Passage to India — Restaurant in Mountain View

After 33 years, Passage to India in Mountain View remains an absolute "old gem" in the South Bay, a culinary landmark cherished for its delectable Indian bakery items and, more recently, an expansive and incredibly delicious buffet priced at an astonishing $18.99. Stepping into Passage to India for their buffet is an experience in itself, starting with the vibrant chaat corner. Here, you'll find an unlimited supply of freshly prepared golgappas and papdi chaat, perfectly complemented by what might just be the best mint water you'll ever taste. The main course spread is a testament to the kitchen's mastery, offering a wide array of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. For me, the Methi Chicken was the undeniable hero product, a dish so exquisitely prepared that it alone warrants a visit. The Butter Chicken was also a standout, rich and flavorful. On the vegetarian side, the Khoya-Paneer Bhurji offered a delightful novelty, and the Malai Kofta was wonderfully creamy. The starters are equally impressive, with classics like Pav Bhaji and crispy spring rolls. It's also a surprisingly family-friendly spot, with options like burgers and mini pizzas for the younger diners. And for those who appreciate Indo-Chinese fusion, their Gobi Manchurian is done exceptionally well – a truly yummy addition to the spread. But perhaps the grand finale, and a clear indicator of the owners' renowned baking prowess (they supply across the Bay Area!), is the dessert corner. From a light and airy strawberry mousse and a variety of eggless cakes to a comforting aate ka halwa (reminiscent of the Gurdwaras) and traditional kheer and barfi, there's a sweet treat for every palate. To round off this culinary journey, a fresh masala chai is the perfect conclusion. Beyond the food, the service at Passage to India is excellent. The fresh bread served directly to your table is a delightful touch, and a big shout out to Raghu, whose attentiveness ensured we had a great selection of naans. After such a feast, I'm tired just typing about it, let alone eating it! Passage to India truly delivers an unforgettable Indian...

A Hidden Gem with a Heart: Passage to India – Mountain View

Nestled in the charming old downtown of Mountain View, Passage to India is truly one of the Bay Area's oldest culinary gems. And with their newly introduced weekend buffet, they’ve elevated the experience to an entirely new level.

This is not your average buffet—it’s one of the most expansive and thoughtfully curated spreads I’ve seen in recent times. From the moment you step in, the aroma and variety draw you in. It starts with a delightful chaat corner featuring in-house made papdi and golgappas, followed by a comforting tomato soup, rich pav bhaji (with butter-slicked, house-baked pav that’s simply irresistible), and even home-style burgers that transported me back to my school canteen days. The made-from-scratch pizza base and thin, street-style Indo-Chinese noodles were spot on. Crispy Gobi Manchurian, samosas, spring rolls, desi pasta, and cutlets rounded out the starters beautifully.

The main course was just as soulful—daal fry, the most divine malai kofta I’ve had in a long time, bhindi masala, and a khoya paneer that tasted like something straight out of mom’s kitchen. Simple, honest, and made with love.

And the desserts? All made in-house! From plum and chocolate cakes to eggless mousse, naan-khatai, kheer, halwa, and even a birthday cake—each one felt like it belonged at a family celebration.

What makes this place even more special is the warmth behind the food. I had the pleasure of meeting the owners—a sweet uncle and aunty duo. Aunty, who personally supervises the kitchen, is truly the heart of this restaurant. Her passion and love for cooking shine in every dish.

While the restaurant’s look may feel rustic, the food speaks volumes. Passage to India isn’t just about dining—it’s about nostalgia, heart, and real Indian flavors. And don’t miss their bakery section either—puffs, pastries, cakes, and more await.

Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for soulful, authentic Indian food...

Rude people; disappointing food.

Had a taste of their unsavoury customer service twice in the past couple of months. The first time was dinner time on busy Father's day. I first called to place an order for take out pickup, but the lady on the phone said they have a buffet due to the volume that night, but since the two items I wanted are on the buffet menu I could come and pick them up. I showed up and placed the order (with a different person as it would turn out). After a really long wait my stuff was brought to me by a really angry lady who finished a rant by saying "The chefs are really not happy cooking a al carte." - that's when I came to know that one of the items I wanted was actually not on the buffet menu and they ended up doing a special. How on earth was I supposed to know that if the person who took down the order didn't tell me? And why would that person (looked like someone on the management chain or senior person there) rant at a paying customer like that? To rub salt into my wounds the food was actually quite bad - it had like three times the normal salt levels - looked like some unhappy soul there had extracted their revenge, after all.

On another occasion we called their bakery, also in Mountain View, to place an order. The experience was also super unpleasant.

I can't understand how business owners can get away with having an attitude that they are doing their customers a favour by serving them. It is of course easy to see this place is also quite successful, which makes me wonder if they have different service standards for different groups based on some stereotypes... In any case this sucks and I would actively discourage anyone from patronising this place run by...