Godavari Indian Restaurant — Restaurant in Charlotte

I'm pleased to submit this review of Godavari. I don't know how long they've been here, or even truly where "here" is. I'm staying at a hotel in the area and walked out to see what was available. I followed my nose to Godavari (I have a nose for Indian food). As I sit here, my nose is telling me I'm in a happy spot! And the ratio of "real Indian people" (always a sign of authentic cuisine) started at about 22:3, and got higher in favor of real Indians as the hour progressed. In the background, Bollywood music videos play constantly. The wait staff are all Indian. English is not their first language, but I had no difficulty communicating with anyone. They wear casual clothing (not uniforms) which makes them initially more difficult to pick out from among the other diners.

Browsing through the extensive menu takes a while. There is a lot to choose from, including a large number of pure vegetarian items. Sadly, I'm not here at lunchtime so there will be no buffet, and it's just me, so I can't have a wide sampling of delightful southern Indian dishes. I wish I could invite myself to a couple of tables where whole families are eating (I'd pay for my share!). I had to narrow it down to one selection. I ordered a spiced lamb curry (gongura mamsam) and some naan. The prices of everything on the menu seem both reasonable and inline with expectations, if not perhaps somewhat on the lower side of the bell curve.

Before the entree came out, I was brought a plate of papadam (deep fried crispy chickpea chips). Little things matter — the tamarind sauce is some of the best I've ever had, sweet, sour — and thick! It's often runny and not so rich at other Indian restaurants.

It took a while for my food to come out. Obviously, it was not ladled out of a pot, but made for me. The portion size is massive! I need not have been concerned about getting enough to eat for my money. This is definitely great value. And now to taste...

Wow! I've never had anything quite like this. According to an article I read a while back, science has shown why Indian food is so delicious. Rather than a blending of flavors, Indian food maintains a delightful contrast of flavors with a multitude of spices. Different nuances in this dish shine through over a spicy background that warms noticeably, but never overpowers. I'm going to have to take half of this home tomorrow. My boys won't forgive me if I don't.

The verdict: Godavari is fantastic! My dinner was amazing. As I walked out, I glanced around at other tables and saw a multitude of things I would love to try. These will have to wait until I come here again. I don't know when that will be, but I...

Before you read my experience, you should know I've worked in many restaurants Indian, Japanese, American, and in the U.K. I know how basic, simple service should be, and I know what to expect from different levels of restaurants.

For the looks of the restaurant and the price of dinner, the service tonight was kind of lacking.

No straw with mango lassi, (had to get someone's attention after 5 mins in order to get a straw) didn't take our menus after we ordered, never got the Diet Coke I ordered, had to ask for the chutneys when the pakoda came out, Garlic Naan was warm at best (although tasty), but was cold within minutes.

Overall, the food was good, we took advice from some friends that we saw leaving as we were coming and they told us to under order the spice level as mild is medium and medium is hot, and hot is crazy hot we chose mild and were happy with the food taste. I will also say portions were good. The service could've been better. I will say that this place has real potential, and I hope they focus on training the staff.

Hilariously, the fastest part of the service was when it was...

The food was just great.Placed a catering order yesterday. The food arrived on time and was served hot. Had ordered:

1. Gongura Mutton Curry - tasted amazing (5 stars)
2. Old City Veg Biryani - Tasted soooooooooo good.Even the Americans loved it!!! Masala were perfect with perfect heat.(5 stars)
3. Malai Kofta - Veg ppl went crazy for the taste. It's a treat to taste buds.
4. Garlic Naan were fresh too - got over in no time.(5 stars)
5. Kurnool Chicken curry-Tasted very good I felt oil was bit too much but individual preference. (So would give 3stars).

All in all great experience. Any business runs good if you have personal connect with the customers. Raja ( owner of the restaurant) is one such guy. He treated me and my colleagues when we went to place an order, as if we knew each other from a very long time. Had a good friendly conversation. ( Have to mention,he offered samplers of Junnu paalu/Ginnu Haalu sweet) Out of the world I say!!!

If you are around this area do visit this place they have great food and amazing ambience!!!

Good luck to the team!!! This place is here...