The friendly staff were happy to chat and make recommendations, and the food was delivered quickly. Loved it and will be going back often!

Food is usually good. Just a suggestion on the packaging for the check out. We ordered samosa chaat and paneer tikka masala for the take out. When it reached, the gravy of white box leaked a bit and made other boxes messy. Deepak was the server for A-013 order on 26 June 2025. 7:04 pm. Suggest to either seal the boxes with tape or wrap it tight with shrink film.

Came on a busy Friday night, but easily seated after making a reservation. It is clear they care a lot about the service, they're still finding their footing but the great thing is their food is awesome. We got the tomato soup, paneer tikka, malai kofta and garlic naan and it was all so tasty. The garlic naan and paneer tikka is some of the best we have had. Also don't sleep on the mango lassi it completed the meal. Would recommend this place and will be back

My name is Devika Krishnan and celebrated my mom's 90th birthday on 29th June at this restaurant. The owners Vijay and Raji are very friendly and the lunch menu was sumptuous, the service and taste of the food, and the ambiance were terrific. We had a fun filled time with the birthday song was played and got cheered by the service providers. I strongly suggest this restaurant is amazing and we wish the owners best of luck.

Stopped in during a visit with my daughter to UF. Everything was amazingly delicious. We both had butter chicken with garlic naan. To die for! The staff is amazing and made us feel welcome.

Very very very good! Started with some garlic naan and onion samosas. Came out warm and delicious. I had tandoori chicken and my wife had the tandoori kabobs. Came out on steaming sizzling plates and cooked to perfection. Service was very friendly, helpful and attentive. And a great value for the portions sizes. Will absolutely come again.

Came here with my family and the food was delicious and the service was excellent! Cant wait to come back! Best I've had in Gainesville!

Food was good, tasty and hot (nice portion size as well). Much needed on a cold day. Service was excellent. Food came quick and staff was nice. Restaurant was clean.

AMAZING!!! Great atmosphere, fantastic service and amazing food. The food is nothing short of exceptional My new favorite place!!!!!!!!

INSANELY good for Gainesville. Granted I'm just a white girl but this is my new favorite. Finally a place to look forward to other than dragonfly

Best Indian in Gainesville in my opinion. Also decent prices for the amount given. Very cute on the inside and colorful. I heard about this place from a friend and it did not disappoint

I tried tandoori chicken with plain naan. It was awesome. Also the masala chai is a nice choice for this chilling winter.

The food is delicious! My roommates and I had butter chicken and garlic naan and it was amazing. We also had gulab jamun, and it was incredible! It's one of my favorite foods and we will definitely be back soon.

Excellent tikka masala. Good service, nice space (the old Blue Gill). Good naan bread too.

The food was yummy! It's a larger restaurant with a cool bar that's still being set up. The service was great and overall we liked it.

Best Indian food I've had in a while. Fantastic food, service, and atmosphere! Our new favorite restaurant in Gainesville!

Food amazing! Service attentive! Ambiance welcoming. Our waiter Krishna was very knowledgeable. I brought my family to dine in and will be back again and again.

Excellent food. Smells great walking through the door. Really glad to finally have good Indian food in Gainesville. Service not really on it though. I'd rather order, pay at a window and pick it up from the counter than fall asleep waiting for the check to get to the table.

The food was good the service was great and the ambience was rajasthani style. The food could be better