Curry Mantra — Restaurant in Fairfax

So? How much does a ZAGAT rating go for these days? I was going to send them an email and keep my concerns for the horribly high salt content of their food on the q-t but after getting hung up on twice at 3 pm,and once at 4, not busy times, to get an email address, I decided to post it here. Dear Curry Mantra I did not want to leave these comments in a review to be read long after the issue might have been corrected. I imagine, like many of us you are just trying to make a living and I would not want to make it more difficult if a brief conversation could resolve the issue. Also, I would have contacted you sooner but, in an unrelated matter have been very sick. I've just moved to the area and was hoping to find my new "go to" restaurant. I ordered on the 2nd. At 5:44 pm, per the receipt. Goat Biryani, Tandoori Grill, soup and Naan. I'm very sorry to say this, as I really appreciate anyone who feeds people for a living, but the food was inedible. The salt was through the roof - it was horrible. (It's still in my fridge if you want to test it)- specifically, biryani was the worst(doubly sad as it is my all time fav) and, since I ended up at a Dr's office in that unrelated matter, I also have documented proof on the overwhelming salt content. I have never had blood pressure issues, yet both the nurse and the Dr.were alarmed at my blood pressure reading to the point of wanting to intervene. They backed down when I told them this had never happened to me before and shared my experience with your food, the night before. I love Indian food I love spices and I know your goal is to make the best Indian food available. Please, please, please tell me this was an anomaly or maybe an accidental double salting (though it was more like 10 times too salty). I will not be ordering there again, unless I hear from you. I hope you understand how harmful this is to people. (Adding insult to injury your naan, both regular and garlic, were under cooked.) I wish you the best in the New Year, both professionally and...

My roommates and I were having a rough, cold, rainy day so we opted for a takeout Curry Mantra dinner. The online ordering was efficient and simple, and it was prepared and ready for pickup on schedule.

The gentleman at the front took my first name and confirmed with my first and last name on the receipt to avoid any mixed up orders (I appreciate this little clarification greatly as I have received wrong orders at other restaurants many times due to this error). He also politely answered a question I had concerning an invalid coupon (error on my behalf).

Everything was neatly packaged (and labeled accordingly!!) and it was piping hot, perfect for a chilly day. I cannot speak to the authenticity as this was my first time trying Indian cuisine but as a culinary student myself I can recognize when time, effort, and care is put into a dish… and the samosas, chicken curry, chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, as well as their assortment of tandoori breads all displayed those qualities.

As college students we aim for good food at good prices, and we feel Curry Mantra gave us that experience. The portions are generous, especially considering the food itself is very hearty (we all had leftovers). I think it’s also important to note that small, local, and expanding businesses have been significantly impacted by world events within the past few years so try to be understanding if you feel differently.

I don’t think I have ever written a review for a restaurant before, and certainly never this long winded. But between the amazing customer service and the incredible heartwarming food my roommates and I received, Curry Mantra without a doubt earned this review.

If you made it this far in the review, give it a shot and see for yourself. I mean if it can make 4 college students actually motivated to get schoolwork done on a Friday night just imagine what it can...

Soft lighting and a gentle backdrop of classical Indian music create an atmosphere that's both elegant and incredibly welcoming. It's ideal for a romantic dinner, a lively family gathering, or even a solo meal when you crave genuine flavors.

Service was impeccable. Our server was seamless from start to finish. The staffs genuine passion for the cuisine shone through.

Now, for the food – where Mantra truly shines. Every dish we ordered was a masterpiece of flavor and texture.

Everything which was crisp, perfectly spiced, and bursting with fresh ingredients. Chicken was tender, swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that was both comforting and complex…robust flavors and delicate preparation. The Naan was fresh from the tandoor, fluffy, and the perfect vehicle to soak up every last drop of the delicious gravies. I am throwing this out there…if there is a better Naan in NoVA please tell me because I don’t see how their naan can be beat.

What truly sets Curry Mantra apart is the authenticity of its flavors. You can taste the quality of the ingredients and the mastery of traditional cooking techniques. It's clear that the chefs here are dedicated to delivering a true taste of India, catering to both those who love classic, comforting dishes and those looking to explore more regional specialties.

If you're seeking an authentic, high-quality Indian dining experience with exceptional food and wonderful service, and very affordable pricing…look no further. It's a true gem and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I'm already looking forward to my...