India Bistro Reviews

I wasn't how to rate this place. I ate here one Friday at the beginning of a trip and it was fantastic. Service was good, food was great. I would have given it 4 or 5 stars based on that visit. It was very busy and Ballard can be at the weekends and hard to fault. It was so good that I went back on the following Tuesday in the early evening at the end of my trip and wanted to order the same thing - a vegetarian Tandoori dish. The second visit was a disaster and such a bad experience that I feel I cannot recommend the risk of going there despite the first good experience. One of the 2 wait staff was the same one who served me previously but the person who waited on me this time was a female who seemed like she wanted to spit in my eye. Very offhand cursory and obviously did not want to be working. Small issue (at first) - No papadams - they were out they said (guess it never occurred to them to go and get some - in fact bet they could even buy them in local the Safeway down the road these days). They tried to tell me not every Indian restaurant has Papadams. As an Indian food fan who has eaten that type of food on every continent (except Antarctica) never seen an Indian restaurant like that but this was a conversation symptomatic of the evening. When the food came (same dish that I ordered 5 days previously) it was disgusting. Tasted nothing like Indian food - sort of bad chinese.....When I spoke to a (different) waiter about it he said oh the chef must have put in too much Ketchup....Ketchup in Indian food????? Yes on reflection it was like a sort of very bad chinese sweet and sour concoction. Disgusting. Cook (can't call them a chef...) should be fired as should any management who were meant to be on duty that evening. There was no manager type in evidence when I arrived - maybe that's why everyone was so lackadaisical. Someone who might have been the person in charge did arrive mid way through the meal - but was preoccupied with his phone and probably social life. Obviously not taking command of things. He should be fired too. As I say I would have given it 4 or 5 stars based on the first visit but based on my second it would be MINUS 5 STARS - so the average is one.

I love their Eggplant Bharta and they accomodate my liking it mild, less spicy. My husband enjoys their luncheon buffet. Thinks their salads are good. Watching the amount of food he had was testimony to his enjoyment of their selection and quality of dishes. Nice atmosphere, pleasant waitstaff always. When I am in Ballard it is always a place to consider going for a good meal especially when in the mood for Indian cuisine.

Fabulous food. A true representation of the Indian cuisine. The lamb was superb. Naan is a must. Love the plain one to accompany meals with rich sauce.

India bistro has a small, cozy interior with friendly staff and a great view of Market Street. The food is very authentic and portions are large. They have a lunch buffet with several vegetarian options that changes day to day. I love the Punjabi curry with garlic naan- it’s the best vegetarian curry I’ve had and it’s hard to find. Highly recommend this spot.

I think this is one of my new favorites in Seattle! I like the nice casual atmosphere. I like that they ask you how spicy you want your food when you order. Service was very good. I had the Kashmiri Chicken which was yummy! Their naan bread is good. Their prices are reasonable. They have a LOT of choices on their menu, which means I'll be back! Highly recommend this place!

We were here on a Friday night and sat and sat for 45 minutes watching people pick up take out orders, a delivery service guy came and went twice, people kept leaving the front door open, I kept getting up to close it, still we sat. We finally cornered then owner who poo poohed our complaint and didn't seem to believe us when we said we'd been waiting. The food finally arrived and wasn't very hot, the lamb was gristly and tough. Won't be coming back soon, too bad, it used to be good.

Thought I would try out this restaurant for the first time for lunch and I was surprised how good it was. Had the Tikka Masala, Basmati Rice and a side of their simple Naan and the portions were big and the taste was great. Just the right amount of spice in the Masala and the Naan was perfectly done. As always, when eating Indian food I always eat too much but it is worth it. Will definitely be back here again soon. Service was friendly and fast and the prices are reasonable as well. They also offer a lunch buffet between 11:00 - 2:00.

The lunch buffet was only so-so. I thought a couple dishes, including the potato/cauliflower one, were good, but about half were lacking. For example, some of them were all sauce, very little vegetable. I have been to an Indian buffet in another part of town that was MUCH better.

Very helpful wait staff, made recommendations to the unfamiliar. The food and service both excellent, highly recommended. Spicyness made to order. Give it a try!

Great ambiance in the heart of Ballard. Curries and the chutneys were all good. The fish masala was tangy with plenty of fish. Chicken tikka masala was a little too heavy on tomato sauce but tangy and spicy. The bindi masala was the best dish, dry, with good spice. We added a saag which was very creamy and also nicely spiced. The papadums were fresh and crispy. The mint chutney was firm and tasty. I prefer it spicier, but it was very good. The raita was chunky and very tasty. The garlic naan was very good and larger than usual. The curries were milder than we expected. Order slightly spicier than you usually do.

