Unfortunately, we were very disappointed in the food. The service was great, but the food just very disappointing. I did speak to the manager about it as he went between tables asking customers if everything was ok. He was extremely professional and polite and listened to my comments but at the end of the day, I still lost about $70 on a meal that I literally got too bored of to eat as it was like eating vegetable soup with some bland tasting herbs/spices.
I had ate about half of it through hunger as I had skipped lunch, but it was just so tasteless and boring that I gave up. My wife was trying to make the best of her food, but I could see her food was not much better looking (watery) and that she was being polite. She then later told me that it was disappointing for her as well but as it was date night, she didn't want to complain as it was our first date night, since I came back to Florida.
The manager had offered to redo the food but in the rare occasions that this has happens at a restaurant, I simply worry too much that a disgruntled chef could do something to my food in revenge so I never take them up on the offer. I once saw a restaurant kitchen documentary on tv that confirmed my fears...
I have actually just came back from the UK and ate at several indian restaurants while there, the food was great. I have also been exposed to authentic indian food as I used to travel to India for my work (new Delhi and Bangalore mainly) so I have experienced amazing authentic indian food. When in Orlando we always make a point of eating at an amazing restaurant called 'The Taste of Punjab', it has never disappointed.
I know that asian food is often tailored to suit the local palette. I would say Indian food in the UK is not 100% authentic but nevertheless is packed full of flavor. There are so many Indian restaurants in the UK that they have to be good to survive there.
The actual food last night had plenty of fresh vegetable in it, in fact a surprising generous amount but it was literally in no way a curry! Due to it having fresh vegetables, the best I could rate it is a 3 out of 10. I briefly thought about asking for a refund but did not want the manager to think it was some type of ruse to eat for free. However, the reality is that if I was in his managerial position, I would have definitely offered the meal complimentary in the hope that we would try eating there again. As it is I would not want to lose more money going back.
Its so frustrating because Tandoor is the closest indian restaurant to us but we have not eaten there for around 10+ years after we got bad food poisoning from their lunch buffet, which used to have great tasting food (However 2 days stuck in the restroom had me swearing never to return) Despite this and feeling positive from my recent great indian meals in the UK, I thought we should try it again as its been 10 years and I heard it was under new management. We are so disappointed as we love indian food and it could have been a regular restaurant for us to...
Read moreTandoor really cares about delivering stellar service and quality food. My mom has been living here almost 10 years & I suggested Indian because I’m vegan and she doesn’t eat red meat. We go on a Friday around 7p so it was the busy dinner crowd but thankfully a couple was on their way out and we only waited 10-15 minutes. The ambiance really gives the effect that you’re in an authentic Indian restaurant. I felt like I was invited into someone’s personal space, so beautiful.
Now let’s talk about the food and drinks. First of all, I am EXTREMELY indecisive when it comes to what I want, especially when there is a whole list of vegetarian/vegan options. I can appreciate the inclusivity which is why I picked Tandoor because I can find something to eat every time I get Indian food. Our waiter Justin was super friendly and helpful with our decision making. For drinks, I had the White Sangria & my mom chose their signature margarita. Justin made our drinks and thank goodness because they were AMAZING!! I’m not a big drinker but it was the perfect amount of sweet, tart, and deliciousness to get the night going.
We then ordered the Veg sampler since my mom & I eat differently, she took the paneer and looooooved the samosas(perfect amount of crunch, flavor, & softness inside with the peas and potatoes) and I got to hog all the pakoras because she hates onions. By far the best pakoras I’ve ever had. Typically they’re too soft and fall apart but I liked how they blended the veggies in one. The Aloo Tikki was Yummmmmmmm. I think the sampler is the best way to go, they have a veg option or traditional sampler platter for meat eaters. For the main course, my mom had the butter chicken with naan and she soaked that bread in the sauce so much we thought she was going to drink it up! Hahah it was that good!! I had the Aloo Saag a little spicy and was I impressed. Super rich in flavor, the potatoes were cooked to perfection, and I really liked the spinach to potato ratio because I love spinach. The basmati rice was also perfect, absolutely no complaints there. The kitchen staff must be Michelin stars because everything that came out was the highest level of quality!!
We also had the owners come over at different times, I believe the mom and her son, to ask about our service and how everything was going. Not only was Justin, our waiter, very attentive and checking on us not too much, but just the right amount, the owners coming over really made us feel special and you can tell they are passionate and believe in this restaurant being successful. My mom said she is coming back with my dad in the future. THANK YOU FOR...
Read moreOn a recent trip from Miami to Tampa, I had the pleasure of discovering Tandoor in Bradenton, thanks to a quick Google Maps search. It's not every day you stumble upon a restaurant that leaves a lasting impression, but Tandoor is truly one of those rare finds. As someone deeply familiar with Indian cuisine, I can attest to the authenticity and exquisite taste of their dishes. Every bite felt like a journey through the rich culinary landscapes of India.
The moment I stepped into Tandoor, I was greeted with the warmth and hospitality that you'd expect in a friend's home. The staff were not only welcoming but also exceptionally knowledgeable, guiding me through the menu with discovery questions that led to personalized recommendations which were absolutely spot on.
What made the experience even more memorable was the chance to interact with the owner, Ms. Poonam. Her presence on the floor, engaging with every table, illustrated her genuine interest in guest satisfaction and openness to feedback. Sitting down with us, she shared her inspiring success story, making us feel like old friends within minutes. This personal touch added a unique layer to our dining experience.
The ambiance of Tandoor is just as commendable. With tasteful decor and immaculate cleanliness, the setting is perfect for both casual and special occasions. I've always believed that the attention to minor details, such as the presentation of a glass of water, speaks volumes about a restaurant's standards, and Tandoor exceeded all expectations.
In summary, Tandoor is not just a restaurant; it's a destination for anyone looking to explore authentic Indian cuisine in a setting that feels like home. It's now my go-to spot whenever I find myself in Bradenton. I cannot recommend it highly enough to both locals and travelers alike. If you appreciate great food, wonderful people, and a welcoming atmosphere, do yourself a favor and visit Tandoor. You won't be...
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