Mantra is, hands down, the best Indian food on the Northshore. As of the day I am writing this, I probably eat here more than any other restaurant on the Northshore. That should tell you something. They do have a lunch buffet, but I have only been for dinner. The location is a little fancy because it used to be Desi Vega's, but honestly, it works. Walk inside and the first thing that hits you is the smell. Lawd. It smells incredible. My go-to is the Karahi Chicken, and I honestly cannot accurately describe how good it is. Rich, flavorful, loaded with spice, and just ridiculous. I get it as hot as possible, which is still relatively mild on my completely broken heat tolerance scale, so take that recommendation with a grain of salt. The kids absolutely love the butter chicken. I finally tried a bite and immediately understood why. It is rich, creamy, flavorful, and probably the perfect introduction if you are new to Indian food or a little nervous about trying it. And then there is the naan. Get the garlic naan. Seriously. Garlic naan may be one of mankind's greatest achievements. If you have never tried Indian food, come here. If you think you do not like Indian food, come here. If you already love Indian food, you should have been here already. I have eaten here a lot, and I have never had a bad meal. Everything is full of flavor, the food is consistently great, and I leave every single time wondering how soon is too soon to come back. Just come here. It is wonderful. read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Chicken Karahi - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

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Amazing experience at Mantra. Not being very familiar with Indian cuisines the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating from beginning to end. The food was amazing and wow what a beautiful restaurant and interior decor. Surprisingly great happy hour specials for such a fine establishment. Five dollar glasses of wine and half off many beers 3:00 to 6:00. Cauliflower appetizer and coconut chicken were both really good. Will definitely be back to try more off of that impressive menu! Highly recommend! read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Happy Hour - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

Me and my girl came here and it was so delicious ! the interior design is so luxury and glam , with beautiful decor and ambiance. The hostess so nice and they accommodate us so much when we came last night ! . The food outstanding yum yum , will be returning , for the korma and samosa it's amazing . The service top notch with the gentlemen coming to check on us , all the servers so nice , best of the best , vip experience in the booth , great place to eat healthy in the lounge on a Saturday night read more

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I felt the need to update my review as a rebuttal to the "gentleman" who gave Mantra their first 1-star review. This person admittedly hasn't even patronized this restaurant, rather, he's basing his review on the fact that they offer a lunch buffet instead of the quality of the food and service. It's not possible to offer an objective review without actually eating at the restaurant. He spent half of his sad day badmouthing them on their social media rather than actually dining there and giving an honest review. So be your own judge. Yes, they do offer a daily lunch buffet which is quite common in western Indian food restaurants, and is in no way an indication of poor quality food or unsanitary practices. If you enjoy Indian cuisine, go judge for yourself rather than take the word of someone who's never eaten there. Update: yes, "Dennis" claims he did go to the restaurant. However on Mantra's facebook page, he openly admitted being seated and then promptly leaving once he realized it was a buffet. I'm sure he's deleted his comment by now since he's surely realized how foolish it made him look. So despite his claim that he's been to the restaurant, he's never eaten there. Then he spent most of his day badmouthing the place because, for whatever reason, he seems to have a personal agenda. The best part was when he blocked me on Facebook for pointing out that he's basing his opinion on the fact that it's a buffet rather than actually eating at the restaurant. Hilarious. Ignore this fool. The same goes for the other 1-star review coming from an obviously fake yelp account which has exactly one review... Sigh...another "update" from Dennis. We all thank you for your creative writing project. And as entertaining as it was, it still doesn't change the fact that you, by your own admission, have never eaten at Mantra. I think my review and the reviews from others who actually HAVE eaten there and enjoyed it carry significantly more weight than yours. Don't forget to block me again. I'm sure I'll recover after a good cry. Nerd. read more

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We have been waiting for this day!! I have been anxiously awaiting the opening of Mantra since the first whispers of its opening up in the Northshore. We were fans of the restaurant in Metairie and it was only because of the food. The original restaurant left nothing in the way of ambiance, and was truly a place where the food spoke for itself. Knowing that the chef and his wife, the original face and manager of the Metairie location are here made me know that this was going to be an amazing addition to the NS. We came in today hoping to get carry out to bring our friends who just had a a baby. However, with the grand opening they were just serving buffet. We told the lovely young lady at the host stand our conundrum and she was so kind enough to give us carry out boxes to self-fill and take for the price of the buffet. We packed them up and were able to give to our friends, still at the hospital. We truly appreciated it and I know they did too. Taking photos of our packed takeout boxes would not do the food justice but everything was insanely delicious. The buffet had over 15 dishes and was replenished throughout the service. For $20 it was an amazing deal and we hope the do this again in the future. We took a little bit of everything from chicken biryanis, chicken tikka masala, tandoori chicken, dal makhani, naan, aloo tikki, goat curry and the accompanying chutneys. We know this will be in our weekly dinner rotation. The new location is also just as quality as their food was. It's located in the old Desi Vegas which is a beautiful restaurant. The grand opening was packed and people were happily waiting for their tables. I cannot wait to come back for the main menu and review individual dishes. read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Packed for opening - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

