0 Followers
India Garden
Master Critic Review
India Garden
8.5
India Garden serves exceptional North Indian classics in an intimate setting with charming window boxes and warm Indian decor. Since 2009, their butter chicken and tandoori dishes have consistently impressed locals with authentic spicing and generous portions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butter Chicken, Tandoori Fish, Aloo Tikki
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Consistently excellent butter chicken with house-made naan that locals swear by
Who should go: Families seeking authentic comfort Indian
When to visit: Weekday lunch buffet for best value
What to order: Butter chicken, garlic naan, aloo tikki appetizer
Insider tip: Ask for their homemade chai tea - it's complimentary with lunch
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on Rose Ave, small lot behind restaurant fills quickly after 6pm weeknights and all day weekends
Dress code: Casual - come as you are, locals wear everything from jeans to business casual
Noise level: Moderate buzz - intimate space gets lively when full but you can still have conversations
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, 45 min peak times without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait for buffet, immediate seating
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive vegetarian menu with over 15 dedicated options
Vegan options: Limited - several dishes can be made vegan, ask server for modifications
Gluten-free options: Limited - tandoori items and most curries are safe, but no dedicated prep area
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates - cozy and intimate but not overly romantic. The consistent quality means no awkward food surprises, though the small space means limited privacy
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays usually fine, but call ahead Friday-Sunday nights. Lunch buffet never requires reservations. Bar seating often available for walk-ins
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, kids love the mild butter chicken and plain naan. Staff is patient with families. Best before 7pm when it's less crowded
Best For
Better for: Most consistent spicing and portions in Pleasanton, best butter chicken sauce that's rich without being too sweet, actually delivers on 'mild' when requested
Skip if: You want modern plating or Instagram-worthy presentations, need space for groups over 6, or prefer South Indian specialties - this is traditional North Indian comfort food