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Marina Indian Cuisine
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Marina Indian Cuisine
7.6
Casual Nepalese–Indian spot with a surprising number of seafood options—from tandoori shrimp to salmon curry—at approachable prices. A practical Marina dinner choice when you want bold spices with fish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tandoori Shrimp, Salmon Curry, King Fish Fry
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Seafood-heavy Indian options rare for the neighborhood.
Who should go: Spice lovers on a budget
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for fastest service
What to order: Tandoori shrimp; salmon curry; king fish fry
Insider tip: Ask for ‘medium-plus’ spice to balance seafood richness.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking—spots open up near Lombard after 6pm; no valet or private lot.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and everyday wear are standard.
Noise level: Moderate; background music and takeout traffic but conversation-friendly.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours; quicker for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating except during large group orders.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many paneer, lentil, and vegetable curries available.
Vegan options: Yes—several coconut-based curries and vegetable dishes can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Limited—tandoori and curry dishes are fine, but naan and samosas contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups or low-key dinners; the lighting is bright and service brisk, so it’s more comfort than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations are rarely needed; walk-ins are typically seated quickly except on Saturday nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are patient with families, and mild curry or naan dishes work well for children ages 6 and up.
Best For
Better for: Seafood execution and spice balance beat most neighborhood curry spots; prices are notably lower than upscale Indian restaurants.
Skip if: You’re seeking a sleek, modern dining room or craft cocktail experience—this is more about substance than style.
Marina Indian Cuisine
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Casual counter-service Indian-Nepalese hybrid with quick tickets and late hours. Reliable curries and tandoori are joined by momos, making it a handy takeout staple near the motels on Lombard.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken momo, Butter chicken, Tandoori mixed grill
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.1
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Indian staples plus Nepalese momos with late-night convenience.
Who should go: Budget-minded takeout seekers
When to visit: Late lunch 2–4pm to skip lines
What to order: Chicken momo, butter chicken, mixed tandoori
Insider tip: Call ahead for larger momo orders during peak dinner rush.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Lombard and nearby residential blocks; spots open up more easily after 8pm.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are; most guests wear jeans or everyday attire.
Noise level: Low to moderate—small dining area with occasional takeout bustle but easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, mostly for takeout pickup.
Weekday lunch: No wait; quick counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong selection of vegetarian curries, dal, and paneer dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—several curries and vegetable dishes can be made vegan if requested.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most curries and tandoori items are naturally gluten-free, but naan and samosas are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—this is a counter-service, casual setup better suited for low-key or shared casual meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted or needed; tables usually available except for brief weekend dinner rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common here; portions are generous and spice levels can be adjusted for kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Indian-Nepalese fare with reliable flavor and late-night convenience.
Skip if: You’re seeking a polished dining experience or craft cocktails—try Tiya instead for upscale modern Indian.