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We had been waiting a long time for this restaurant to open in Mandeville. We've been a few times already but tonight was exceptional. We had tandoori chicken with a nice spice. We also ordered spicy curry chicken with dark meat, and cheese naan. Everything was fantastic. This is the only Indian restaurant in Mandeville and we will of course will always return for my husband's Indian fix. But we definitely recommend chicken tandoori and dark meat chicken curry! We always like sitting at the bar and dining. We were very pleased tonight with our selection. read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Chicken curry (dark meat) with high spice. Their awesome rice and delicious cheesy naan. - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

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I have enjoyed Mantra Indian Cuisine tremendously! Their new location in Mandeville is stunning. Everything is beautiful inside. The staff keeps things spotless and stocked. You can tell a lot of thought and love went into every aspect of it. Indian food can be very intimidating to try if you aren't familiar with the dishes, that's why I love the daily lunch buffet option. It helps to be able to see what something is right in front of you instead of trying to imagine it, and it also gives you an opportunity to try a little bit of everything. The food is beyond delicious! They also include lots of different options for anyone with allergies or diet preferences.. Gluten free options, keto, vegetarian and vegan. And for those who like a drink, they have an awesome cocktail selection, beers and my favorite part is their house wines... they are on tap! I've never seen a place do that before. Service is great! Ambiance is beautiful and food is amazing. Can't wait to try the entire menu! read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Mantra's dining room - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

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Lunch buffet today was a pure delight! I am so happy to have an Indian restaurant back on the Northshore. Having an excellent lunch buffet with numerous delicious options is a huge perk. Lots of vegetarian options. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with contemporary soft music to give a relaxing atmosphere. They also have a huge bar with lots of happy hour specials. read more

I went with another couple. Each couple ordered an appetizer. The other couple ordered the shrimp tempura, we ordered the calamari. The shrimp comes to the table. Our appetizer came out over 5 minutes later. We order our entrees. One entree comes out. 5 minute later another entree comes out. Another 5 minutes and the last two come out. Our server said she didn't know what was going on. It was like they were cooking one order at a time. I could see if this were the opening week, but they've been around a little while. BTW,the food was just ok for all of us. $95.00, with tip, for 2 meals and 1 appetizer. I doubt that we'll be back. Very nice looking place. read more

Excellent food, inattentive service. I was just about done with my meal before the server (female with glasses) bothered to come check on us. And it was a pretty slow lunch. She was only present to take order (not much of a welcome, menu introduction or explanation of buffet) and again to take payment for which I awkwardly tipped 20% because she was hovering over my shoulder. I also didn't want to short change the food runner and the server assistant that was 100x more pleasant, welcoming and attentive. Anyway, not horrible but there's room for improvement with proper staff training. Oh, also kinda weird that the staff breaks for lunch in the dining room while guests are dining. Partially the reason why our server was prob distracted chatting with them. read more

The service, the food. My daughter and I went to New York City 2 years ago and that's when I ate Indian food for the first time, and the food at Mantras was just as good or better everything was fresh, hot and delicious. Me and my family will definitely be back. read more

The coconut chicken is my favorite everything is delicious! Naan and samosas are perfect. Chicken biryani is spicy but yummy. Great atmosphere and the outside lighting is really attractive at night. If you like Indian food, you will love this place. The food is HIGH quality, with sophisticated dining. read more

Was excited to have Mantra move to the northshore, only to discover a buffet service on their opening day. We were also informed that this buffet will be a daily occurrence for their lunch service, with a menu only available for dinner. This does not inspire confidence about quality! Our friends we have told about this are not likely to go now, and we are not likely to return... Buffets are disgusting, so who are they trying to attract on the northshore? Folks, keep in mind they're doing buffets for lunch... every day One has to wonder if the same buffet foods will be reused for their dinner service (they will not want to waste food due to costs)... notwithstanding that buffets are inherently unsanitary! Update: To be clear, I did go to this restaurant on opening day, despite the laughable claims made by another reviewer. So, you can choose to patronize a restaurant that will inevitably reuse buffet food, or you can use your better judgement. Note: the owners did not advertise they were doing this on opening day, nor did they advertise their restaurant as a buffet. There are obvious reasons why they didn't do so. If you want great and innovative modern Indian cuisine made with quality and with care, go to Saffron on the southshore If you want to eat at a buffet, go to Mantra (which I do not recommend) Update 2: Bill is certifiably insane. Read his first review. A total clown who feels the need to constantly reply to my take on this restaurant, but I don't care about his opinion at all! LOL Also, I have far, far greater extensive and worldwide dining experience than that clown, from dives to Michelin three stars, and I have relatives in the industry. I blocked Bill on Facebook because he is a dumb loon who keeps stalking my replies because he feels personally offended, and the clown even thinks it's some kind of conspiracy that someone else left a negative review. I didn't delete my Facebook review. I'm going to also block him here on Yelp now, because the guy is nuts and stupid. The most hilarious thing - which shows you can't take Bill W.'s opinion seriously at all - is that he is comparing Mantra to Michelin-rated restaurants! Hilarious! Lmao Mantra isn't even following Louisiana state law regulations regarding having a buffet (with shields/sneeze guards over the food, signs telling people to wash their hands, etc) Everyone I've told is rightfully put off, because buffets are generally unsanitary... and this one isn't even following state law regulations! read more

