At Devi's, I faced a luxury problem: an entree so unbelievably delicious that I regretted having eaten the (equally delicious) appetizers. Today, I am already full of regret for having left any portion of my tofu palak (that does the perfect cos-play for paneer that I've ever had) behind.
Devi's is a beautifully decorated former home. It's now a spacious restaurant with gilded murals on the walls (painted by the lovely owner?! I can't believe it but yes, it's true). Because tables are so well-spaced apart, you feel like you can breathe (or have a private conversation at the very least). Good for groups and I never say that, but here a group does not destroy the ambiance. I love that we had a choice of rooms, as the first room is cooler and we opted for the slightly less cool second room. Great vibes all around.
The menu has diverse offerings from the different regions of India, including my favorite, Southern, which, if you don't live in a major city with a lot of Indian restaurants, is often hard to find. I love dosas and idli because of the coconut chutney and hot sambar that is served with them. And they are more often than not, vegan (or easily made vegan by leaving out the butter).
We all shared idly, samosas and pakora, all as good as I've ever had (and I've had a lot). Like I said earlier, I was already full by the time my tofu palak arrived, but I powered through because oh my gods, this is proof that they exist. I ordered it very spicy and they delivered. I haven't had paneer in ages, but the way they prepare the tofu comes shockingly close. I'd be hard pressed to find anything like this even when I go back home to New York.
Service is the best-- they handled our table of five so that we were never wanting for anything (and we had a lot. My entire table loved their food). The nicest people own and operate this establishment.
I'm just glad that I visit Nashville on the regular so that I may return to Devi's. Thank you for exisiting! read more