Restaurant Review: Desi Indian Lounge
Desi Indian Lounge delivered one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had in a while. From the moment we sat down, the warm and hospitable service set the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable evening. The atmosphere leans towards modern and vibrant, with club-style music that gives the space a lounge feel without ever overpowering conversation—easygoing, stylish, and comfortable.
We started with the Gobi Manchurian, featuring crispy cauliflower florets tossed in a tangy, bold Manchurian sauce. It had just the right amount of heat and set the pace for the rest of the meal. The Thepla Chicken Tacos were a fun and inventive surprise. A spiced crispy roti acted as the taco shell, layered with carrot slaw and tandoori mayo. The Momos, an Indo-Tibetan style dumpling served with green pea purée and pickled pearl onions, were delicate and satisfying.
For mains, Tandoori Prawns brought a lovely char and smokiness to the meal while deep aromatic spices—cardamom, cloves, and Kashmiri chili—seasoned beautifully tender Lamb Rogan Josh. But the dish that truly stole the show was the Malvani Chicken. A rich coconut-based sauce infused with Malvani spice enveloped chicken so tender it practically melted in your mouth. These dishes, like much of the menu, offer a contemporary twist on Indian classics—familiar flavours presented with a fresh, modern flair.
We ended with the Foxtail Millet Pudding, a comforting blend of coconut milk, jaggery, cardamom, and rose water. Light and fragrant, it’s the kind of dessert that leaves you satisfied without feeling heavy.
For drinks, Desi Indian Lounge offers a selection of signature cocktails. While a mix like the Crimson Beach—rum, Campari, coconut water, and lemongrass—bring the energy of Goa’s sunset shores to life, there are also excellent mocktails for non-drinkers that deliver the same creativity without the alcohol. The beer and wine selection is thoughtfully curated as well, including Indian craft beers that pair beautifully with the bold spices and rich flavours of the food.
Another point in the restaurant’s favour is its well-priced menu. Considering the quality, creativity, and portion sizes, the value feels spot on. I also appreciated how clearly the menu was laid out, with plenty of options for vegetarians and for those with dairy or wheat allergies.
Service throughout the evening was attentive and polished. It’s also worth noting that Chef Bal Ajagaonkar, the talent behind the menu, brings over 15 years of experience, including working at several prestigious five-star hotels and collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs. His accolades—including the Vancouver Curry Cup People’s Choice Award in 2025 and a recent bronze medal at the Kitchen Party Vancouver Competition—shine through in the thoughtful execution of each dish.
Overall: Desi Indian Lounge offers vibrant, contemporary Indian cuisine, complemented by warm service, creative drinks, and a relaxed, modern atmosphere — an excellent spot for both adventurous food lovers and anyone looking for Indian classics with a fresh take. I’d return in a heartbeat.