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In the heart of art walk district. Clean and authentic Indian restaurant. Plenty of seating inside and out. No wait time for us on a Saturday night and yet still crowded. Plenty of vegan options which is a massive bonus. It began with the complimentary papadum and three sauces-so good. Aloo tiki appetizer (Known as an Indian potato latke) was delicious with garbanzo beans and chutney sauce. Our vegetable coconut curry special dish was enough for both since it came with rice, dal, naan, and salad. Excellent meal. Very flavorful and satisfying. Excellent service as well.
Ok technically the best meal we had on our last trip to LA was not in LA, but it was on this trip and it was at this place. A high compliment because LA has a lot of delicious food but this meal really blew us away. I love dosas and have had dosas in a couple of different places but this one we got (masala dosa) was on the caliber of ones we have had and better than some. We also got a really delicious mango curry that I will think about for the rest of my life - it tasted like if you made a curry sauce out of mango lassi but savory and it was so good. They also had yummy rice pudding and an appetizer made of potatoes and garbanzo, but I forget the name. Great service and a place we absolutely would visit again.
I love the Taji cafe. Food is tasty, the service is always friendly and nice. My favorite is chicken Tikka masala, mango lassi, and sweet pishori naan. The portions are large, so you can easily share one dish. Considering the quantity, the price is reasonable. They give you free rice pudding for free as a dessert. No parking. When I come to this restaurant, I park my car in the public parking.
Every time I eat here, I am impressed. So many delicious entrees, appetizers and desserts! If this restaurant was closer I would come here more often. The staff is super friendly and comes to check on your group. Vibes are relaxing (especially with the music playing) and chill.
So I had been here before and I enjoyed the food. My husband and I decided to come New Year's Day and gather with friends. So I called at least 1.5 hours before getting there and made a reservation! When we got there which was on time, they Didn't have a table for us! The hostess was RUDE! When it's their fault for not honoring our reservation! So he's like you have to wait, at least 20-30 mins! Excuse me! Whats the point of having a reservation then! Anyways they moved a couple to seat us! We had 7 adults and 1 kid! Food took over 45 mins! I had the samosa chat which I recommend and the chicken korma medium spice and also good! They took forever to bring the food, and someone else had the Korma and so they mixed it up though one was chicken And the other Lamb! Other people in the table had the combo, they were 2 sitting next to each other. So they get Garlic Naan part of the combo. Only of them got the garlic naan, so toward the end. We asked, hey we're missing the garlic naan for this meal. Their response was, it was mixed with the other person who has the combo. Anyways it wasn't much garlic naan so they brought one and made it sound like they brought one to replace that. Instead after I got home I realized they charged for their garlic bread they brought. Also the food portions are small for what they charge! They charge $3.99 for soda and $1.99 for refill for soda! What? Who does that? It's just SODA! Secret for that many reviews! They bribe people! After dinner, they bring you " free rice putting" and right after before brining the bill, they bring you QR code to rate them!! So check comes and they have 6% charge! RSC! So we ask what is this? Restaurant service charge! That's usually done in big cities such as LA which I have not seen! " to cover their employees" and! Hows that my problem! They had already charged 20% for service! Which was HORRIBLE! I should have made them take that out! Since I was not happy w their service for seating us late and for taking forever to get food ready and on top of it charging for unnecessary items! Before you dine here. Check everything and the 6% add on plus 20% Service charge! Plus over priced food! Won't return here
THE BEST INDIAN FOOD I HAVE TRIED! moving to ventura came with not a lot of options for indian food so we were blessed by being only 10 mins from this gem! everything is made with so much love and the flavor is insane!
This food was delicious. It was very empty when we got there but it was a weeknight so I wasn't too surprised. While we were there there were a few orders that came in for pick ups or DoorDash, and another couple that came in to eat. So we weren't the only ones that ate there on a random Thursday night which is a good sign. We ordered samosas appetizer, garlic chicken plate and mirchi (spicy) chicken plate. All food was good with a nice spice level! And not just spicy to be hot- it had actual flavor! And the portion sizes were great! The total for the above plus a soda and a masala chai drink was about $114. That includes an 18% tip (not automatic), and the 6% restaurant surcharge. I hate the surcharge but would go back.
