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Lal Mirch Indian Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Lal Mirch Indian Restaurant
8.6
Since 2007, this family-run Studio City mainstay imports spices directly from India to craft North Indian classics in an elegant yet casual setting. The tandoori chicken emerges perfectly charred from the clay oven, while the butter chicken and tikka masala showcase rich, creamy tomato-fenugreek sauces that have earned a devoted following. Server Abu's legendary hospitality adds warmth to the polished dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 9.3
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Spices imported from India with exceptional service from seasoned staff
Who should go: Families, couples, and Indian food enthusiasts seeking consistency
When to visit: Lunch specials weekdays $10 range with soup/rice/naan
What to order: Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, Garlic Naan
Insider tip: Ask for Abu as your server for personalized recommendations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant (15-20 spaces), street parking also available on Ventura Blvd
Dress code: Casual comfortable - jeans and nice top perfectly fine
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation at all times
Weekend wait: 15-25 min without reservation Friday/Saturday 7-9pm
Weekday lunch: No wait - seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 20+ dishes including paneer specialties, dal makhani, vegetable korma
Vegan options: Good options - request dishes without cream/ghee, staff accommodating
Gluten-free options: Yes - rice-based dishes, tandoori meats (skip naan), inform server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - intimate booths, attentive service creates conversation-friendly atmosphere without being stuffy. The elegant but casual vibe takes pressure off. Budget $60-80 for two with apps and entrees.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6:30pm) - walk in confidently. Friday/Saturday after 7pm - call ahead or expect 15-25 min wait. They don't use online reservations, just call directly.
Is it kid-friendly? Very welcoming to families - mild butter chicken and naan are kid hits. High chairs available. Best times: weekday dinner or weekend lunch when it's less crowded.
How spicy is the food? They adjust to your preference - always ask for spice level when ordering. 'Mild' is truly mild, 'medium' has kick, 'Indian hot' is serious heat. Start conservative, you can always add more.
Do they have lunch specials? Yes - weekday lunch combos $10-13 include entree, rice, naan, and soup or salad. Best value on the menu and same quality as dinner portions.
Best For
Better for: Consistent quality and personalized service - Abu and the team remember regulars and guide newcomers expertly. The imported spices create deeper, more authentic flavors than most LA Indian spots. Better butter chicken and tikka masala than flashier Westside competitors at lower prices.
Skip if: You want modern Indian fusion or trendy cocktails - this is traditional North Indian in a no-frills setting. Also skip if you need Southern Indian dosas/idli (they focus on North Indian tandoor and curry dishes).