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    The Punjab

    4.5 (131 reviews)
    ModerateIndian
    Closed Closed
    Updated 2 months ago

    Order The Punjab Takeout or Delivery

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    THE PUNJAB ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Intimate
    Classy
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - The Punjab

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    The image shows two small metal bowls of Indian curry placed on a restaurant table, garnished with cilantro leaves. One bowl contains a red curry, and the other a green curry. A tray of cooked white rice with a spoon rests below the bowls. The table has a dark surface with a red placemat, and there are empty white plates and utensils visible in the background.
    Daniel J.

    Snuggled away in the foothills of Johnston lies an amazing place for Himalayan and Indian cuisine. With a pepper for the "J", The Punjab calls to you from the road. Come in! Sit down! Relax with meeeee! Eat some of the best Indian food of your life. Not joking. We're going to do this review in reverse because in my opinion we're saving the absolute best for last. It will be worth the wait, I promise. Time Machine ignition......go. We left full and smiling as we waked out to our car. We had just finished two (yes two) incredible desserts. My wife who is chocolate lava cake fanatic HAD to lay claim to that choice, while she passed on her knowledge of Carrot Hawla to me and suggested I get that for myself. I have to admit, a carrot based dessert would never be my first choice but this was like nothing I had ever tasted. Rich, creamy, savory and sweet with just enough cooked pistachio texture to keep it interesting. Truly a very unique treat. The lava cake was smaller but don't let that deter you from getting it. Warm and gooey, chocolatey and delicious, with 2 scoops of ice cream to accompany it, made this the perfect choice. On to the entrees. We had the Veggie Korma and Palak Paneer. Now this the main event and it had every right to hold the championship belt. The Veggie Korma came out super fresh, garnished in steam. It smelled awesome! You know when you want to just dive right in but your brain tells you to chill because you KNOW you'll burn your tongue? Welp. Dove - in. Tongue - tingley. Regrets - none. The veggies were cooked very well and there were plenty of them, which is always a plus. Now, can I try and describe the Palak Paneer as accurately as possible? Well imagine little pillows of cheese tucked into some of the most velvety green tastiness you've ever seen. The only thing more iconic than Punjab's velvety green paneer goodness might be Scarlett O'Hara's green velvet curtain dress from Gone With the Wind. So there. Now where it all began for me. Where I became a believer, a fan, a die hard follower of this restaurant. "But Dan, didn't you say that we're going backwards with this review? Isn't this the appetizers? Like, the first things you ordered?" YES, YES, a hundred times YES!!! We chose the Punjab Veggie Platter first because we figured it would give us a chance to take a flavor trip through some different options. And let me just say, you're trippin' if this trip doesn't pack some much needed flavor and variety in your life. It had a little bit of everything from cauliflower to potato based magic morsels. Oh man. Oh man. Oh man. This is the moment we've been waiting for. The Paneer Johl Momo. * They're steamed dumplings filled with cheese and onion and magic and dreams and wishes and straight A's on your report card and memories of your first kiss and seeing the stars at night when you're out in the countryside with no light pollution and seeing the new tulips just poking their lil' heads out in early spring......all of that. Plus it comes delicately bathed in a spicy rich light sauce that will alter your reality (for the better) with every single bite, sip, and dip. This was possibly one of the best appetizers I have had ever. Like EVER ever. Seriously. And now we find ourselves at the very beginning. This place is spectacular. From the wood floors, bar, and furniture, to the cool motorcycle wine rack. The decorations and atmosphere are very cozy and welcoming and the staff is elite. They were working like a well oiled machine from the time we sat down until the moment they all wished us a fond farewell (and I mean ALL! Even the kitchen staff said goodbye, waived, and said "Thank You!") This place is a MUST TRY!! Or a MUST RETURN FOR MORE!! Or a OH EM GEE HOW DID I NOT COME HERE SOONER???? Without a doubt 5 out of 5, or 10 out of 10, or however your scale slides. The Punjab is next level.

    The image shows the exterior of The Punjab Indian Cuisine restaurant with a prominent illuminated sign displaying the restaurant's name and a chili pepper graphic. The storefront includes string lights hanging under the roof, and the interior is visible through glass doors and windows, revealing chandeliers and decorative elements. An air conditioning unit is mounted on the brick wall near the entrance.
    Bill P.

    Fantastic Indian and Himalayan meals. Homey decor, friendly atmosphere and service. Owned and operated by a lovely young couple. The food was served hot and made to your preference of spicy heat or mild. Highly recommended!!!

    Menu - The menu includes sections for Tandoori Special with items like Chicken Tikka and Lamb Chop, Himalayan Special with dishes such as Chicken Momo and Veg Chowmein, Rice & Biryani options including Chicken Biryani and Lamb Biryani, sides like Papadum and Mango Chutney, beverages such as Masala Chai and Mango Lassi, and desserts including Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai. Prices range from $2.50 to $21.95, with vegetarian and gluten-free options noted.
    David S.