My husband and I really enjoyed the dinner tonight ! Excellent service and the food quality was outstanding We will definitely come back when we visit Ventura again
We got a lot of complimentary items and at the end they requested we write a review.. I would have regardless. All items were delicious. Partner and I split the chicken tikka masala. Perfect for two. A little on the sweeter side that I'm used to but would order again. The garlic naan had a lot of garlic and we loved it. Complimentary chutney sampler. That was alright. Complimentary aloo tiki chaat. That was pretty good. Complimentary Kheer. It's my favorite desert and it was great! We left with a little coupon. The service was good. They checked on us a good amount. I sat on the patio since it was a beautiful day. We did not go inside. We will back!
Grabbed a quick lunch here and thought the vegan options were great! Nice decor and friendly service, will be back next time I'm in the area.
I absolutely love this place. They gave us complimentary tea with our meal and everything is always tasty
great family-owned restaurant! loved the service and how they pampered us with free appetizers and dessert. the chicken tikka masala and saag paneer included a good amount of protein which was nice. the saag paneer was a bit bland but it feels healthier which is a bonus? :) the chicken naan was a bit dry but it was a huge portion. overall would recommend for indian food in the area!
1 month ago
What a great find in downtown Ventura. The staff is definitely on point & attentive. There's both indoor and outdoor seating. The waiter brought out some sauces samples to try with a gluten cracker of sorts; the sauces were just incredible. We started with the vegetables Samosa, opted to share the chicken, tikka masala, some rice and naan. All was just delicious. The waiter brought out complementary rice, pudding, not really our thing and too full to eat it. Ambiance is casual. Will definitely rerun on our next trip down this way. In read more
2 months ago
The food is a 5! Flavorful, fresh, bright and overall half we stopped here for a late lunch. You have the choice to sit inside and outside. Lots of options to dine on this street and you will not be sorry with the quality of the food here. read more
8 days ago
In the heart of art walk district. Clean and authentic Indian restaurant. Plenty of seating inside and out. No wait time for us on a Saturday night and yet still crowded. Plenty of vegan options which is a massive bonus. It began with the complimentary papadum and three sauces-so good. Aloo tiki appetizer (Known as an Indian potato latke) was delicious with garbanzo beans and chutney sauce. Our vegetable coconut curry special dish was enough for both since it came with rice, dal, naan, and salad. Excellent meal. Very flavorful and satisfying. Excellent service as well. read more
12 days ago
Ok technically the best meal we had on our last trip to LA was not in LA, but it was on this trip and it was at this place. A high compliment because LA has a lot of delicious food but this meal really blew us away. I love dosas and have had dosas in a couple of different places but this one we got (masala dosa) was on the caliber of ones we have had and better than some. We also got a really delicious mango curry that I will think about for the rest of my life - it tasted like if you made a curry sauce out of mango lassi but savory and it was so good. They also had yummy rice pudding and an appetizer made of potatoes and garbanzo, but I forget the name. Great service and a place we absolutely would visit again. read more
3 days ago
6 months ago
I love the Taji cafe. Food is tasty, the service is always friendly and nice. My favorite is chicken Tikka masala, mango lassi, and sweet pishori naan. The portions are large, so you can easily share one dish. Considering the quantity, the price is reasonable. They give you free rice pudding for free as a dessert. No parking. When I come to this restaurant, I park my car in the public parking. read more
23 days ago
4 months ago
Every time I eat here, I am impressed. So many delicious entrees, appetizers and desserts! If this restaurant was closer I would come here more often. The staff is super friendly and comes to check on your group. Vibes are relaxing (especially with the music playing) and chill. read more
So I had been here before and I enjoyed the food. My husband and I decided to come New Year's Day and gather with friends. So I called at least 1.5 hours before getting there and made a reservation! When we got there which was on time, they Didn't have a table for us! The hostess was RUDE! When it's their fault for not honoring our reservation! So he's like you have to wait, at least 20-30 mins! Excuse me! Whats the point of having a reservation then! Anyways they moved a couple to seat us! We had 7 adults and 1 kid! Food took over 45 mins! I had the samosa chat which I recommend and the chicken korma medium spice and also good! They took forever to bring the food, and someone else had the Korma and so they mixed it up though one was chicken And the other Lamb! Other people in the table had the combo, they were 2 sitting next to each other. So they get Garlic Naan part of the combo. Only of them got the garlic naan, so toward the end. We asked, hey we're missing the garlic naan for this meal. Their response was, it was mixed with the other person who has the combo. Anyways it wasn't much garlic naan so they brought one and made it sound like they brought one to replace that. Instead after I got