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Frontier Spice
Master Critic Review
Frontier Spice
7.8
Located in downtown Pleasanton since 2015, Frontier Spice combines traditional Indian with modern interpretations in an upscale casual setting. Features impressive chandeliers and colonial-style furnishings with a full bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Malai Chaap, Chicken Dum Biryani, Butter Chicken
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Downtown location with full bar and elegant colonial-inspired ambiance
Who should go: Date nights and happy hour crowds
When to visit: Friday evening for atmosphere
What to order: Malai chaap, craft beer pairings, butter chicken
Insider tip: Their happy hour features discounted appetizers and beer specials
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Downtown street parking with 2-hour meters until 6pm, free evenings but fills up quickly - paid garage one block away on Saturdays
Dress code: Smart casual - nice jeans with a good shirt works, many dress up for date night, business casual common for happy hour
Noise level: Lively bar atmosphere - gets loud during happy hour 5-7pm and weekend nights, quieter for early dinner or late lunch
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical Friday-Saturday without reservation, bar seating sometimes available sooner
Weekday lunch: No wait usually, 10 min during downtown lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - creative vegetarian fusion options beyond standard offerings
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 dishes can be modified, best to ask server
Gluten-free options: Limited - items marked on menu, mostly tandoori dishes
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - chandelier lighting creates romance, full bar helps with nerves, and downtown location offers natural before/after options. Just avoid peak happy hour if you want conversation
Can I get a table without a reservation? Risky on Friday-Saturday nights. Bar area is first-come with full menu. Weeknights usually fine, but OpenTable makes booking easy - do it
Is it kid-friendly? Not really - bar-centric atmosphere and evening focus make it better for adults. Early dinner (5-6pm) workable for well-behaved older kids, but there are better family options nearby
Best For
Better for: Best Indian happy hour in downtown with craft beer selection, most date-worthy ambiance with colonial elegance, prime Main Street location for dinner-and-drinks evenings
Skip if: You want purely traditional preparations, need quiet family dining, or are looking for budget options - this leans fusion/social over authentic/affordable. Parking hassle not worth it for solo takeout