Savoy's South Indian Kitchen — Restaurant in South Industrial District

TLDR: Beth's Dismissive Attitude Reflects Customer Neglect... Period.

Well, we had an important family day, and the kids were tired and the little one was hungry and cranky. We decided to go to Savoys around 5 pm. We, being from South India, appreciate this place. I requested a specific table (which was empty among many others that were also empty) to better accommodate our family and make the kids happy. However, we were given another table, and I accepted it, though I couldn't help but wonder about their choice given that the restaurant was 80% empty at that time.

Then the trouble began. I noticed food particles on the table we were given, so I called for assistance. That's when Beth (whom I've also heard her colleagues refer to as Neethu, if I recall correctly, and my wife admires her vibrant headscarf) came over to clean it. She bluntly and rudely stated she had to clean it with alcohol and suggested we move to another table. This time, I asked why we couldn't have the table I initially requested. She seemed disappointed but agreed.

Minutes later, I overheard her loudly stating to a colleague, "I am not serving that table." My kids heard this and became worried and confused. My wife and I were left wondering what we could have done to upset her. And all this drama happened even before we got our food.

Look, with all due respect, you're in the customer-facing hospitality industry. If you can't even smile or be cheerful, or at least fake it (which she never does with customers – I've been here close to 10 times now and have been served by her in the past, always with the same grim face), and if you have issues with people, I would find a job that suits your attitude or one that you think you deserve. Please don't take it out on customers, even if your day or life is awful. Trust me, there are many people who will gladly take your job and do it much better. Also, I haven't seen you greet people as they enter – only the other girls seem to do that, from what little I've noticed. Maybe you have a Ph.D. in rudeness; your demeanor is detrimental to hospitality.

Her audacious and ill-mannered behavior could only mean she is taking her customers for granted, perhaps based on some bias, if she owns the business (giving her the benefit of the doubt, of course). Or if she's an employee, she's hurting the business, with or without her employer's consent.

As for Savoys, please exercise logic. For instance, when you seat four people at a table and place four meal plates to begin with, if one of them orders a dosa (which is served on a meal plate right from the kitchen), please remove the empty plate you initially placed when serving the dosa. We're not there to eat plates, and that plate only takes up space. Also, please keep checking on people – it took me calling them five times to clear plates and order more, making me feel like I was eating there for free.

Lastly, please try to have the restaurant not smell like fish all the time. There are other places that serve similar dishes without that smell. This time, I saw another waitress spraying air freshener – perhaps even she couldn't stand it.

Every time my family goes there, our bill is at least $100, and if that's not good business for you, then I'll keep wondering what is!

Fortunately, I was served by Tanisha, and she is superb and knows her job well. She was the...

Food was an amazing spectacle of savory South Indian quisine. My good friend took me here and it was amazing. We had the Masala Dosa, Beef Ullarthu, King Fish Biriyani and finished with the filtered coffee. (Also took some chicken-fried rice ordered mild for dad and he was able to enjoy the dish despite his very low tolerance for all things spicey.)

What an amazing delicious experience. The place has a quint cafe feel to it, and there were servers everywhere - and service was excellent. The way the staff answered questions about the dishes was very nice and helpful - but more to the point, their descriptions and recommendations were very helpful. (The difference between good service and exceptional service is when servers know about what they are serving.)

The Masala Dosa was fun to eat, and the sauces are what make this dish stand out. The Beef Ullarthu was a wonderful food experience - the texture and flavor is somewhat reminiscent of beef brisket but with a deep savory flavor that I had never experienced before. Absolutely delicious. "Heat level" on the beef was what I would call "properly hot" - might be a bit much for some, but I found it perfect.

The King Fish in the biriyani was cooked wonderfully - not at all dry - and again, the flavors were simply explosive. Rice was nicely cooked and the dish was not at all greasy.

Even the coffee at the end was very nice. I typically don't use cream and sugar but did for this occasion and it's like a low-calorie liquid desert.

All in all, this is a busy quaint little place with amazing, fresh authentic South-Indian cuisine and very fast and courteous staff.

Will be back on the regular to explore the entire menu.

Five stars....

Exploring the Delights of Savoy's South Indian Kitchen

Savoy's South Indian Kitchen in Edmonton is a treasure trove of culinary delights that beckon the taste buds with the authentic flavors of South India. For those planning a visit, there are a few standout dishes that are a must-try.

The Dosa, a staple of South Indian cuisine, comes highly recommended. These thin, crispy crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter are served with a variety of fillings and chutneys, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The Masala Dosa, filled with a spicy potato mixture, is a particular favorite among patrons.

Another dish that has received accolades is the Biriyani. This fragrant rice dish is cooked with a medley of spices, herbs, and a choice of meat or vegetables. It's a hearty and satisfying option that truly represents the depth of South Indian cooking.

For those with a penchant for something a bit more indulgent, the Kerala Paratha is a must. This flaky, layered flatbread pairs wonderfully with curries and makes for a comforting meal.

And let's not forget the beverages – the Mango Lassi and Masala Chai are perfect accompaniments to any meal at Savoy's, providing a sweet or spiced counterpoint to the savory dishes.

While the restaurant's ambiance may need a touch of modernization, the food at Savoy's South Indian Kitchen remains the star of the show, promising an authentic dining experience that's rich in flavor and tradition. Whether you're a seasoned lover of South Indian cuisine or a curious first-timer, these dishes are sure to leave a lasting impression. Savoy's continues to be a culinary landmark in Edmonton for those seeking the true taste of...