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Kamal Palace
Master Critic Review
Kamal Palace
8.2
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Brunch Bliss Spots
Business Lunch Power Players
Group Dining Gatherings
Operating for over 30 years in Marina Pacifica, this family-run establishment specializes in tandoori preparations cooked in traditional clay ovens alongside North Indian curries. The lunch buffet draws regulars with its reliable spread of butter chicken, saag, and fresh naan, while dinner service offers expanded options including Nepalese momos and specialties like shrimp malai with coconut cream sauce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Three decades of consistent quality with waterfront shopping center location
Who should go: Families, buffet lovers, and reliable Indian food seekers
When to visit: Weekday lunch buffet or weekend dinner reservations
What to order: Lunch buffet for variety, butter chicken, chicken tikka masala
Insider tip: Saturday lunch buffet offers the best value and selection
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot parking in Marina Pacifica mall - ample spaces, though can fill during peak weekend shopping hours
Dress code: Casual comfortable - families in everyday wear, business casual fine for lunch meetings
Noise level: Moderate during buffet service, quieter at dinner - conversation flows easily
Weekend wait: 15-30 min without reservation Friday/Saturday evenings, call ahead recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, buffet seating typically immediate
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Extensive options - dedicated vegetarian section with 15+ dishes, strong paneer and dal selections
Vegan options: Good options - most vegetable curries can be prepared vegan upon request, confirm ghee substitution
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes and some curries work, but cross-contamination risk with shared tandoor and fryers
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for established couples or casual dates - the buffet format and family atmosphere create a relaxed vibe but lack romance. Dinner service with ordering off menu elevates it slightly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early weeknight dinners, yes - walk right in. Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm, expect 20-30 minute waits or call 30 minutes ahead for courtesy seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, mild curry options, and buffet format lets picky eaters find something. Kids under 10 eat buffet at reduced price. Gets busy with families on weekends.
Good for large groups? Excellent choice - can accommodate parties of 8-12 with advance notice, buffet simplifies ordering for groups, and Marina Pacifica location has nearby activities before/after.
How spicy is the food? Moderate by default with spice level adjustable on request - buffet items lean mild to medium to accommodate broad tastes, dinner orders can be customized hotter for spice seekers.
Best For
Better for: Consistent quality over three decades, unbeatable lunch buffet value in Long Beach, reliable tandoori cooking, convenient Marina Pacifica location with easy parking - choose this for no-drama Indian food that delivers every time
Skip if: You want cutting-edge modern Indian cuisine, romantic intimate ambiance, or authentic South Indian specialties - this is North Indian comfort food in a family-friendly setting, not a culinary adventure