Awesome pakora and creamy curries. Tucked in the corner of a strip mall at the corner of Dunlap and 19th Avenue, Nawaz is a hole-in-the-wall that serves up delicious appetizers and curry entrees. Sharing a table with a friendly Ai Culinary Art and Management student, I tried a variety of foods.
The spinach pakora for $3.99 came in a generous size. Crispy spinach and onions with complex flavors surprised me. I loved the mango chutney and mint chutney dipping sauce.
The chicken tikka masala is amazing, made with dark meat and layered with spices, finished with rounded creamy notes. I at it with crispy garlic naan that was not cooked in a tandoor or oven, but forgivable.
I tried the bread pudding. Flavors were spot on wth sweet and spicy balance. I wasn't a fan of the texture. I want to try the gulab jamun or fried dessert dough balls dripping with honey next time.
Service was warm and friendly. Ask for Johnny. Food is Halal, I believe. Price is good. Flavors are spot on. They serve South Indian curries as well. The heat level is just right for the American palette. I wonder what it would've been like if I requested a spicier rendition. Do not be put off by the plastic ware and styrofoam plates. This Indian cuisine is LEGIT!