Bombay Bistro — Restaurant in The Villages

Let me preface this to say I am so glad to find some Indian food offerings in the Villages area, and while I may be critical inn some of my areas of this review, let that not detract from my gratitude that Indian food has come to the Villages! Our first visit to the BOMBAY BISTRO in the villages. There was plenty of parking in the area, it was a warm day, so we decided to eat inside: air conditioning was working great, lots of booths available, and we were seated quickly. There was one server/greeter working, and the environment was quiet. The server brought menus to the table and mentioned that they were also serving a buffet. We took a quick glance through the menu and we opted for the buffet. My wife found her favorites of Saag Paneer and Tandoori Chicken, I chose the same. We also picked up side items of Naan, Pakoras, Chana Masala, and I tried some of the Dal. Overall, the preparation quality on most items was good, but the Pakoras were falling apart a bit (probably from the holding environment in the buffet table). I thought the best item on the buffet was the Saag Paneer: the seasoning on this dish was forward and fully satisfying. But, we both felt that the usage of herbs and spices was lacking on the remaining dishes - I guess this may be a nod to the anticipated tastes of the Villages crowd, but we are both in our seventies and we LOVE strongly seasoned food from India. I also expected to see some type of salad ingredients on the buffet line (lettuce, onion, cucumber, raita) and was disappointed not to see them. The server brought out a small two-compartment plate of chutney/sauce to be eaten with the Pakoras. We recognized the Tamarind sauce and its flavor, but the green chutney, while giving the appearance of coriander and mint chutney had an unfamiliar taste. I queried the server about the sauce seasonings, but I did not recognize the space that he said may have been added (I am accustomed to fresh mint, cilantro, ginger and green chillies. ground cumin and black salt. Perhaps the black salt was way overdone). So, we will definitely return. While perusing the menu over lunch, I observed that they have a Vindaloo Goat Curry, and I am looking forward to trying that on our next visit. (Oh, one other interesting observation: This new restaurant Bombay Bistro is occupying the premises at which I previously found...

I'm giving 5 stars because this place has huge potential but I would like to share some criticisms as well as praises. We ordered the chicken lollipops (mild) for appetizers, the kids chicken nuggets and fries for my little, the chicken curry (mild) and the chicken Tikka masala (mild) an order of garlic naan and an order of lachha paratha. The lollipops were beautifully presented, smelled wonderful and looked delicious. However they were incredibly spicy for "mild" and very fatty and i think cooked with the skin still on. I wouldn't order them again. The chicken nuggets were not good at all. They tasted like concession stand food but the fries were ok. I did tell them about the nuggets when they asked. We did not eat them, I did not ask for them to be comped and a comp was not offered or given However they said they would "tell the cook for next time" My husband enjoyed the Tikka masala and I VERY much enjoyed the curry. The flavor pallet was wonderful. At first glance the portion they give you seems incredibly small for the price but I didn't even end up being able to finish mine. Without a doubt the star of the show was the freshly made lachha paratha bread. It was absolutely DIVINE. If you like naan bread you will LOVE this. Flaky layers, soft in the center and crisp on the edges, perfectly seasoned and topped with a drizzle of oil. Cons (for me) -The curry does not come with veggies in it -i feel like a side of bread should come with an entrée order and not cost $6 extra dollars -the garlic and the chicken were both cut incredibly large. Some people might like that, I do not. -they don't have fountain sodas and charge $2.99 for canned sodas. -they don't have plates or cutlery, it's all plastic...I broke my fork on the chicken lollipops lol. That may be temporary since they just opened but I thought that was worth mentioning. Overall I'm super happy to have a new restaurant to frequent and even more happy that it's Indian. I look forward to future trips to...

From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted with a warm and genuine welcome that immediately set the tone for the evening. The atmosphere was inviting, with just the right balance of elegance and comfort, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual dining.

Our evening was elevated by the outstanding service provided by Akash, our waiter. Attentive without being intrusive, Akash anticipated our needs before we even voiced them. He guided us through the menu with sincere enthusiasm, offering thoughtful recommendations that proved to be spot on. His friendly demeanor and professionalism made us feel truly valued as guests.

The heart of the experience, of course, was the food. Chef Sohail is clearly a master of his craft. Each dish was beautifully presented and full of vibrant, well-balanced flavors. From the first bite to the last, it was evident that every ingredient was carefully selected and prepared with passion. Chef Sohail even took a moment to personally check in at our table, which added a special, personal connection to the meal.

In an age where dining can sometimes feel rushed or impersonal, this restaurant reminded me what hospitality truly means. The teamwork between the kitchen and service staff created a seamless experience that was both memorable and heartwarming.

I left not only satisfied but eager to return — and I know that when I do, I’ll be in the capable hands of Akash and enjoying the culinary artistry of...