Just the words are enough to sweep you off your feet into an exotic world of romance, tinged with international intrigue and maybe just a touch of danger.
"Come with me to the Vindaloo," the handsome raja whispered. "We'll pass the day with Bhindi Masala, then we'll spend the evening with a little Baigan Bhartha. You are Aloo Matar, my darling."
Translation, in order: Stew, okra cooked with onion and tomato, roasted eggplant spread, and potatoes and beans.
At Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, words are dishes, and just as delicious.
The restaurant, on North Palm Canyon Drive, serves a bargain- hunter's lunch buffet that includes about a dozen Indian specialties, for $8.95.
It's a great way to introduce your taste buds to new flavors, if you aren't already familiar with Indian cuisine.
We started with a bed of basmati rice, then topped it with Daal Maharani, a thick soup made from split lentils, which was outstanding. We used the naan, a light warmed flatbread brought to the table in a basket by a server, to mop up a second helping.
Also offered is tandoori chicken (pieces marinated in spices and yogurt, then roasted); vegetable fritters; a fresh medley of sliced zucchini and tomatoes; a delightful mix of homemade cheese cooked in a special spicy sauce, and more dishes, plus a salad. Dress that with raita, a cooling chopped cucumber and yogurt mixture.
Traditional sauces are mainly delicately seasoned here; nothing is overly spicy, but all is tasty and surprisingly light.
For dessert, a sweet, coconut-infused rice pudding hit the spot, particularly when it was accompanied with a dollop of fruity, gingery chutney.
Delhi Palace is a lovely respite for an afternoon or evening of dining. Tables are set with linen cloths, a mural of India decorates one wall, and soft, piped-in music provides background atmosphere.
If you like what you taste, come back for tikka, kurma, saag, bhaji, and nawabi.
Translation: Taste for yourself!
