Introduction
Have you ever found yourself yearning for an explosion of flavors, a symphony of spices that transports you to a faraway land? Perhaps the vibrant colors and aromatic scents of India come to mind. If so, you’re in luck! Huntington, West Virginia, might not be the first place you’d expect to find an authentic and thriving Indian food scene, but this charming city boasts a delightful selection of restaurants ready to tantalize your taste buds. The growing interest in globally diverse cuisine has made its mark, and Huntington’s Indian restaurants are leading the charge. So, leave your passport at home and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. This article is your guide to exploring the diverse and delicious world of Indian food in Huntington, highlighting the best restaurants and dishes that promise a memorable and flavorful experience.
The Irresistible Allure of Indian Cuisine
What is it about Indian food that captivates so many? It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The foundation of Indian cuisine lies in its masterful use of spices. Cardamom, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili peppers are just a few of the stars in the spice cabinet. These spices are not just added for flavor; they are carefully balanced to create complex and harmonious flavor profiles that stimulate the senses. The sauces, whether rich and creamy or tangy and spicy, are cooked for long hours, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. From the tandoor oven’s smoky char to the slow simmer of a fragrant curry, Indian cooking techniques are time-honored and perfected over generations. The incredible variety of textures also adds to the appeal. The crispness of a freshly fried samosa contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy naan bread. The tender, succulent pieces of marinated meat complement the creamy smoothness of a rich sauce.
Beyond the sheer pleasure of the flavors, many Indian ingredients boast health benefits. Turmeric, with its potent anti-inflammatory properties, is a staple in many dishes. Ginger and garlic, known for their immune-boosting properties, are also frequently used. Moreover, Indian cuisine is incredibly accommodating for vegetarian and vegan diners. Many dishes are naturally plant-based, and restaurants are often happy to adapt recipes to suit dietary requirements. Lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables are used creatively and abundantly, making Indian food a delicious and healthy choice for everyone.
Huntington’s Indian Food Scene: A Taste of India in West Virginia
Huntington may be a city of Appalachian charm, but its culinary landscape is surprisingly diverse. A selection of Indian restaurants dot the city, each offering its own unique take on this beloved cuisine. While some restaurants lean towards the popular dishes familiar to Western palates, others showcase regional specialties and more authentic preparations.
One will find diverse options in Huntington’s Indian restaurants, including flavors from North India, which is known for its creamy curries, tandoori dishes, and rich bread. Some restaurants feature a taste of South India, which known for its use of rice, lentils, and spices like mustard seeds and curry leaves, creating tangy and flavorful dishes. The best part about Huntington’s Indian restaurant landscape is that you can travel to India without leaving Huntington, West Virginia!
Restaurant Spotlight: Flavors That Will Transport You
Let’s take a look at the best places that will have you saying “Namaste” to a full and happy belly!
Spice Merchant: A Culinary Oasis
Spice Merchant, located on Fourth Avenue, is a vibrant and popular spot known for its warm atmosphere and authentic flavors. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with colorful tapestries and traditional Indian artwork, creating a welcoming and immersive dining experience. Here, the aroma of exotic spices hangs heavy in the air. The menu is extensive, featuring a wide array of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
For a truly memorable meal, start with the vegetable samosas, golden-brown and filled with a perfectly spiced potato and pea mixture. For the main course, the butter chicken is an absolute must-try. The tender pieces of marinated chicken are simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce, infused with ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. The rich sauce is perfect for soaking up with a piece of freshly baked naan bread. The restaurant also offers a selection of biryani dishes, fragrant rice dishes cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices. Their lamb biryani is a customer favorite, featuring tender pieces of lamb infused with saffron and other exotic spices. Spice Merchant offers a range of price points, making it an accessible option for both casual diners and special occasions.
“We strive to create an authentic and welcoming experience for our customers,” says the owner of Spice Merchant. “We use only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to ensure that every dish is bursting with flavor.”
Tandoori Grill: A Taste of Tradition
Tandoori Grill, located on Fifth Avenue, specializes in dishes cooked in a traditional tandoor oven. The tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven, imparts a unique smoky flavor to the food, making it a truly distinctive culinary experience. The restaurant’s interior is simple and elegant, with a focus on creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
The Tandoori Grill is known for its tandoori chicken, marinated overnight in yogurt and spices, then roasted to perfection in the tandoor oven. The result is a succulent and flavorful dish that is perfect on its own or served with rice and naan. They also offer a selection of kabobs, marinated pieces of meat or vegetables grilled on skewers. The seekh kabob, made with ground lamb and spices, is a popular choice. For vegetarian diners, the saag paneer is a must-try. This classic dish features creamy spinach cooked with homemade cheese and a blend of aromatic spices. Tandoori Grill is moderately priced and offers both dine-in and takeout options.