Fresh tasting. Great for kids.

My wife and I stopped here for lunch with some visiting friends who rarely have the opportunity to enjoy Indian cuisine. We all choose the buffet, which was fresh, hot, very tasty, and in a word . . . 'excellent.' We enjoyed a good assortment of our favorite dishes along with naan bread and desserts. The service is friendly and attentive. We will definitly stop here again when in Seattle and ready for a most enjoyable meal.

This is the place to go (either the Ravenna or Ballard location) for great Indian food in Seattle. Our favorite dishes: Malai Kofta and Fish Goa Curry. The Nan and the Kingfisher on tap is great too.

I got the chicken tikka masala and garlic naan. It was sooo yummy! I will definatly be going there very soon.

This little neighbourhood bistro in the Roosevelt Community of North Seattle is a true gem. There is also a store in Ballard, but this one is easier to get seated. No wait time whatsoever. Their curries and sauces are all so tasty and delicious. For an appetizer, try the Curried Mussels or the Ground Chicken Samosa. Next, try the Mulligatawany Lentil Soup. Chef specialities include Rack of Lamb Masala, Mango Chicken and King Prawn Korma. Among the vegetarian courses, try Eggplant Bhartha, Daal Maharani, Okra Masala and Saag Paneer (Indian cheese in creamed spinach.) They have a great selection of Naan (garlic and basil is the best) and the Onion Kulcha is to die for! And finish off with a cup of complementary Kheer (Rice Pudding). Lastly, the bar is great and fully stalked! It sports a number of speciality cocktails including a Pomegranate Martini and a Mediterranean Margarita with muddled cucumber and mint. Simply the best!

Another tasty but overcrowded Ballard eatery.

India Bistro was a delight. We were visiting family in Ballard and decided to try an early dinner since we had a toddler in our party. The staff was so friendly and especially good with the little one. We really appreciated that. But most important, the food was very good. A good selection. I especially enjoyed the Mango Chicken. Love the breads! This was our second time there, and we will return the next time we are in Ballard.

In spite of having lived in the Ballard neighborhood for over eleven years I never visited India Bistro, but a friend's enthusiastic recommendation finally got me in the door! It is a cozy space with a small lunch buffet compared to some other Indian restaurants I have been to, but it still offered a very nice selection of veg and non-veg entrees. The food was fresh and spicy, but not too spicy. It is a great neighborhood spot and good value.

6417 Roosevelt.. the second restaurant by the Ballard people. We think it’s the best Indian restaurant in town. The flavors are authentic , the portions are huge, the atmosphere is elegant, the food presentation is western, (You wont be seeing unrecognizable “baby food ‘here. ) and its reasonably priced! This a place that I could take my mom, who won’t eat in an ‘ethnic” restaurant . and she would be happy!

Overall the food was pretty good, especially the Tikka Masala, but the star of the meal was the Spinach Naan. Filled with tons of spinach, buttery and crispy, we ended up ordering a second serving of the naan to take home because it was that good! Cute little patio facing Ballard Ave & Market allows for a fun night out.

Coming from the UK, I'm used to really good Indian food. There are so many bad ones here in Seattle, but I'm glad to say that India Bistro in Ballard make the dishes the way they should be! Never get the buffet, always order from the menu and say you want it authentic and they'll do you proud!

This is an excellent Indian restaurant, provided that you are not in a hurry. That holds true whether you are ordering takeout or in-house. Their service is slow, even when there are only 5 tables occupied in the restaurant. And there are a lot of staff working in the front, so perhaps it's an issue of not enough staff in the kitchen. Takeout seems to be no better. One time, I had to wait such an insanely long time past what was promised that they apologized and explained that it was because of mandatory time commitments for third party food delivery services. I don't know if it's true or not, but in either case, I think direct business should take priority over third party... though, I guess I can understand why it does not. Enough of that, though. The food. The portion sizes are very good, and the dishes are delicious. We usually get Chicken Tikka Masala and Aloo Gobi, but have also had Lamb Tikka Masala, and Lamb Vindaloo. All good. They have one of the more wonderful versions of Naan that I've had, and the spice levels tend to be true to what you'd expect them to be. All in all, it's the best option for miles... just wish they'd sort out the rate of service.

this was a delivery, that part was ok but the food although arrived hot was anything but spectacular. Indian food should have layers of flavors some hot and spicyness mellowed out with things like yogurt, it is a delight when its done right. This was not done right. Had two massala's one chicken one lamb. Lamb was the better of the two, spicier but still one dimensional so nothing to rave about, the meat was ok. The chicken masala however was a waste, bland tasteless, like tomatoe sauce poured over chicken and the chicken itself was rubbery and tasteless, I think boiled. I threw most of it away. Would I go back no! not even second chances here. Delivery was good from yelp24 but the drink was left out, it was adjusted by yelp. This would not be a recommended place if you want to experience good Indian cooking.

