Indian cuisine is comfort food. Comforting, because the menu almost always offers “your dish,” reliable Aloo Gobhi (cauliflower and potatoes with spices), a crispy samosa starter, or Chicken Tikka Masala, that sets your palate tingling. On a recent trip to Anita’s Bistro, I ordered mine. The Lamb Vindaloo ($12.95) featured tender meat in a thick, pronounced sauce. Delicious. The naan ($1.95) was fluffy and crisp in all the right places. And complimentary papadums featured the rustic spice kick of whole cumin seeds—a pleasant surprise. Between the variety of appetizers; naans; and lamb, chicken, seafood, or clay-oven specialties, you’ll probably find your dish, too. Anita’s Tandoori Chicken ($10.95) would have benefited from a leaner bird. But with service so impeccable, it’s hard to squawk. EMILY PAGE
Anita’s Indian Bistro
Comfort food, with spices, in Maple Leaf.