Namaste Indian Cuisine - Sandy Blvd — Restaurant in Portland

It's all buffet, all the time here at Namaste. At least it was during our Friday night visit. We'd never been here before, so the experience was a little unfamiliar, and it seems that our hostess assumed we knew what we were doing, so after being seated (immediately, mind you), we sat at our table for a few minutes, watching other patrons, before we realized we could just get up and get busy with filling our plates.

Once we figured that out, though, things went smooth. My wife and I both made multiple trips, gingerly trying out all manner of options, both familiar and unfamiliar to us. From staples such as chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, various biryani and paneers, goat, lamb, vindaloo, a decent salad bar, and even some surprisingly delicious (to me) mango and coconut ice cream, to finish!

Don't expect much interaction with the staff here, though: this is almost purely a DIY dining operation, from start to finish. Even paying the bill is practically on the trust system, as you do so at the front counter, and there was no one there when we walked up to do so...it took them a few moments, during which time any dishonest schmuck could simply walk out the door. None of these things are complaint worthy.

There were only a couple less-than-ideal things about the experience: the food could have been a little warmer, in our opinion. Similarly, those relatively unfamiliar with Indian cuisine (such as us) could probably use some first-time guidance as to what mixes with what, and how to eat certain things without making a mess, or looking like complete tools. Only the former of these things is on the restaurant.

For a flat $20, this all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of spice and rice and meat and bone, it's hard to find a better deal anywhere in the city. I'm sure I have much more to learn about Indian cuisine, but if you ask me, for my money, there are naan better in Portland...

Had occasion to stop by for an early dinner last night. This was my first visit to Namaste, but definitely won't be my last.

Namaste is an informal, casual, no frills Indian buffet restaurant. When I arrived, a friendly young woman greeted me as I entered the dining area, showed me to my table, and placed a pitcher of ice water and a glass on the table. She asked if I wanted something else to drink (I didn't), and left me to my own devices.

My understanding is that this is an all you can eat Indian buffet restaurant. I don't think there's any alternative to the buffet option. Cost is $20. That being said, the buffet selection is impressive. I've eaten at a number of Indian restaurants with a buffet option (usually just at lunch), but this place has the largest selection I've ever seen. It's essentially divided into two adjacent areas, one with a salad, condiments and chutney section, the other with a large selection of hot meat and vegetarian options. They also had 4 large containers of various basmati rice renditions. Even though I was here at around 4:45 (buffet hours are from 11 am to 9 pm), the buffet area was clean with plenty of food (the staff are very good about replenishing the trays). Everything tasted very fresh and flavorful to me, and the cucumber yogurt sauce (raita?) was excellent. I ate two plates of food and had to stop after that (tried to eat a third plate, but just couldn't do it). There's also plenty of bread and a soft ice cream machine, but I couldn't eat anything else.

For me this place was perfect. I liked the no frills atmosphere and being left to my own devices. The food was good, there was plenty of variety, and everything tasted fresh and well seasoned. ...

If you are a foodie then this more of a "dive" and well worth it if you like indian food! See why below!

Food: authentic dishes, lots of choices, small buffet toppers with general ingredients though some just had the name of the item below. Food was low to medium spicy range....did find one labeled "hot" (spicy). As it is a buffet, it was quite busy with the event area, the food was not up to temp but hot enough to be enjoyed safely. The rices were hot as they were ept I'm steam pots. Cold foods were eh..again safe enough to enjoy though.

Service: excellent! Fast, helpful, and with a smile! +++

Atmosphere: here is where it was more of a "dive" got there by GPS and it didn't look like restaurant from area I entered. There was a bit of a cheap "open" sign hanging off side of building & the entry way reminded me of a back door party entry. The inside is well in need of a makeover. HOWEVER... Please read on. The bar area (alcohol) is behind closed doors in a separate area making the restaurant section fully family friendly. Yes you can order beer etc from your table and have it brought to your table. Just pointing out that the actual drinking bar is in a totally separate area. Then there is an upstairs for banquets etc. There is LOTS of seating. The restaurant area is quite big! Just that even with lots of windows...still a bit dark inside due to decor.

Over all it was a good experience and I will be going back definitely. Indian buffets are not as frequently seen and this was over all, one of the best I have are at!!!! Will try during a slower time next trip :-) please check them out. I hope you like them as...