We are so excited to have Mantra on the Northshore. We used to cross the lake all the time to eat in Metairie. We love Indian food and are glad they are now here down the street from our house. My favorite is the Chicken Tikki Marsala. Come and support these amazing people. Let's show them what Northshore support looks like. Restaurant looks great too. read more

Went for the lunch buffet. 2 days in a row. This is not one of those buffets where you go to load up 5 plates of food and be a glutton. This is a respectable buffet where you go to sample the different types of cultural food we don't typically get on the northshore. Goat, fish, chicken, hearty vegetables well spiced. This place is F'n awesome ya' heard?! Best in class staff & great service. Run, don't walk to get some of this greatness. And if ya wanna be a glutton with ya 5 plates buffet go find a Golden Corral someplace. read more

Delicate blend of exotic seasonings. We really needed this place. Highly recommend! Will be coming back!

Been twice for the lunch buffet. Beautiful restaurant and good food. However both times we went, a lot of the food from the buffet was cold. This really affects the experience because food obviously, always tastes better hot--even warm. There's also no doubt that other customers are experiencing the same disappointment. The fancy chafers are obviously not doing their job, so I hope the owners replace these sometime soon. read more

I knew of this business from the original Metairie location. The food is excellent and the environment is nice. There's also a buffet at lunch for those who are not used to Indian food and can try many different types at once. read more

I usually don't say this about restaurants, but Mantra has changed my life. I was heartbroken when I heard the old location had to close. I've had a lot of good meals, but Mantra always stands out as some of the best food PERIOD I've ever had. I started going to the old location on the I-10 service road a few years ago and I've been back no fewer than 15 times since. I've taken friends, I've taken my parents, my taken girlfriends, everyone has had nothing but good things to say about it. I have not once had a bad meal there. You can tell every dish every day is prepared with love and utmost care. The chicken tikka masala was rich and flavorful, and the sauce was perfectly emulsified and not broken, not oily, not salty. The chicken breast itself was tender and juicy. The tandoori chicken was also tender, juicy supremely flavorful a little charred from being in the tandoor. The rice has whole spices in it, perfectly cooked. If you want Indian food, you can't do better than this. With food and staff like that, there is no doubt they will be successful in this new location. Make the trip from the Southshore, you WILL NOT regret it, trust me. I'll certainly be back. Love you all! read more

My first visit and did the lunch buffet with my daughter. The place is nice, much nicer than my formerly favorite Indian buffet in a gas station in Hammond. Service was fast and friendly. The food, fresh Nan, good tandoori chicken, curries. All in all a good experience if you're craving Indian. We will certainly be returning . read more

Mantra is 5 stars across the board- quality, service, ambience/decor, pricing, variety, you name it. Isabella took good care of us and helped my family have a memorable night. I highly recommend the coconut chicken curry with a side of garlic or cheese naan to soak up every last drop I will be back soon! read more

We went on a Monday for the buffet and enjoyed the experience. The food was tasty but mildly spiced. There was a great variety but centered on vegan and chicken dishes. The resturant was clean and the staff attentive to diners and ensuring that the buffet was well stocked. I was unlucky though in snagging a piece of tandori chicken as it was gone both times I went through the line. A guy just before me the second time took the last 4 pieces he needed outriggers to hold all the food he heaped on his plate. He got his money's worth. Oh well I didn't leave hungry either. My only real complaint was that the sherbert was rock hard and they didnt supply an ice scoop to get it, just a large ladle? I got som excellent cardamum kheer instead. Please support this excellent resturant, it deserves the communities support. read more

The food was delicious, we got Chana (chickpea) saag and chicken vindaloo. I love that there are a lot of vegetarian and vegan options. The service was good. Complimentary papadam when you sit down. The restaurant is beautifully decorated. We are so excited to finally have Indian cuisine on the northshore. And they do a buffet for lunch so its a great opportunity to try different things. read more