    I thoroughly enjoy this little spot! First, the name is just fun to say! PUNJAB! Not to be confused with Daddy Warbucks 8' tall body guard. I am fairly certain they are referring to one of the 4 regions that comprise India. The northwest area to be exact! The food is so succulent and flavorful. Every dish I have had here appears to have been cooked slowly and deliberately. Whether vegetarian or meat, SO GOOD! I enjoy mixing and matching sauces with various rices and fried vegetarian foods. Never a bad bite! The buffet is rather small, but dynamite comes in small packages for certain! AND it comes with unlimited Naan!! FOR THE WIN! I'm not sure I have met a friendlier staff. Extremely attentive and ensuring that your delight is all their intent! One waitress went above and beyond, explaining each of the buffet dishes and what exactly they were. A+ all around. Highest recommendation! Bon appetite!

    Indian Food
    Mike F.

    This Indian spot is like a small whole in the wall with tasty food. The young owner can be seen running the whole front of the house by himself. However he is very pleasant and takes his time with all the guests. He does need some front of the house help but he will find it. The food can range from mild to heavy spice- so know your limit. The portions are good and the prices are good. The only thing is I wish they had a variety basket of Naan. But the sauces that they serve with the Naan are like jam. So good!! If you like Indian food I def suggest that u visit. I have been twice and enjoyed both times. I will be back.

    Onion Naan, Potato Alu Naan, Lamb Vindaloo, Chicken Tikka Masala, Methi Chicken - The image shows a table set with Indian food, including naan bread in baskets, bowls of rice, and three different curries garnished with cilantro. There are small containers of chutney or sauce, and the dishes are served in metal bowls with spoons. The setting appears to be a restaurant or dining area with a casual presentation.
    Stacy V.

    What's not to love about Punjab Indian Cuisine. First time here and we will be back! Went her on a weekend afternoon for lunch. Our server was the owner who checked in on us multiple times, refilled our waters quickly, and helped us make decisions on what to get! Everything was delicious and came out quickly. My party and I left completely full, I wasn't even able to finish half the dish I ordered. Lamb Vindaloo was the perfect amount of spice for my brother and I, but we love spice. My boyfriend thought it was too spicy, so beware if you can't handle spiciness. You can also request the chefs to put less spice in your dish as well! Methi Chicken was delicious! It is herby so folks that don't like that flavor should steer clear. It was creamy otherwise and the chicken was perfectly tender. Chicken Tikka Masala was great as well! For spice lovers, definitely request for it but other than that we got some tender chicken and it was great with the Naan. Owner recommends getting garlic naan with it next time though. All-around 5 star and I cant wait to go back!

    9 Piece Chicken Momo - The image shows a round aluminum tray filled with steamed chicken momos, arranged in a circular pattern. A small cup of orange-colored dipping sauce is placed in the middle of the momos. In the background, there are additional containers with sauces or broths, and the setting appears to be a food service area, likely at The Punjab restaurant in Johnston, RI.

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    7 months ago

    The food was excellent. The staff were attentive without being intrusive. Totally worth the 45 minute drive.

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    11 months ago

    Who needs to go to Providence when you have such a fabulous spot like this!!!! The food was amazing and the staff was awesome!!!!!

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    3 years ago

    I've gotten takeout a couple times and the food is fantastic. I would highly recommend

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    2 years ago

    Fantastic Indian and Himalayan food!! And love the staff. Always so friendly and helpful!!

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    3 years ago

    The food was absolutely amazing-- always is. The quality and flavor are the best in the area!

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    2 years ago

    Got delivery. Food was great. Some of the best Indian in the area. Delivery was prompt

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    6 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Hands-down, the most amazing Indian food you'll ever have! And the owners there are so kind and attentive. You won't regret it.

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    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - The Punjab

    Do you no longer offer a buffet?

    I apologize for inconvenience. we do not offer buffet anymore.

    Do you have a buffet? If yes what is the price during weekends and weekdays?

    We have buffet Friday Saturday Sunday 11.00am to 2.30 PM $11.99. Weekend 12.99

    View All 4 Questions

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    Chaska - D- LAMB ROGANJOSH

    Chaska

    (290 reviews)

    $$

    Love the food here! This is our third or fourth time eating here and it always impresses. The food…read moreis rich and flavorful. There's so much to choose from and you can tell each dish is bringing a unique experience to your taste buds. The service is also very good. Everyone is attentive and makes sure you're have a great experience. The only knock I have is that it is loud and makes it difficult to hear/converse with people. Otherwise, I love the food and will continue to eat here!

