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Basant Modern Indian
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Basant Modern Indian
8.3
A North Center dining room that reworks familiar Indian favorites with a modern, chef-driven touch and a strong cocktail-forward night-out rhythm. Order best by anchoring the table with one chaat-style starter, one tandoor/bread moment, and two mains that contrast creamy and smoky.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mushroom kulcha, Sweet potato chaat, Eggplant bharta
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Modern Indian cooking that hits classic flavors with tighter technique and polish.
Who should go: Date nights and groups who like sharing mains
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for the smoothest pacing
What to order: Sweet potato chaat, mushroom kulcha, eggplant bharta
Insider tip: Balance the order: one chaat + one bread + two contrasting mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on nearby side streets; availability drops after 6pm, so plan a few extra minutes or consider a short rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—nice jeans are fine, but most guests dress up a bit for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate—lively energy with music and chatter, but you can still hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; at weekday dinner, minimal wait if you arrive early
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several strong vegetarian mains and starters are core to the menu, not afterthoughts.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—some dishes can be prepared vegan if you ask.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many curries and grilled dishes are naturally gluten-free; confirm bread substitutions with your server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it hits the sweet spot between impressive and approachable, with shareable plates and cocktails that naturally spark conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends and prime dinner hours are much smoother with a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning—better for teens who enjoy bolder flavors than for younger kids expecting mild or simplified dishes.
Best For
Better for: Modern Indian presentations, cocktail-forward dining, and a polished night-out feel compared to more traditional neighborhood Indian spots.
Skip if: You want classic, no-frills Indian comfort food or a quiet, budget-friendly family dinner.
Basant Modern Indian
8.2
A modern Indian dining room where vegetarian diners do best by ordering across textures—one crisp starter, one hearty vegetable-forward plate, and a bright chutney-driven side. The room reads more date-night and celebration than quick counter-service, with a menu that supports veg eating beyond token options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Jackfruit Cutlets, Paneer (Indo-Chinese chili-style), Gulab Jamun Cheesecake
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Modern Indian cooking with legit vegetarian starters and paneer-forward plates.
Who should go: Vegetarian diners who still want a full night out
When to visit: Early dinner or happy hour for easiest pacing
What to order: Jackfruit cutlets, paneer chili-style, dessert
Insider tip: Anchor the meal with one crisp veg starter, then build around paneer or jackfruit.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Lincoln Ave and nearby side streets; no valet. Street spots get tighter after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but most diners look date-night ready.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy to hold a conversation, but expect a buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong vegetarian presence with multiple starters, mains, and sides that feel intentional.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—several dishes can be ordered vegan or adjusted; confirm with server.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free-friendly options available; staff can guide you through safe choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—polished but not stiff, with shareable dishes and a warm room that supports conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or early evenings; weekends are smoother with a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults—no kids menu and a more evening-focused, celebratory vibe.
Best For
Better for: Vegetarian diners who want a full, modern Indian dinner experience rather than just meatless substitutions.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional Indian cooking or a quick, budget-friendly vegetarian meal.