Mantra Indian Cuisine - Chana (chickpea) saag, chicken vindaloo, basmati rice - Indian Near Me - Mandeville, Louisiana

We went early in the day and enjoyed the lunch buffet... the butter chicken was amazing... finally and excellent Indian restaurant on the northshore! read more

The restaurant was beautifully decorated. Unfortunately, the food made a very poor first impression. It can be compared to opening a beautiful package only to find a lump of coal in the box. Would not recommend. read more

Absolutely delicious. I have tried most things on the menu and it has been consistently delicious

A great meal on our first visit tonight. Beautiful ambience, an inviting bar, good service and food. I think the reviews saying it's bland are only eating the lunch buffet. We ordered our Chicken Korma and Rogan Josh spicy and it had plenty of kick. Garlic naan was also very tasty. read more

Lunch buffet was excellent and I look forward to going back for dinner. Service was great.

Great food! Beautiful Renovation! Happy Staff! Great ambiance! The buffet is a great way to taste all their amazing dishes!!! So glad y'all are here!! read more

So, I ordered from the number I always ordered only to find out my food was sitting somewhere in Mandeville. Woman who answered the phone argued that it was somewhere on the website they had moved and they couldn't refund my money because they had already cooked. That's fine. However they didn't even offer to refund the tip. read more

Incredible flavors and perfectly prepared dishes with fantastic ambience! Service was outstanding. We haven't had an Indian restaurant in the Mandeville area for 15+ years....Welcome!! read more

Lunch was fantastic! While I don't normally love buffets, the option at Mantra was great. I was able to try many different dishes and flavors for a great price. The food was fresh and hot. Highly recommend and will be back! read more

We really enjoyed the buffet. It had tons of items to choose from. Very fresh, you must ask the server for some chili powder to make it as hot as you desire!! Very clean and reasonable. We will be back!! read more

Highly anticipated, but sorely disappointed. We ordered our long time favorite dishes - saag paneer, vegetable korma, naan, and an appetizer. All were a big letdown - the quality and flavor was subpar and oddly sweet. Not interested in returning. read more

The people that own/run the place are very kind. It took awhile to get seated at lunch but the hostess personally walked over and apologized and talked with me for a little while which I thought was nice. Lunch is buffet style, which is ok, but I would have preferred a full menu as their menu looks incredible. The food was delicious and my waitress was kind and funny. I'll definitely be back to try dinner! Nice to finally have Indian food on Northshore. read more

Finally Indian food has arrived in Mandeville and it is amazing! The inside is beautiful with fine dining aesthetics in an approachable way. The staff is kind and attentive even while they are so busy in their opening month. The food will more than satisfy your cravings for something new. The vegetable samosas were the perfect way to start the meal and they do not skimp on the size or filling. I loved the Kahari chicken. It was my first time trying that dish and you should give it a try too. I usually pair regular or garlic naan with Tamarind chutney for some sweetness but the naan is a must for any entree to soak up the flavors. This meal will have me coming back for more. Welcome Mantra! read more

We went with a group of folks on Friday. As a group that is known to drive all the way to Hammond on our lunch break to get Indian food, we were glad to hear about something moving closer. Not only close, but also had buffet. Overall we had a really good time. The buffet was nice and clean and the food was really good! I have no idea what that other guy that gave the 1 star review was talking about. Reading it felt like he was just trolling the page just to rage bait. We will definitely be back, only critique I would say is due to the buffet menu rolling is maybe post what's on there that day. Congrats on the first week and can't wait to dine there again! read more

service was great. I loved Mantra when it was in Metairie so was expecting the same quality. we ate from the buffet. honestly everything tasted the same- bland and no flavor. I cook Indian food all the time so I know what to expect. the best thing we ate was the naan! I normally give a restaurant 2 tries, but I don't think I can go back. very disappointed read more

If you truly love Indian cuisine, Don't waste your time going here. I can't believe I waited weeks to go here. I knew it was too good to be true. It was about as tasty as a frozen TV dinner. It was bad enough the food was lacking in spice, it also was lacking in flavor. I mean one dish tasted like the one next to it. Even the kheer, which I had, hoping for at least a decent dessert, looked and tasted like Cole slaw. So. I'm afraid that I will still have to drive to Hammond, Punjabi Dhaba, to get decent Indian food. I blew $25 on a buffet that I could not even enjoy one plate of. It's a shame that there is no local competition for this type of food. If you really enjoy true Indian food, then you know what I am talking about. There were no Indian people eating here, which is always a sign if it is the real deal or not. One and done for me. Too many really good places to go too. read more