Elizabeth F.
Yelp
Hmmm, not sure how to word the ambivalence I feel towards our experience on this, our first visit. I have been eyeing Indibar for about a month now and made reservations for my husband and me. It's Memorial Day weekend, so Sunday dinner out on the town sounded like a great idea. I ignored a few of the not-so-great reviews, thinking not everyone is inspired by innovative spins on traditional Indian food. I was hopeful and excited, anticipating a stellar experience. Well, it was a mixed bag for sure.
Loved...the ambience.
The decor is Representative of an elegant, regal, both historical and modern India. The restaurant was clean and spacious, with comfortable seating. The menu was easy to read due to the addition of a glossary.
Loved...the service.
Attentive, knowledgeable, efficient, courteous, and kind.
Loved...the cute to-go bag!
Met one of the chefs - Nigel, who was initially hospitable, said he would be back to check on us, but never did.
Appetizer: Murgh Khatta Pyaaz Kulchette
Flavors were very good, didn't really see any sundried tomatoes or mozzarella, just a mash-up of well-spiced chicken on a naan bread.
Main Dish: Here's where I knocked off a star. The initial serving was barely warm, yet the meat was tender and fell off the bone. We sent the dish back after confirming it was meant to be a hot dish. When it was re-served, the meat was tough and just a tad bit warmer than the first serving. I would sincerely hope a microwave was not used to reheat the dish, therefore making it tougher. I certainly don't want to believe a restaurant of this caliber would do such a thing, assuming, of course, that there is a microwave in the kitchen. The sauce that accompanied the ribs was underwhelming, making the dish itself kinda meh. In addition to the meal being served cold, the rice and bread got cold as well, and replacements were sent, yet the timing of it all was off. We were offered a free dessert, which we declined, yet did accept a Masala Chai.
Masala Chai: Presentation was STELLAR! Cute little teacup, yet surprised that it was plastic. I always, always wish to have biscuits with my tea, yet never have at an Indian restaurant, so kudos to Indibar for adding little heart-shaped cookies! That is where the good things about the tea end. The Masala Chai was overly gingered, tasted more like a ginger tea with milk than what is customarily more evenly spiced. I like a bit of ginger, but this was more than a bit, which made it hard for me to enjoy sipping.
Prices were expectedly higher, yet for us, probably not worth it for the food. If you are charging for ambience and aesthetics, then perhaps it's worth a shot.