Indian food is growing in popularity and variety. This exotic, aromatic cuisine is some of the most flavourful and diverse in the world. From the uninitiated to the experienced Indian food connoisseur, everyone is getting in on the action. But, with so many Indian restaurants to choose from in Ottawa, how do you know where to go to get the best Indian food?
Price
On the hunt for the best Indian food in Ottawa, take into account the menu prices. Look for a balance between too expensive and too frugal. The reality is that in Canada, some of the more exotic spices used in authentic Indian dishes are pricy. There is also a considerable amount of effort that go into some of the specialty dishes. So, you don’t want the bottom end of the scale where dishes are priced so low that the quality of ingredients is compromised. On the other hand, you don’t need to break the bank to go out for a high-quality Indian meal.
The Spice is Right
Typically, Indian restaurants will make their own sauces and gravies from unique recipes and blends of spices. A good Indian restaurant will cultivate a delicate blend of spices, rather than drown dishes in dozens of flavours. Menus and staff can help you select between different levels of heat and sweetness.
Quality and Authenticity
We all know what quality means, but what are we saying when we mention “authenticity”? Authenticity here means looking for traditional dishes and spices, evocative of a rich culture of celebrated cuisine. However, there’s a lot to be said for a restaurant that knows how to add its own twist on a favourite meal.
To find a great Indian restaurant in Ottawa, do some research and find a restaurant backed up by a great reputation for quality food and excellent service. Look for positive ratings and reviews online, check out local food blogs and go to the restaurant’s website. If they all have good things to say, chances are you’ve found a restaurant worth checking out.
Experience
It’s hard to know what it will be like to spend an evening at a restaurant until you do. The quality of your experience at a restaurant will be determined by many factors from decor to the wait staff, to the speed and satisfaction of your meal.
So how can you make your best guess as to the experience that awaits you at any Indian restaurant? Take into account all of the above criteria. Does the proprietor have a lot of experience making authentic Indian food? Do they have a history of providing great service? Maybe they have been recognized with awards and accolades in the Ottawa community. How do they treat you when you call for a reservation or to ask questions about the food? If you have positive answers to these questions you can be confident that your experience will be exceptional.