Saffron Indian Cuisine & Bar — Restaurant in Fairfield

Fat Friday Chronicles: Butter Chicken Bliss Meets Service Slip-Up By Dad the Foodie (With the Fam in Tow)

Let me start with this: If you're within a 30-mile radius and crave legit Indian food—like "you'll dream about the garlic naan" legit—this place is a must. My crew (the wife, the 17-year-old who critiques everything from movies to masala, and my 7-year-old who measures all meals against chicken nuggets) actually bypasses three other Indian joints just to get here. That’s loyalty. That’s respect. That’s how good the food is.

Let me paint the picture: The ambiance? Warm and welcoming. The interior? Clean enough to make my wife do the approving head nod. The food? 🔥 Still undefeated.

Tikka Masala that dances on your taste buds. Samosas that are crisp on the outside, heaven on the inside. And don't get me started on the lamb biryani—it’s a spice-layered masterpiece that even my picky teen admits “hits different.”

But here’s where the naan starts to fall apart. The service.

Now listen, I’m not one of those Yelp-warrior dads foaming at the mouth over a missing fork. We’re a laid-back family. We roll with it. First time the service felt off, we chalked it up to an off night. Even LeBron has off nights, right?

But the second time? That’s not a bad day. That’s a trend.

Missing food items, and they still had the nerve to charge us? Had I not flipped that receipt over like a dad inspecting a utility bill, we would’ve been down a dish and none the wiser. To their credit, they fixed it fast. No fuss. But still. It shouldn’t happen. Not here. Not when the food’s this good.

And the waiter? Man looked like we were interrupting his internal monologue every time we asked for, well, anything. Water. Napkins. A smile. It felt like we were a burden, not a table. I don’t need stand-up comedy and table-side magic—just some eye contact and basic hospitality. Is that too much?

Final verdict? The food slaps. No argument. Still worth the detour. But the service? Needs a serious reboot. Hire better. Train better. Something.

Because if the kitchen is firing on all cylinders, the front of house shouldn’t be running on fumes.

We'll be back—but we’ll be watching that receipt. Dad’s got his eye on it. 👀

— Dad the Foodie (Fat Friday Enthusiast. Receipt Checker....

Not returning. I came for the good food and the ambiance to read and eat in peace. I ordered soup to start and a full dish. When my neighbors who came in and ordered at the same time got their starters, I put my book away expecting mine.

I waited. It finally came, but later and with my other food. I asked to send it back because my food would be cold by the time I got to it and am traveling and soup to go doesn't fit into that. They took it back without issue, but raising the complaint and having to justify it made me want to get out of there. It felt like they just wanted me to eat quick and get out.

I added peas and mushrooms to my dish. As I sifted through it, there were barely any. I decided to just abandon it since the experience was gone anyway and now, so was my appetite for this dish. It was not that good. I got the check and $5 was added for the barely existent peas and mushrooms.

I didn't want to argue at all. I paid in cash and left a 25% tip and begged to just be able to settle the check so I could leave. He asked if I wanted to take it to go and reluctantly said yes. He brought me a handful of containers and foil wrap to start the job myself. Great. I was so upset and trying to rush out, my hands were shaking and fumbling and I spilt my food.

I just wanted to pay and leave! I wouldn't have even said yes to the to go offer if it wasnt packed right, they didn't even give me a bag or utensils!

I finally paid and got out the door, but then the naan started falling out and I quit. I ran back in, dropped it off at the counter, and told them I didn't want their food anymore.

I was nice the whole time and my only concern was them not feeling shafted...but it was both the food and service that made me leave.

I ended up paying $26 for absolutely nothing. Now I wish I had just sent back the dish and ate the soup, but again...getting out of there was...

I recently celebrated my college graduation with a private dinner at Saffron, and I truly cannot express how incredible the experience was. From the moment we arrived to the final goodbye, the owner, chef, and entire staff were the epitome of hospitality—extremely pleasant, kind, flexible, and accommodating every step of the way.

We were treated like honored guests, not just customers. The team went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. They graciously allowed us to bring in our own decorations, creating a beautiful and personalized celebration space that felt both festive and elegant. The atmosphere was warm, inviting, and impeccably clean, with a peaceful ambiance that made it easy to relax and enjoy the moment.

Now let’s talk about the food—absolutely phenomenal. There was plenty of delicious, flavorful dishes and a generous selection of beverages that pleased every palate at the table. Everything was beautifully presented and bursting with authentic flavor. You could truly taste the care and craftsmanship in every bite.

And a special shoutout to Deep, who was truly a gem—so thoughtful, attentive, and sincere in making sure everything ran smoothly.

Saffron made my graduation dinner a memorable, joyful, and seamless experience. I’m beyond grateful for their incredible service and hospitality. If you're looking for a place to host a special event—or just enjoy an outstanding meal—look no further. This...