Apna Indian Kitchen — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Will definitely NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE based on our 1st experience here. Had high expectations based on 4+ star reviews, and decided to try out this place with my family. A few minutes after we were seated in a table, a waitress came and gave us the menu. Then no one showed up for several minutes, and after a while the waitress came and took our order. As this was our first visit we did not want to go overboard, and order chicken vindaloo (served with basmati rice), chicken kabab, and gobi manchurian (starter) for 2 adults. We told the waitress we will order more if we want later, as she insisted on ordering some food (naans or additional dishes). The starter/gobi manchurian arrived after several minutes, and it was sub-par (usually it has a sweet taste, but it tasted only sour). Next the Kebab, the curry (chicken vindaloo) with basmati rice (yellow, very dry, had no smell or usual basmati rice taste) were served. No taste in the chicken kebab (sub-par). The curry was super spicy which was expected (but no other taste), and we quickly ran out of water. We requested the waiter to serve us water (refill), but he did not show up for 15-20 minutes. After we managed to finish the food with watery eyes and mouth (due to spicy food), the waiter came back with water (but of no help/use at this point). Overall, it was a pretty bad service, food and experience at this restaurant. Also, all the employees at this place looked kind of depressed and rude (not sure why) or not interested in taking care of customers. Will definitely NOT VIST this...

Before I start I have to mention that this place was recommended by my Indian friend. So when I finally got the opportunity to try, I had to. Had the Saag Paneer, definitely in the top 5 of my favorites for all Indian restaurants I've been to. There was an extra slight sweet middle note on the palate. I also had the butter chicken. This is a phenomenal dish. I recommend this for anyone who enjoys this particular flavor. The rose drink had good flavor up front, but over time lost the taste due to ice cubes melting. Regardless, sipping on this during summer was refreshing and light. The mango lassi was a typical, yet really awesome addition. The sausage was quite a delicacy. It was made from lamb, and when paired with their coleslaw, it made the fushion better than when they are eaten alone. The naan is a perfect side dish for dipping in the sauce of the butter chicken, and the basmati could use some revamping. The flavor wasn't as strong as I would have liked it to be. I also enjoyed our waiter, he was friendly. All in all, give this place a shot if you have money to spare. Regretting the decision...

Delicious food that has a good spice kick if you want! Cute dining vibe and as much rice as you need for your meal make it a recent favorite. Without a doubt the best quality Indian food in the Santa Barbara/Goleta area.

Quarantine Edit: Since the pandemic began, I have ordered Apna for dinner many times. The quality is still unrivaled by any other Indian food around. Recently, there was a small issue with our pickup order but it was handled quickly and we were given some drinks for our troubles. Great food and what seems to be great management. Will always recommend to anyone that asks.

Additional Summer 2021 Edit: Apna continues to impress and surprise. I must've been blind for going on a year now as I never tried the kulfi until one of my more recent visits. It's astonishingly flavorful. If a thick spiced pistachio ice cream type dessert sounds good to you, definitely give it a try!

[What I Order: Nirvana Paneer, Curry Fries, and...