home I realized they charged for their garlic bread they brought. Also the food portions are small for what they charge! They charge $3.99 for soda and $1.99 for refill for soda! What? Who does that? It's just SODA! Secret for that many reviews! They bribe people! After dinner, they bring you " free rice putting" and right after before brining the bill, they bring you QR code to rate them!! So check comes and they have 6% charge! RSC! So we ask what is this? Restaurant service charge! That's usually done in big cities such as LA which I have not seen! " to cover their employees" and! Hows that my problem! They had already charged 20% for service! Which was HORRIBLE! I should have made them take that out! Since I was not happy w their service for seating us late and for taking forever to get food ready and on top of it charging for unnecessary items! Before you dine here. Check everything and the 6% add on plus 20% Service charge! Plus over priced food! Won't return here read more
26 days ago
THE BEST INDIAN FOOD I HAVE TRIED! moving to ventura came with not a lot of options for indian food so we were blessed by being only 10 mins from this gem! everything is made with so much love and the flavor is insane! read more
8 days ago
8 months ago
This food was delicious. It was very empty when we got there but it was a weeknight so I wasn't too surprised. While we were there there were a few orders that came in for pick ups or DoorDash, and another couple that came in to eat. So we weren't the only ones that ate there on a random Thursday night which is a good sign. We ordered samosas appetizer, garlic chicken plate and mirchi (spicy) chicken plate. All food was good with a nice spice level! And not just spicy to be hot- it had actual flavor! And the portion sizes were great! The total for the above plus a soda and a masala chai drink was about $114. That includes an 18% tip (not automatic), and the 6% restaurant surcharge. I hate the surcharge but would go back. read more
5 months ago
My husband and I really enjoyed the dinner tonight ! Excellent service and the food quality was outstanding We will definitely come back when we visit Ventura again read more
We got a lot of complimentary items and at the end they requested we write a review.. I would have regardless. All items were delicious. Partner and I split the chicken tikka masala. Perfect for two. A little on the sweeter side that I'm used to but would order again. The garlic naan had a lot of garlic and we loved it. Complimentary chutney sampler. That was alright. Complimentary aloo tiki chaat. That was pretty good. Complimentary Kheer. It's my favorite desert and it was great! We left with a little coupon. The service was good. They checked on us a good amount. I sat on the patio since it was a beautiful day. We did not go inside. We will back! read more
2 months ago
3 months ago
3 months ago
I absolutely love this place. They gave us complimentary tea with our meal and everything is always tasty read more
great family-owned restaurant! loved the service and how they pampered us with free appetizers and dessert. the chicken tikka masala and saag paneer included a good amount of protein which was nice. the saag paneer was a bit bland but it feels healthier which is a bonus? :) the chicken naan was a bit dry but it was a huge portion. overall would recommend for indian food in the area! read more
Loveeee taj! A great option for a sit down in downtown Ventura. The food is great.. naan is top tier and love their green chutney sauce so much. Never had a bad dish. They always throw in freebies and complimentary items while dining in which is so sweet. Family owned and very local. The veggie combo is my go to. *note this isn't a fast dining experience so just an fyi read more
1 month ago
1 month ago
First time here and the service and food were amazing! Polite and friendly service that included complimentary dishes like naan and rice pudding. We also got a mango lassi, which was creamy and so flavorful. We will definitely be back for more, with many menu items on our bucket list! read more
9 months ago
A Comforting Go-To at Taj Cafe - A Ventura Favorite My family and I made another visit to Taj Cafe in Ventura, a place we go to so often the servers know us by now. With our third son on the way, we were looking for something comforting, familiar, and stress-free--and as always, Taj Cafe delivered. Food: I ordered the tikka masala lamb combo meal, and my wife went with our usual favorite, the butter chicken--our go-to dishes every time. Both were excellent. The lamb was tender and flavorful, coated in a rich tikka masala sauce that's perfectly spiced without being overwhelming. The butter chicken was creamy, comforting, and consistently delicious, which is why we keep coming back. The combo meal was filling and a great value. Experience: What makes Taj Cafe special for us is the consistency. The food is always fresh, hot, and satisfying, and the relaxed pace makes it an easy, enjoyable stop--especially on busy days. It feels familiar and comfortable every time we visit. Service: The staff is always friendly, welcoming, and attentive. Being regulars, it's nice walking into a place where you're recognized and treated like family. They make sure everything is just right and genuinely care about their customers. Overall: Taj Cafe in Ventura isn't just a restaurant for us--it's a trusted favorite. If you're looking for reliable, comforting Indian food with great service and a welcoming atmosphere, this place is hard to beat. Highly recommended. read more
