Photo Credit: Stuart DeSpain
Tina and I came here, with friends, back in 2002. Across the restaurant sat Solomon Rushdie and Padma Lakshmi (back when they were still an item). Marissa Tomei was just entering as we left. And the food -- oh, my, the food was wonderful.
Flash forward eight years. We’re back in NY and Tamarind is one of my must-visit destinations. Considering my earlier poor fortune with old favorites, I was a little apprehensive. Would Tamarind be as good as I remembered?
The short answer is yes. The food was wonderful. Tamarind serves a classic Indian menu, prepared with passion and skill. We stared with a rich, aromatic crab soup. Both creamy and spicy, the soup was an excellent first course for our feast. We also shared an order of Raji’s Rajasthani Sooley, a lamb dish that was spicy and delicious.
For main, Tina enjoyed the lobster masala while I tucked in to a lamb vindaloo (pictured above). A spicy goat biryani (basmati rice with goat meat) made for a tasty side. the spices were a little strong for Tina until the manager kindly suggested she try some yoghurt to break the heat, That dramatically improved her experience.
My vindaloo was terrific. Warmly spiced with rich tomato overtones, I would gladly dine on that meal every night of the week. The lamb, itself, was tender and rich -- exactly how it should be.
As good as Tamarind is, it is best enjoyed with many friends. The menu is deep and very interesting. Picking one or two items simply doesn’t do justice to what they have to offer. Also, if you don’t agree with spicy foods, don’t forget to order a side of yoghurt!
★★★★★
41 E 22nd St
New York, NYÂ 10010