I'll admit, I'm an absolute sucker for a good theme and beautiful décor. A pretty face doesn't…read morealways guarantee a pretty meal, but Bhaijaan definitely delivered.
A small group of us went and indulged in the following:
Cocktails: Negroni, Shikanji Vodka Sour, and Don's Espresso Martini (I asked for it less sweet, and they obliged). All were 10/10 excellent. Note: Expect NYC pricing, especially with the Hendrick's Gin upcharge.
Palak Patta - Lightly fried, with a tamarind sauce, yogurt on the side (by request) and honestly very enjoyable to eat. Crunchy, light, perfect.
Lamb Shank Rogan Josh - One big ole shank with an excellent sauce primed for naan scooping. The meat was fall of the bone tender. Relive your medieval times/ren faire dreams and chew off the bone when you're done.
The Chicken Dum Biryani - Arrived with small, tender chicken pieces tucked into fragrant, flavor packed rice, all sealed under a fun dough cap. It tasted as expected. Very good! But I will admit, I prefer a friend's homemade version a little better. The jackfruit version looked interesting for a future meal.
Tiger Prawns - Absolutely massive and delicious! You'll only get 4 for $35.
Smoked Kadhai Chicken - Waiter did not ask about spice preference, and this one came out hot as lava. Minimal smokey flavor. I mean, if it was smokey, my mouth was like a 5 alarm fire so I wouldn't have tasted it anyway. Sauce was thick, full of chilis and peppers. if you like bell peppers, this is a dish for you. Also good for naan scooping!
Saffon Pistachio Kulfi - Looked pretty in pink but straight up, not a dish for me. Didn't like the texture and it was simultaneously bland and sweet. I thought the pistachio would be more prevalent. Pass!
Interior was beautiful, and visually fun. Loved all the peacocks, and soothing green tones around. Friends who have been before remarked about the service, which we had no issue with. While our waiter seemed young, and maybe new-er to the restaurant (based on our questions), he was attentive and quick to swap plates, answer questions and politely laugh at our bad jokes. Bartenders were also friendly and receptive.
Protips:
1) Valet parking and this spot is RIGHT after the gas station. You'll miss it if you're not paying attention. I ended up parking on the street down the block, for a little added exercise, but do watch the signs.
2) While the interior is NYC-cocktail-bar-chic, you don't necessarily need to be donning full cocktail bar attire. Smart casual, business casual, perhaps a cute little dress if you're on a date!
Overall, prices are on the high side, at least for a cuisine many consider "cheap". However, there are so, so many more dishes on the menu that I wanted to sink my teeth into, so I will be back.
4.5/5 rounded up for 5 stars.