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Bollywood Bites
Master Critic Review
Bollywood Bites
8.4
Bollywood Bites is a full-service Indian restaurant in the heart of Westwood Village where celebrity chef Sanjay Patel sends out crowd-pleasing North Indian standards, Indo-Chinese plates, and buffet-style spreads. It’s the neighborhood’s go-to sit-down option for chicken tikka masala, naan straight from the tandoor, and shrimp masala backed by strong delivery and catering business.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan, Shrimp Masala
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Celebrity-chef-driven North Indian classics, buffets, and halal-friendly options.
Who should go: Groups wanting hearty North Indian with cocktails in Westwood.
When to visit: Evenings and weekends for buffet spreads and livelier energy.
What to order: Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan, Shrimp Masala.
Insider tip: Use lunch specials or buffet days to sample more dishes affordably.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Broxton and surrounding Village streets; UCLA-area garages offer paid hourly parking and are usually the easiest option during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests come in relaxed Village attire, though slightly elevated outfits fit well for weekend dinners.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during dinner rush but still manageable for normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during UCLA peak class change times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — strong selection including paneer dishes, vegetable curries, dal, and biryanis.
Vegan options: Moderate — several vegetable curries can be prepared without dairy; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Good options — most tandoori proteins, rice dishes, and many curries are naturally gluten-free; naan is not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual or fun first dates; the energy is lively and the menu is share-friendly, though not ideal if you want a quieter, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes; walk-ins are common, but expect waits on weekend evenings or large groups. Calling ahead helps secure space.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes; the dining room is spacious, staff is accommodating, and milder curry options work well for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Consistently flavorful North Indian classics, large portions, and a full bar — a stronger choice than nearby fast-casual options when you want a sit-down experience.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-traditional regional Indian cuisine, a quiet white-tablecloth meal, or a purely vegan-focused menu.