“Our tandoor oven is the heart of our kitchen,” explains the chef at Tandoori Grill. “It allows us to create dishes with a unique smoky flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.”
Bombay Bites: Casual and Flavorful
Bombay Bites, located near Marshall University, offers a more casual and contemporary take on Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s atmosphere is lively and vibrant, making it a popular spot for students and young professionals. The menu features a mix of classic Indian dishes and innovative creations.
The restaurant is known for its street food-inspired dishes, such as the vada pav, a deep-fried potato patty served in a bun with chutneys and spices. They also offer a selection of wraps, filled with marinated meats, vegetables, and flavorful sauces. The chicken tikka masala wrap is a customer favorite, featuring tender pieces of chicken tikka masala wrapped in a warm naan bread with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy yogurt sauce. Bombay Bites is affordably priced and offers a quick and convenient option for lunch or dinner.
“We wanted to create a place where people could enjoy delicious Indian food in a relaxed and casual setting,” says the owner of Bombay Bites. “Our menu features a mix of traditional dishes and innovative creations, so there’s something for everyone.”
Saffron Valley: Authentic and Refined
Saffron Valley, situated in a quieter part of Huntington, offers a more refined and upscale Indian dining experience. The restaurant’s interior is elegant and sophisticated, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. The menu features a curated selection of authentic Indian dishes, prepared with the finest ingredients and presented with impeccable attention to detail.
Saffron Valley is renowned for its biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Their lamb biryani is a customer favorite, featuring tender pieces of lamb infused with saffron and other exotic spices. They also offer a selection of vegetarian dishes, such as the dal makhani, a creamy lentil dish simmered overnight in a rich tomato-based sauce. For dessert, the gulab jamun, deep-fried milk balls soaked in a rose-flavored syrup, is a must-try. Saffron Valley is on the higher end of the price scale, but the quality of the food and the exceptional service make it well worth the splurge.
“We are committed to providing our customers with an authentic and unforgettable Indian dining experience,” says the head chef at Saffron Valley. “We use only the finest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning.”
Must-Try Dishes in Huntington’s Indian Restaurants
No exploration of Indian cuisine would be complete without a mention of some iconic dishes:
Classic Indian Delights
- Butter Chicken: Tender pieces of marinated chicken simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce infused with ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. The sauce is rich and buttery, perfect for soaking up with naan bread.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: A universally beloved dish featuring marinated and grilled chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This dish is known for its vibrant color and complex flavors.
- Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach cooked with homemade cheese (paneer) and a blend of aromatic spices. This vegetarian dish is both healthy and flavorful.
- Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. There are many different variations of biryani, each with its own unique flavor profile.
Regional Specialties
Ask about regional specialties from different restaurants. Depending on the restaurant’s focus, you might find dishes like:
- Dosa (South Indian): A thin, crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and chutney.
- Vindaloo (Goan): A spicy curry dish typically made with pork or chicken, marinated in vinegar, garlic, and chili peppers.
Vegetarian Delights
- Dal Makhani: A creamy lentil dish simmered overnight in a rich tomato-based sauce with butter and cream. This dish is incredibly comforting and flavorful.
- Chana Masala: Spiced chickpeas cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and ginger. This vegetarian dish is both healthy and satisfying.
Breads and Sides
- Naan: A soft, leavened bread baked in a tandoor oven. Different variations include garlic naan, butter naan, and cheese naan.
- Samosas: Savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. They are typically deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish flavored with cucumbers, onions, and spices. It’s the perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes.
Tips for an Unforgettable Indian Dining Experience
Navigating an Indian menu can be a bit daunting at first, but with a few tips, you can confidently order a meal that you’ll love.
- Spice Level: Indian restaurants typically offer a range of spice levels, from mild to hot. If you’re not used to spicy food, start with a mild or medium option. You can always ask for extra chili on the side if you want to add more heat.
- Explore the Menu: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes. Ask your server for recommendations or browse online reviews to get ideas.
- Make Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, it’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance.
- Beverage Pairing: Indian food pairs well with a variety of beverages. Indian beer, such as Kingfisher or Taj Mahal, is a popular choice. Lassi, a yogurt-based drink, is also a refreshing option.
Conclusion: Your Indian Food Adventure Awaits
Huntington’s Indian food scene is a testament to the city’s growing culinary diversity. From the authentic flavors of Spice Merchant to the casual atmosphere of Bombay Bites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Now you have all the inside information to embark on your own Indian culinary journey, Huntington-style. Don’t hesitate, explore, and discover your own favorite Indian restaurants and dishes. Expand your palate and dive into the vibrant flavors and aromatic spices that will leave you craving more. Let Huntington be your launching pad to the culinary magic of India. Begin your Indian food adventure in Huntington today!