We had a late dinner here and received excellent service, very good food and a sensible tab for the cost.

I initially went here for a friend's surprise birthday party. I live 3.5 hours away and I've been back to this restaurant at least 4 times. If I happen to be going to Seattle, I make a point of going by India Bistro.

I give it just four out of five stars only because there are a couple of Indian restaurants in Seattle that I think are a bit better. But, still, the food is flavorful, the naan is fresh and warm, and they offer takeout. Great location, too, in Ballard near coffee shops, a gelato shop, boutiques, and nightlife.

We just moved to the Ballard area and were really missing our Indian restaurant from our previous West Seattle hood. We decided to give India Bistro a try. We were able to order online, which was pretty helpful. The food was ready right when I arrived and the staff was really friendly. The food itself was quite good. I had the Chicken Vindaloo and my wife had the Saag Paneer. Both were really good with just the right amount of spice. The Garlic Naan was just OK but certainly not bad. It came with plenty of tasty rice and there was enough of everything for leftovers the next day. It isn't quite as good as our old place however, it is still good in it's own right and we will very likely be coming back in the future.

Great lunch buffet for a great price. My wife loves Indian food....I'm OK with it. We had a great lunch, as good as anything you'll get in India. If you want great Indian food....you'll get it here. Service is good and atmosphere is fine.

Very good.

Haven't been here for a few years, but when I lived in Seattle it was always my #1 Indian. And so it still is. The food is unpretentious but well prepared and has all the subtle nuances of the very best Indian restaurants, but which is often lacking in the run-of-the-mill places on so many high streets. Lamb jalfreezi has often been my dish of choice at this place and it is always good with tender and succulent cuts -- not the usually inferior meat offered by so many other establishments, the quality of which can be covered up by over-spicing. Not so here. My dining companions (all of whom are well traveled) enjoyed other, varied dishes, and the consensus across the table was that India Bistro remains one of the best value and best quality places to be found anywhere. And, after five years away the owner still remembered me, and that certainly helped confirm my good and warm feelings about the place.

We went to India Bistro on a Thursday night. It was early, but I was surprised at how few patrons were there. We almost had the place to ourselves. The pakoras and spinach naan were very good. I had Murgh Jalfraizies (chicken marinated with vegetables and spices), and my wife had the Chicken Korma. The Korma was better. It's not the best Indian food I've ever had, but it was certainly very good, and I would go back again. It may be different on the weekend, but during the week, it's a place to eat away from the hustle and bustle!

The food here is delicious like any Indian food. Nothing special about the menu but serving sizes are generous, especially the naan. Servers were attentive with water glasses but had an off-putting demeanor. Almost impatient, but still nice enough that I'd recommend the place.

The place has consistently delivered the best Indian food in the area and is convenient for ordering before getting off the 17. Always, cooked to perfection and able to make special requests. Great atmosphere and service.

We have eaten here several times over the past few years and have never been disappointed. Last night we took three college age young adults with us to expand their knowledge of Indian food. We ordered family style and everyone loved all the dishes. My favorite was the seafood platter - the fish and shrimp were perfectly cooked and spiced beautifully. The coconut curry chicken was also a standout. In a neighborhood with many excellent options, add India Bistro to your list.

This is my new favorite indian food restaurant in Seattle. Good for kids and nice buffet.

OMG! I love love love this place! Best korma EVER!!!!!! Their chai is so good too! I'm a chai snob so it has to have the full flavor with all the spices and not just lipton with masala. I come here once a week. I try other places and no one else delivers the flavor like they do! So yummy! Every other place in Seattle doesn't compare. Portions are large. Love it!

We admit to getting in a rut. We LOVE LOVE LOVE the Aloo Gobi (spicy Potato & Cauliflower) and Murgh Jalfraizies (chicken marinated with vegetables and spices). So much that we order it every time to share. Prices are good, house wine is very affordable, people are friendly and service is good. Restaurant is nicely decorated with white table cloths. While very affordable, dining here feels like a special night out.

Not only is the food nuanced, delicious and elegantly served but the restaurant itself is cozy and warm and makes you feel good as soon as you walk in the door. I have been coming here for 15 years and have never had anything but delicious food from start to finish! I love everything here, Lamb Methi, Keema Naan, Murg Shorba; their lunch buffet is great too; not as large as some others but the quality of the food more than makes up for it! My daughter loves their chicken curry and declares it the best she's ever had and she has had a lot of chicken curry in her life. : ) Parking can be really tough in Ballard so plan accordingly!

