Madras Masala Express — Restaurant in Ann Arbor

The best Indian food in Ann Arbor has branched out yet again – and the fruit does not fall far from the tree. From their original location downtown, to the rebirth on Packard, to this offshoot here on Broadway—the quality of the food has remained at the same stellar quality no matter where it is made.

Tender naan. Rich, creamy butter chicken. Savory dal. Or tangy, fiery vindaloo. It doesn't matter what your taste is. Everything is worth ordering and the sheer variety and care in the menu makes this establishment a pleasure to sample again and again. I try a new dish every time I come, and over many years of frequenting Madras Masala I have never been let down.

I also would like to mention that this is a community establishment, and one that has employees dedicated to building an atmosphere of welcoming warmth. I was greeted when I walked in by several employees, and had prompt, professional take-out service with fresh, hot, generously portioned food. Then imagine my pleased surprise when I opened my meal – seeing a handwritten note letting me know their appreciation, as well as a complimentary cake dessert to finish off this wonderful experience. Small gestures. But personal ones that make all the difference in a highly competitive scene.

Madras Masala strikes me as the sort of restaurant that seeks to become a staple of the community, through the highest quality of food, service, and atmosphere. It is the kind of place that will endure, and thrive, and give back to the patrons and neighborhood it serves. I could not ask for a better experience. I encourage any seekers of good food to give it a try, and I give it my highest...

Fun helpful fact for the busy bodies: my order took less than 15 minutes to procure from time of order, but that may be different in a busier time of day. (My visit 7:45pm, Saturday night)

This was my first time here, I am so excited to live near this wonderful, takeout Indian restaurant! I loved the old place that was here, but I’m more than enthusiastic about the reopening of yet another fabulous place in the Lowertown neighborhood to grab lunch or dinner. I was welcomed with a warm greeting, my server (at the counter) asked me what I generally like as I was struggling with what to order… I am no expert but I know I love Navratan korma and lamb curries..

Gopalsamy recommended the Lamb Varutha curry and I have to say I’m so glad I went with it! I’d say it’s like the barbacoa of lamb curry- not soupy but like shredded lamb with a thick sauce, carmelized onions and tomatoes.. absolutely delicious. The palak paneer was sating and rich, more on the creamy side with a light sweetness. I recommend getting nan bread as well with your meal. They don’t skimp on the meat nor the cheese ;). ...

We were excited to try this restaurant, however, it's really subpar Indian Food. Also, Not fast. Bad tasting South Indian sambar, and both coconut chutneys weren't tasty. Not flavored like Madras-style. The Rava Dosa was super thin and crispy (excellent), but very salty. The potato filling was okay (my Chennai husband liked it). The Gobi Manchurian was perfectly flavored (the only item we liked). Soups were bad. All soups and sambar were so hot to the touch and they remained boiling hot for over 20 minutes that we wonder if they were reheated in a microwave excessively long? Mango lassi gave us both a strange unpleasant after taste. Not fresh, not good Indian food. We won't return even though Madras Masala Express is conveniently located. Sadly...