    My partner and I stopped in around lunch for a cocktail and a quick bite, settling in at the bar…read more The space is visually striking; large, expressive portraits hang on the walls, colorful throw pillows line the banquettes, and shelves of labeled spice jars sit in the corner like a little apothecary. The bar itself is dramatic, a wall of bottles backed by bold red shelves. It all adds up to a room that feels like someone put real thought into every corner. We ordered the Ginger Turmeric Martini, which is made with Citron Vodka on the menu but we swapped in ISCO Gin; a substitution the bartender handled without hesitation. He mentioned he adds a tiny pinch of salt to some cocktails to brighten them up, a small detail, but the kind that tells you they actually think about what they're making. The drinks were served in cut crystal coupe glasses with a small edible flower floating on top, and they tasted as good as they looked. For food, we went with the Chili Cauliflower and the Dal Makhani. The cauliflower came out crispy in all the right ways, each floret holding its texture under a sticky, lightly sweet heat with a bit of tamarind that shines right through; tangy, a little smoky, deeply savory. The Dal Makhani was exceptional. The lentils were cooked with real intention, not reduced to mush but offering just a slight pop, and the overall flavor was rich and complex in a way that made it hard to put the naan down. Speaking of which, the garlic naan (sans cilantro, seeing as my partner has the gene where it tastes like soap) arrives charred and pillowy in equal measure, loaded with bits of fresh garlic. The service matched everything else. We were greeted warmly, and the staff genuinely seemed interested in getting to know us rather than just moving us through. That kind of rapport is rare and, when you find it, you notice. A spot we love to visit whenever we are in the area, and for good reason.

    Empire Biryani & Grille - Tried the roti and samosas with my chicken tikka masala this time.

    Empire Biryani & Grille

    (35 reviews)

    I always like trying new Indian restaurants and when I saw the nearly perfect reviews for Empire I…read moreknew I had to stop by. The parking situation is tight. Maybe there's another lot I didn't see in the back? But the restaurant itself is beautiful. Lots of wooden features that don't necessarily give off "Indian restaurant" but was still nice to look at all the same. There's a decent amount of seating and a large bar where they also keep games. I really liked the music they were playing as well. I constantly found myself dancing along to it. For food I had the chili baby corn for an appetizer, chicken saag, and cheese naan. Also had a Limca to drink which are always wonderful. The baby corn was amazing! The portion was generous and I loved the chili sauce. It was appropriately dressed and fried to perfection. Chicken saag was also excellent. I prefer mine a little creamier but I loved the fresh taste and generous pieces of chicken. The saag itself was properly spiced and came with a generous portion of basmati rice. Finally, the cheese naan was appropriately priced and crispy with a generous portion of cheese. Was it some of the best Indian food I've ever had? Absolutely! It was right up there and I hope to stop by their lunch buffer sometime soon. I will say that the service was a little slow and the waiters didn't check in as much as I'm used to. But that didn't hinder the exceptional quality of the restaurant.

    My family loves biryani, and since this place seems fairly new, we decided to give it a try. We…read morehadn't tried food from here before, but a few reviews mentioned that their biryani was good, so that made us choose the place especially because there are too many Indian restaurants in the area. We ordered a few different chicken dishes. My family enjoyed the food overall, though everything turned out spicier than expected even though we selected mild to medium for all the items.

    India Restaurant - Garden Patio

    India Restaurant

    (820 reviews)

    $$

    Summit

    ***Door dash order…read more I've come accustomed to trying Indian food everywhere I go, even when it's a work trip, and I'm too tired to dine in, so I door dash. Didn't make a mistake with India Restaurant (although they could use a better name). I went all in on spice and got the chicken curry vindaloo and hot & spicy vindaloo naan bread. WHAT?! Read that again. It was freaking amazing. I may have been dying from the heat but I'll take the pain of the amazing flavor from this bread any day. Was a ton of food for the price ($26) which is way more than my solo self could devour. Tons of rice, sauce, meat, with a garnish pepper on top. YUM.

    Yesterday two of us went to India (that is the restaurant, not the country) and as usual ordered…read moretoo much, anticipating that we would inevitably take some food home. We were seated at a booth, a little tight but comfortable. We ordered cocktails which we don't usually do. My companion had a chai-tini and I had anew Delhi Nectar. Both were delicious. We also had soda water which many restaurants don't charge, but here they do. For food we had karahi ghost with wild rice - a good and delicious choice - the chicken sheesh kabob with potatoes (avoiding kale), mutter paneer and naan. All the dishes were excellent. Thiese were accompanied by raita, and mixed pickle. We like the places' decor better than any of the other Indian restaurants in RI. Our server, Olga I believe, was cheerful, helpful and attentive - making our experience more enjoyable. The check came to $125, more than usual but we took enough of it home for another meal. We will be back, which we do every two or three months.

    The Punjab - indpak - Updated May 2026

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