This is defintely a go to for great indian food!!! There is not an ounce of fancy but who needs it when you need curry and authentic Indian food?? I love fiding treasures.

Really delicious and affordable lunch buffet! We went on Sunday around 1 and the place was about half full. There was a nice selection of dishes including Saag Paneer, my favorite, and the service was very friendly. It would be nice to see just one or two more vegetarian dishes, but if you don't mind chicken there are plenty of options! We will definitely be back, as it's a great deal and the best Indian food either of us has had for a while.

We were satisfied with our meal. We are used to get some "specials" at our favorite indian restaurants like some dips. That is not the case here. A napkin fell to the floor but was placed again on the table. The place was quiet, the staff friendly.

This was dinner, not the lunch buffet. Dinner is pretty expensive. The food was all right, if you like this kind of food. My complaint is that the service was poor. We ordered an appetizer that never came. When the main courses came, we asked about it, were told, oh, I'll go get it, whereupon I said no, never mind, we would rather do without it at this point. But, the charge for the appetizer was on the bill, sure enough. I told the wait person about it, and she said she would make sure it was removed before the charge was run. But, it was not removed. They told me they could not change the charge because they had already run it through and would run a credit through. You can't do that kind of stuff to me and expect a good review.

Food was good, but no real 'wow' factor; staff very friendly. Nothing like Lexington Ave. in New York, where there is one fine Indian restaurant after another. It was a rather cold brisk day, so there wasn't any outdoor dining. My daughter eats there frequently and is pleased. She has visited India, so I'll accept her opinion, it is very good, and it is reasonable.

Wow. Just wow. Outstanding service, well prepared and highly authentic Indian cuisine. Best lamb chops ever, and some of the finest Indian food overall you can find in Seattle. Wine and beer list is simple but effective and a full bar seals the deal. I can't believe I haven't been here before! You need to go!

I've been trying to find an Indian buffet that operates on weekends since I moved to Seattle nearly a year ago. This was the first place that I found, and I don't need to look any further...I'll keep coming back. We stopped in on a Sunday afternoon and it was fairly busy but, after seeing in the window that the lunch buffet took place every day for $8.95 a person, we decided to fight the crowd. We were seated promptly and our drink orders showed up within a couple of minutes of being taken. When we hit the buffet, we found the food (about 12 different dishes) to be fresh and flavorful with a wide variety of options that satisfied the gluten-free and vegetarian diets in our party. We enjoyed everything we tried and will certainly go back, as soon as we stop being full from yesterday's visit.

I didn't know you could do Indian food this poorly. The buffet food was virtually spice-free and the nan bread was hot, but uncooked inside and still pasty. Just going through the motions here.

I live in Ballard (location of the restaurant) and am Indian. I have visited this place since I came to Seattle in 1999 (and also a number of other Restaurants in the Seattle and Bellevue areas). Within Seattle, I consider India Bistro to be one the best Indian restaurants serving North Indian food. The food has been consistently good for both the lunch buffet or a la carte (dinner) and the Service is very good. Highly recommended for nice tasting Indian food. Please do note that the Spice rating for this place is similar (1-5) to other Restaurants but a rating of 3 here is pretty spicy (even for an Indian).......

This is probably one of the best Indian restaurants I've been to - and they are in the Entertainment coupon book!! Portions are sufficient and the staff are friendly. The only con is that the restaurant is too small for its popularity.

I had the lunch buffet, so I could try many items. It was very reasonably priced, and the food was very good. I was not disappointed in any of the items I tried. There is wine, beer, and a full bar. I had one of the lower cost red wines, and it was good.

We enjoyed the lunch buffet at the Indian bistro yesterday and enjoyed our meal. There were lots of chicken choices and several other offerings. I did notice that the buffet was not being refilled as much at the time that we arrived for a late(ish) lunch but what was there was yummy, the staff were very friendly and the place was nicely appointed and clean. We chose to sit outdoors so we did not get the linen service but it was nice to watch the city go by while we ate. Overall this is a nice restaurant and very good price point. The lunch buffet was $7.95.

This Indian restaurant has been in Ballard for more than 20 years and has outlived many other restaurants. I like to go here for lunch as they still have a reasonably priced buffet -it used to be $8 for all you can eat. I think I paid $10 the last time I was there. First price increase in years. I would not make an extra trip to go here but when I’m in Ballard it’s one of my favorite places. I like all their dishes. The buffet has standard Indian fare. Chicken, Vegetarian, Lamb, Rice and Naan.