Cilantro Indian Cuisine — Restaurant in Winter Garden

It was my birthday last week and I wanted Indian food. Both my husband and I are foodies and we’re always up for trying new places. At the heart of downtown Winter Garden, you’ll find a cozy, quaint Indian restaurant named Cilantro. My husband and I went for the first time and this place didn’t disappoint.

From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for something special. They have some outdoor seatings as well. Would be perfect for a nice sunny breezy day. But we decided to eat inside and we were met with warmth, kindness, and genuine hospitality. The atmosphere and decor felt cozy and welcoming.

So let’s talk about the food? Absolutely outstanding!!! Every dish was bursting with flavor, rich in spices yet balanced with care. We ordered Onion Bhaji and Gobi Manchurian for appetizers. Wow! It was super tasty and fried to perfection! The dipping sauces just elevated the flavor to another level. My husband said you wouldn’t even think the gobi manchurian (battered cauliflower) was vegetarian. It was that good! For our entrees, we ordered two types of biryani, I had the chicken and my husband had the goat. The meat was super tender and the flavors were spot on. We also ordered Madras (fish) curry. It was rich, flavorful, and had just the right amount of heat. It was comforting and bold all at once. We paired the dishes with mango lassi and it was smooth, refreshing, and the perfect sweet balance to the spices. Every single item was a standout. You could taste the authenticity in every bite. Nothing felt rushed or commercialized. The portions were generous, perfect for sharing, and truly hearty, comforting in the best way. We wanted to keep eating, but we were so full. We took the rest to go. My husband and I kept saying in every bite, this is so good! Chef kiss! 😘

Besides the scrumptious food, the service was second to none. Our server Alok, went above and beyond, making us feel genuinely cared for. He was attentive without being overbearing, friendly without feeling forced. It was clear, every person who works in this place took pride in what they do, and it made all the difference.

So if you’re ever in the area and in the mood for some amazing Indian food, this place is a definite must try. They serve lunch buffet as well, which we’ll definitely try next time. Cilantro isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience filled with warmth, soul, and flavor. We left with our stomachs full and our hearts fuller. This place will stay with us for a long time. I think we may have found a new favorite Indian restaurant. Thank you for the enjoyable experience!...

I had the pleasure of dining at Cilantro Indian Cuisine, and I must say, the experience left me utterly impressed. From the moment we stepped foot into the restaurant, we were greeted with warm smiles and a genuine sense of hospitality that set the tone for the entire evening.

First and foremost, let's talk about the food. It was an absolute delight for the taste buds. Every dish we tried was a burst of authentic Indian flavors that transported us to the vibrant streets of India. The menu offered a wide range of options, and we had the opportunity to sample several traditional dishes. Each bite was a symphony of spices, skillfully blended to create a harmonious and memorable culinary experience. The dishes were not only delicious but also beautifully presented, reflecting the attention to detail and the passion of the chefs.

However, what truly set Cilantro Indian Cuisine apart was their exceptional service. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable throughout the entire evening. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to assist us with any questions or special requests we had. It was evident that they took pride in their work and genuinely cared about ensuring a memorable dining experience for each guest. Their warm and friendly demeanor created a welcoming ambiance that made us feel like cherished guests rather than mere customers.

Moreover, the staff's expertise extended beyond their warm hospitality. They were well-versed in the menu and were more than happy to offer suggestions and explain the nuances of each dish. Their passion for the cuisine was infectious, and it added an extra layer of appreciation to our dining experience.

Overall, Cilantro Indian Cuisine is a hidden gem that deserves all the praise it receives. From the delectable flavors that transport your palate to the heart of India to the genuine warmth and attentiveness of the staff, it is an experience that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. Whether you're a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or new to the cuisine, Cilantro Indian Cuisine is a must-visit destination for an exceptional...

"I ordered over an hour ago. Still no food." I wrote that when extremely hangry. So I wanted to come back and be as fair as possible. The atmosphere is fine and the food is really good. I love the samosas although they are inconsistent with the heat level. I also regularly get the Shrimp Biryani and Paneer Tikka Masala, both of which are excellent. This Friday night was different but we always end up waiting a long time for our food. I witnessed one person walk out after waiting too long, a family where the kids were done eating long before the parents got their food and numerous other parties waiting for take out far too long. When I ordered online, it gave me a pick up time of 30 minutes. Great! I gave it 40 then went over. The person at the front glance over to a side table and said, "it's not ready yet". No problem, I'll wait, it's really not a big deal to give it a few extra minutes, it is Friday night after all. Although, there were no special events or anything but whatever. We wait about 15 minutes then they ask my name again. They go looking for the order and can't find it. They go into the computer and there it is but nobody printed the ticket to let the kitchen know. So the clock starts now on the cooking even though I ordered almost an hour ago. Time goes by and we are asked to stop standing up front and grab a seat on an uncomfortable looking bench instead. I opt for an open table. We are told, "15 minutes", which I assume would be making our order on the fly but what do I know. It was not 15 minutes. It was not 20 minutes. My wife went to check eventually and they were loading our bag. They tried to hand me a free lassi which I guess is ok but they don't know if I have any allergies or what I like and it just seemed like such a soft response to such an egregious wait time. My wife and I both politely refused and left. Again, the food is good and I will likely try again but it's going to be a while and not when they are busy, and not when I am...