Masala Desi Cafe - Burlingame — Restaurant in Burlingame

It may seem low but I think this is a fair rating. Let’s start by saying this is not bad food. Definitely high-quality ingredients and made carefully. I’m taking off one star because I think they play it a little too safe. The flavors and spices are very unoffensive and I would consider a bit to mild. It is nice and perhaps a bit sweet but I don’t feel like I have a deep aroma that I’m expecting. The flavors are good but again there’s not a lot of depth, and even though I asked for spicy, I barely tasted any heat. Also, a little bit of a complaint, as I can tell they use a blender on their sauce because it was very airy and kind of light and fluffy like a smoothie instead of being dense creamy sauce. Chicken was a bit on the mushy side, but was fine. The next star is off because of value. I think it’s a ok portion and it’s Burlingame prices which is fine. My butter chicken only had about a third of a chicken breast in it. Enough for maybe five or six bites when going back for seconds, the container was filled with more than half of its sauce, and there was only one piece of chicken left. It would’ve been nice to have enough chicken for two meals to match the quantity of sauce. Also, the naan portion could’ve been a little more generous. For the price, you usually get a larger piece or even two pieces but here you just get one small piece. The rice is fine with that typical basmati burlap smell. Summary: I’m not disappointed, and I am pretty satisfied with my lunch and subsequent leftovers for dinner. However, due to the things I have mentioned in my knowledge of the area, I would probably not be back just because I have so many other options that appeal to my particular tastes. Give it a try! It might be...

Masala Desi Cafe: Where Spice Meets Soul

Nestled discreetly off the bustling downtown strip of Burlingame lies a culinary gem waiting to be discovered: Masala Desi Cafe. This cozy nook exudes warmth and charm, inviting patrons to step in and savor the rich tapestry of flavors that await within.

Despite its intimate setting, Masala Desi Cafe offers ample outdoor seating, allowing guests to bask in the sunshine while indulging in a culinary journey through India's diverse cuisines.

The menu, a testament to the chef's artistry, boasts a tantalizing array of dishes that blend the bold spices of South India with the subtle nuances of the North. From the fragrant cauliflower Manchurian to the creamy palak paneer and the robust andra chicken curry, each bite is a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate.

Accompanying these delectable delights is a selection of freshly baked roti, the perfect vessel for soaking up every last drop of sauce. And no meal at Masala Desi Cafe is complete without a steaming cup of chai, lovingly brewed to perfection and infused with aromatic spices.

But what truly sets Masala Desi Cafe apart is its impeccable service. The staff, with their genuine warmth and efficiency, ensure that every guest feels like family from the moment they step through the door. Their attentive care and swift service only enhance the dining experience, leaving patrons eager to return time and time again.

In a world where culinary experiences often blur together, Masala Desi Cafe stands out as a beacon of authenticity and flavor. With its irresistible blend of spice and soul, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking to tantalize their taste buds and nourish their...

Finally had a time to leave review for this amazing place that we dined 2 times while on our trip to California.

The place is amazing with variety of Indian food options, place is also cozy and the staff is very friendly and welcoming. Coming from Canada and finding a comfort Indian food, we came across this place and thought to give it a try and our first experience on first day of trip made us come back on the last day of trip too.

Their veggie biryani was everything, their curries were delicious too and the Mango lassi was yummmm 😋

The staff, specially Arjun and Arun were the most amicable and friendly. They provided good suggestions for the food to eat and places to visit as well. Their service was also excellent leaving our experience as memorable as possible.

Will definitely recommend this place for a good, friendly , comfortable qnd welcoming experience for anyone visiting in and around the area.

P.S: @Arjun @Arun hope you remember us as we do( an Indian couple with a 3 yr old whom the complimentary yummy mango lassis...