8 months ago
Amazing amazing amazing!!!! The service here is exceptional the food is so flavorful. Only reason I came here was because my usual Indian restaurant was closed and I was really craving it. I'm definitely glad I came here. They provided me with complementary items to get a little taste of what they offer and let's just say this. I will most definitely be coming back here. Give this place a chance I promise you you will not be disappointed. read more
Phenomenal Indian food. My friend from India recommended this to me as this is his favorite authentic Indian restaurant in the area. We ordered a whole bunch of different dishes, and everything we got was exceptional. I would highly recommend the butter chicken, chicken vindaloo, saffron rice, and samosas. If you're in Ventura and looking for some good Indian food, The Taj Cafe is the way to go. We ordered takeout, but the location on Main Street and ambiance is ideal. read more
It's been quite a few years since I've been in the area during lunchtime. The lunch buffet is no longer offered. Instead, they have lunch specials that are amazing. Freshly grilled chicken and classic vegetable side dishes. Fresh baked garlic nann and all the sauces. Chai tea and ice water with lemon in a glass. I highly recommend the Taj Cafe for lunch. read more
10 months ago
This was my first time coming here and I had a great experience! The ambiance is nice and cozy. They have light music playing in the background. The servers are great. They are friendly, attentive, and accommodating of my disability and dietary food restrictions. They give you few yummy complimentary treats. I ordered the Lamb Tikka Masala combo. You can chose your spice level. The Lamb Tikka Masala was delicious and flavorful. It was a wonderful experience. read more
2 months ago
2 months ago
This was our 3rd time at the Taj Cafe and the food was excellent. We ordered 2 of their specials and were very pleased. The service is friendly and attentive. We look forward to our next time! read more
11 months ago
Hands down the best Indian food I have ever tried. I come here all the time but had never tried the Mirchi Chicken special combo. Wow, just wow. You can taste each spice in there. The garlic nan is so deliciously garlicky and it's cooked just right. From the chai to the cardomom saffron rice pudding. You won't ever be disappointed at this place. The servers are so kind and they always make you feel special. read more
2 months ago
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1 year ago
Was a mixed experience for sure but the food truly was great. Seating is definitely interesting as most tables seem better set for two tops and the one 4 top was under an open skylight and the white plates/ glass table cover was blinding. My friends got combo plates and the coconut fish special was especially incredible. read more
3 months ago
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More info about The Taj Cafe
574 E Main St
Ventura, CA 93001
Directions
(805) 652-1521
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http://thetajcafeventura.com
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Ask the Community - The Taj Cafe
Has the buffet come back?
We have started Lunch Specials now. Please ask for them when you come for lunch,
Will you resume/restart your lunch buffet now the COVID restrictions have been lifted since June 15th and many people have been immunized/vaccinated?
No more buffet
Does rice come with the food items or do u have to order separately?
The dinner specials come with rice, naan, vegetable curry and cucumber salad
Is there food halal?
I'm sorry, I looked up the term and I can't say yes or no. But I can say it was fresh not processed foods. Everything was made to order like a good Indian restaurant does. I did notice they only offered beef, lamb or chicken for their meats. I hope…
Taj have beautiful patio?
It's a big open space and yes it's nice. They don't have the buffet right now because of COVID but the food is still amazing!
Is Taj Café open?
We will be opening very soon, most probably within a week. Thanks a lot for your love and support.
Are you open for take out and/or dine in? If so, what are your hours?
We are doing some repairs in kitchen. We will be opening in a couple of weeks or so. Thanks a lot for your business and support.
Have you opened back, yet?
I don't think so. And with all the restaurant closures now it may be a while. Call and check but last I looked they were still closed.
Went there twice, but the place was closed. There's a sign on the door says, temporary closed because of plumbing problems. Are they opening back soon?
Hello Dear Patrons, Unfortunately we had a fire in restaurant and about a month ago both the owners met an accident requiring hospitalization. We are working our level best to…
Is the buffet also available on the weekends and how much is it per person?
Yes, the buffet is available I believe the buffet is around $14, but I'm not certain.
Is there a discounted price for children for buffet?
Hi, May be you can call and check out before going in.…
Hi, can you please label your vegan options? Only one is labeled, but you're listed as having vegan options so I hope that's not the only one. Thanks!
VEGAN options on the lunch buffet were clearly indicated on cards below each selection as of 3/10/19. Identifying descriptions offered in ( ).…
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426 reviews that are not currently recommended
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