An Indian Affair

Iravat, Plano . 240 Legacy Dr., Plano . (972) 517-8200

Before I entered Iravat, I was pissed at their audacity to use anything besides the usual "Taj" or "Curry House" as a name. Mainly because, being Indian, I had no freakin' idea what Iravat meant. However, upon entering, I became nostalgic from the aroma. The ambience was bistro-like but with more of a dinner flair. The tomato-based chutney was a great start as a condiment for the papads. I wasn't too find of the mind or tamarind chutneys.
We ordered four main dishes- ginger chicken, butter chicken, lamb vindaloo and malai kofta. Naan and rice came with the dishes. Each dish arrived on a chula (little tabletop cooker). After being served enormous portions in most restaurants, the tiny kadai on a tiny chula tickled me. But the food was well portioned nevertheless.
The malai kofta was without doubt my favourite. It had the right amount of crunch and texture, leaving no question of the rich nuts that go into cooking it. The butter chicken and lamb vindaloo were too whitewashed for my taste. The ginger chicken was a good addition, but I wasn't there to eat Indian-Chinese.
It's quite unusual for me to be one of the last two people eating; nevertheless, that is a clear indication I was pleased. The bill was split four ways- $15 including tax and tip for each. Slightly on the steeper side for the overall quality of food. So, best Indian meal out there? No. A decent first introduction to Indian food for your white friends? Yes.
Oh, and Iravat is the name of a mythological character from the Mahabharata (thanks Google).