Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant — Restaurant in Hales Corners

My favorite ever Indian restaurant closed down shortly after Covid (😢), and since, I have been exploring, and trying to find somewhere that even held a candle to what that place used to be, and tonight, I found it, and beyond! Best chicken tikka masala, naan, etc I have EVER had. And my boyfriend agreed.

However, this story did start with a hiccup. I showed up to get my carry out, and at first glance, the interior is a little lacking compared to some of the places I’d tried, however, the fanciest of places were never any good. The place I fell in love with was a little hole in the wall as well. So don’t let that fool you too. Back to the hiccup, when I arrived, I gave my name and a bag was handed to me. I got 2 minutes from my driveway (20 minutes away) and I got a call that I had the wrong order. Initially a little frustrated having to turn around to drive an extra 40 minutes after working a 12 hour day, I took a second to realize these people have probably had a long day too and I tried to keep an open mind. I returned, exchanged bags, and the gentlemen I spoke with was SO sweet, and apologetic, and tossed in an appetizer on the house (unnecessary, but appreciated)

Finally, I got back home, tasted the food, and OH. MY. GOODNESS!!! By far, this is the best Indian food I’ve ever had. I didn’t think my old place could’ve ever been topped. But you guys did it! Hats off! I look forward to trying everything on the menu!

Amazing food....

My husband and I love Taj Mahal so much (was a favorite for carryout when we lived nearby), we drive up from the Lake Geneva area! It is absolutely worth the drive, because there is no substitute for greatness.

The naan is pillowy, yet chewy and slightly crisp, and has a lovely smoky, wood-fired flavor. Regardless of the flavor you choose (I'm partial to the garlic naan), you can't go wrong! The palak paneer is full of flavor and complex spices, and is our go-to. We tried the baingan bharta for the first time this evening, and were blown away at the depth of flavor roasted mashed eggplant can have in curry form. I recommend ordering both at medium heat for a balanced spice level, but hot would be fantastic too. Even the rice you get with your food is amazing! If you're a fan of masala chai, you'll definitely want to order a cup while you're here.

While we didn't order it today, they also have a killer fish fry: it's a HUGE portion of catfish fried up in seasoned pakora batter. If you're not into catfish, it might not be your thing. Oh, did I mention that the chutneys are also amazing? I'm not sure what the green one is, but that's our favorite.

The staff is super friendly and attentive, and the dining room is clean, comfortable, and well-lit.

All in all: worth the drive, but we'd LOVE if you'd set up shop in...

The food is homemade and wonderful, I and my best friend Mike are regulars and visit the buffet at least twice per month. I often actually (for real) will dream of the authentic food that just can not be duplicated. My son actually packed a quart container of the fresh carrot sweet dish (likened to a sweet potato mash but seems to be made perhaps with carrot, and drizzled with a wonderful sweet cream type topping) and paid to ship it priority in a cold pack all the way to NYC! Living in NYC, where there are many Indian Restaurants, he paid to have the food flown in from Hales Corners, WI from the Taj Mahal! The family that owns the restaurant is hard working and tight knit, and the food is the real deal. Try the lunch buffet which I believe is currently from 11 - 2:30, and just try it - take a little small amount of each dish until you discover your favorite. We also go for dinner hour from time to time when the lights are low and the atmosphere more intimate, and sit and talk and it is like being in another world for that moment in time, all troubles are left at the door, and it is just a wonderful way to relax and take...