Tabla Indian Restaurant - San Mateo — Restaurant in San Mateo

This rating is based solely off of one dish that they prepare: Vijayawada Chicken Biryani, aka the best Biryani in the Bay area and arguably my entire Biryani experience.

If you're from the area, you know how many options there are for good Indian food, so you'll understand when I say that I only go to each place for a couple exemplary dishes (not the whole menu). Well for Tabla, that's the Biryani mentioned above!

Don't come for the dining experience, the ambiance, the service or the music. Come for the only thing that matters here, the Biryani!

The aroma is enticing, smelling strongly of a refined selection of rich Indian spices. Unlike many styles, this one has the rice on top and the chicken baked underneath (of which there is a surprisingly good amount). Large portions, soaked in a fantastic curry accompaniment, you just can't go wrong with this one. The spice level is great - not too much so as to make those with low tolerances cry but enough to make the more acclimated stop intermittently and appreciate the flavor (while giving their tongue a quick rest). Plus the raita is perfect to help relieve the burn (and alleviate digestion troubles by protectively lining the stomach).

As mentioned, I can't speak towards the dining experience, or really the rest of the menu (except for some unsurprisingly mediocre tandoori chicken).

My sole recommendation is that you order the Vijayawada Chicken Biryani! And if you're like me, get an extra to go (because it only...

We visited Tabla Restaurant in San Mateo today. Dario welcomed us with warmth almost as if he knew us for a long time. We were not very hungry so just ordered Dahi Vada (Fried lentil savory donut shaped dipped in Yogurt blend) and Veg Fried Rice.

First about the quantity- We felt the quantity is huge as compared to the price. In any other place they would serve 2 plates with what Tabla charges for one plate. Similarly Veg Fried rice is on the higher side.

Quality: The serving, presentation and the taste is above par. It would be extremely difficult to find anyone who would Not like the food here.

The Dahi Vada came with chutneys in a small separate container - so you can mix the quantity as per your liking.

The Veg fried rice was seasoned perfectly and vegetables cooked just enough to maintain some crunch. The absolute best part was use of minimum oil to achieve the taste - This just won us over and also proved a point to other restaurants that you don't need to drowse food in oil/butter to make it delicious.

We also spoke with other patron who were regular and praised everything they eaten so far.

If you have not, Please visit Tabla Restaurant for eating the superb food or at least for meeting the ever smiling Dario whose moto seems to be customer delight.

They do celebrate Ganesh festival and will have small Ganesh idol during next...

Tabla Indian Restaurant in San Mateo has become our absolute favorite go-to for both dine-in and catering — and for good reason! Their food is consistently incredible, and the service is second to none.

The biryani is a true standout — perfectly spiced, aromatic, and rich with flavor. Whether you go for the chicken, lamb, or veggie option, it's always cooked to perfection. Their mini samosas are the perfect little bites of crispy, savory heaven — ideal as starters or snacks, and always a hit at our gatherings. And don’t get me started on their paneer curries — creamy, flavorful, and comforting with just the right balance of spices. You can tell every dish is crafted with care.

Special shout-out to Samson, Jithesh, and Dario, who treat every guest with such warmth and professionalism. Their hospitality is top-notch — friendly, respectful, and always going the extra mile to make sure you have a great experience.

We've relied on Tabla multiple times for catering orders, and they never disappoint. Orders are always on time, the quality holds up beautifully at scale, and the food tastes just as amazing for a group of 50 as it does for two. Truly a gem in the Bay Area.

If you're looking for authentic Indian cuisine with unbeatable service, Tabla is the place. Highly,...