Namaste India Bistro — Restaurant in Monterey

We popped in here on whim, and as always, Indian cuisine did not let us down. The service was prompt and friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious.

I was struggling to decide between a vegetable entree and a salmon dish with mint, but the waiter told me it would be "the best salmon you'll ever have." Considering the amount of salmon I've tasted, I was pleasantly surprised when his prediction was proven resoundingly correct. Tender, flavorful, complex, and just the right amount of food. My husband's chicken tikka masala was sweeter and had more cinnamon than we're used to, but was still delicious. If you have less adventurous children in tow, I recommend an order of cheese-stuffed naan for them. My finicky son loved it.

A few notes to those who frequent Indian restaurants regularly:

-It feels a little more posh and polished than most, but was also brighter and more intimate. The menu had fewer options than I am accustomed to, but included both meat and vegetarian entrees. Based on our experience, they have whittled it down to only the very best (as the words "India Bistro" in their name implies). -Prices per entree were about what I was used to, but the food came in individual portions rather than family-style, including a single serving of rice per entree. If you are gluten-free, you can safely eat nearly anything on the menu--including the complimentary, lentil-based flat bread and trio of sauces they provide when you arrive as always, the rice pudding was cold and delicious, and I refused to share more than a bite or two with either of my children.

I would unquestionably eat here again if I was...

My Dearest Foodies and Fellow Desi Folks, Lemme tell you, I just had the most mind-blowing, soul-satisfying lamb biryani from Namaste India Bistro, and I had to spill the chai about it. I got it for takeout, and let me tell you, that aroma alone almost made me swerve off the road. Seriously, if you're ever having a rough day, or even a great day that could be made better with food, this biryani is your answer. From the first spoonful, it was pure magic. The rice was cooked to perfection – fluffy, separate grains, each one singing with flavor. And the lamb? Oh my god, the lamb! It was so tender, it practically melted in my mouth like butter on a hot paratha. No chewy bits, no struggle, just pure, unadulterated meaty goodness. You know how sometimes you get biryani and it's all dry and sad? Not this one. This was juicy, flavorful, and had that perfect balance of spices that makes you close your eyes and do a little happy dance. It wasn't just spicy for the sake of being spicy; it was a symphony of flavors that reminded me of my Nani's cooking – that perfect blend of warmth, comfort, and a little kick that wakes up your taste buds. I'm telling you, this isn't your run-of-the-mill biryani. This is the kind of biryani that makes you want to call your mom and tell her about it, even if she lives halfway across the world. So, if you're in the mood for some authentic, finger-licking good Indian food, especially if you're craving some biryani that hits all the right notes, do yourself a favor and get it from Namaste India Bistro. Trust me on this one, your taste buds will thank you. I'm already planning my next...

The space looked clean organized and well kept. It was inviting with plenty of natural light, The service was attentive without being intrusive. Everyone was very nice. The food was delicious, we tried a couple new dishes that were yummy and a couple of our favorites. Everything came out quickly, hot, and so much flavor. Then we were offered to-go containers for all the food we couldn't eat. Over all we had a great time. It was easy to talk and catch-up with our friends while still ordering, eating, and paying with out impacting or dinner. Great job to everyone that was working. No on site parking. But there is free on street parking and there are paid lots nearby. Give this review a like 👍 if you are still reading. Follow for more reviews of campgrounds, food, and other adventures across the country and the world. Adventure krewe pro tip. If you are not sure what to get at an Indian restaurant ask for recommendations. If you like or enjoy spices then start with a medium heat appetizer. This will help you adjust for your dinner. Get the tika masala or butter chicken with rice with low heat and taste all the great and...