Dana Pani Indian Cuisine — Restaurant in Lulu Island

Dana Pani Indian Cuisine Review

• Location: 805 Boyd St J120, New Westminster, BC V3M 5X2, located in SmartCentres Queensborough Landing.

Service: The service was commendable, with attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience. It deserves an 8 out of 10.

Overview: Dana Pani Indian Cuisine stands out as one of our favorite Indian restaurants and a hidden gem in the area. We visited for a quick bite and were thoroughly impressed by the quality and flavor of the dishes.

Food:

• Appetizer: We started with a large portion of vegetable pakora. These were excellently prepared, with a perfect fry and a well-balanced seasoning blend. The appetizer sets a promising tone for the meal and merits an 8 out of 10.

• Main Course: We opted for the Tiffin Thali, a diverse and satisfying selection that included both vegetarian and non-vegetarian items, rice, naan, and raita.

• Palak Paneer: This dish, a staple of North Indian cuisine, features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich, flavorful spinach-based sauce. The spinach is blanched and pureed to a smooth consistency, then sautéed with onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, along with a medley of spices. It was expertly prepared and rates an 8 out of 10.

• Chicken Tikka Masala: Known for its vibrant orange color and rich, creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce, this dish did not disappoint. The balance of flavors and the aromatic quality of the sauce were excellent. It earns an 8 out of 10.

• Chana Masala: This dish features chickpeas cooked in a spicy and tangy tomato-onion gravy. It is a staple in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. While tasty, it lacked the depth of flavor found in the other dishes and receives a 7 out of 10.

• Butter Chicken: A personal favorite, this dish featured a creamy, luscious sauce with tender, delicious chicken. It stood out as the highlight of the meal and deserves a 9 out of 10.

Ambiance: The ambiance is modest but comfortable. While the space is small, it is adequately maintained and provides a cozy setting for dining.

Price: The pricing is very affordable, making it an excellent option for those seeking quality Indian cuisine without breaking the bank. 2/5

Verdict: Dana Pani Indian Cuisine is truly a hidden gem and one of the best Indian restaurants in the area. The variety and quality of the food are outstanding, and the affordability adds to its appeal. For those who enjoy spicy food, it’s worth noting that while the dishes are flavorful, they cater to various spice preferences, offering non-spicy, medium, and very hot options. Overall, it’s a restaurant we will certainly return to and...

The food was OK. Not bad but definitely not even close to the best. I tried it because they had a family pack that says add 3$ for a second large meat curry when it comes with 1 meat and 1 veggy curry already. When I got home and checked the bill and found I got charged full price for the second meat curry. When I called they told me add 3$ for a second large meat curry is if you want to get a second meat curry instead of the veg curry. Totally false advertising. I got it for the price but in the end I got charged more then if I ordered from a well prepared big Indian restaurant and got lower then expected quality of food. The all the curries were like they added the sauce to whatever meat or veg you order because they were all undercooked and hard. I ordered lamb that tasted very gamey with lots of fat in it and hard to chew. Butter chicken was again hard to cut and chew, China masala the chickpeas was so hard and lacked flavor I just thew it out. I ordered an hour and a half before closing and I think they made it quick so they could close early.

Not really worth ordering from here unless you ask them to cook it for longer and only if you get a special that is discounted otherwise for the price go to a better place. Too bad because this place could be a really cute fast food Indian place. Has the potential of being way better then curry express if they precooked the veg and meats so you don't end up in...

Review Credits-Ms.Natasha This Indian restaurant is a hidden gem for anyone looking to enjoy authentic and flavorful Indian cuisine. From the moment you walk in, the vibrant decor and the aroma of spices set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The menu is diverse, offering both classic Indian dishes and regional specialties, making it easy to find something for everyone, whether you are a fan of rich, creamy curries or spicy, flavorful options.

One of the standout dishes is the chicken tikka masala, with its tender chicken cooked to perfection in a creamy tomato sauce that has just the right balance of spices. The lamb rogan josh is another highlight—slow-cooked and tender, with a rich and deeply spiced gravy that’s perfect for pairing with the restaurant’s fluffy garlic naan or basmati rice. Vegetarian options like palak paneer and chana masala are equally impressive, making this a great spot for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

What really elevates the experience is the attentive and friendly service. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations or adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave feeling satisfied. Overall, this Indian restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a delicious and authentic taste of India, with excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming...