Chak De California — Restaurant in Pasadena

Indian food always seems to hit the spot whenever I want delicious, flavor-packed cuisine. I've tried a few places around Old Town Pasadena, but I haven't tried the relatively newer Chak-De. It's spacious and modern, and right off Colorado, so I came here for lunch with my friend.

We got the classic Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Vindaloo, Garlic Naan, and Basmati rice, as well as Mango Laasi.

The Mango Laasi was very delicious and it's a must have here!

Of the two entrees, the Chicken Tikka Masala is definitely the better of the two, featuring that classic Masala flavor. It is what I always gravitate to when I go to a new Indian spot. The only blemish here is that there's just not enough proteins and the Masala is a bit watery.

The Lamb Vindaloo is a bit more of a mixed bag because while it is good, it's a bit strong in its vinegar taste. I think a more layered, complete flavor would help. It's also missing some of the heat that I come to expect from Vindaloo.

Thankfully the garlic Naan delivers in its strong flavor to balance everything.

Overall, the food is good enough for us to come back and...

Not too sure how this place got this high of reviews. Online it said it was open at noon but they didn’t open till 1pm. Ok no problem.. we went somewhere else and come back at 1. Once seated we order the food…They told us the sizzling plate will take about 35 mins which we said sure. Little did we know.. the whole meal took over 40 mins to come out. I’m not sure how they could’ve been this slow for the stuff we ordered. It wasn’t like the place was full. Almost through the meal the server brought out the sauces. It just seemed like the flow of what came out wasn’t carefully thought out.

The taste of the food was just ok. I wouldn’t rave about this or think it was worth coming back for. It didn’t mention goat cheese was going to be on the pizza which did catch us by surprise.

There was a fork on the floor that I found at my table when I sat down and since I was the first to sit at that table it was a bit odd.. like was the floor not cleaned?

Only reason I came was to use my Amex Resy credit.. but nothing...

Was excited to see a new Indian restaurant to come up in the neighborhood and gave it a try but unfortunately, will never go there again.

The review is only for food.

Onion pakora (1.5/5)- good from outside but not fully cooked inside. I could taste raw besan (chickpea flour). This happens when you fry it in high flame. Also, way too salty that made me thirsty till late night.

Gobi manchurian (4/5)

Veg biryani (-5/5)- If they think what they serve in the name of veg biryani is veg biryani, they need to get out of business before they are forced to. They should call it ghee rice with some peas and paneer pieces in it. 5 tiny pieces of rotten carrots and 10 tiny pieces of beans. Price $20. We left it all right there.

Over the years, I have seen very good Indian restaurants unable to survive this neighborhood, so it will be miracle for them unless they really get serious with what they are serving. Good ambience and location can bring you customers once but unless your food is good you can't get...