If you can get into the slummy atmosphere--a handful of worn, orange formica banquettes clustered on a patio facing busy Venice Boulevard--this is some of the best Indian food in L.A. The line for hot food often winds through the store's aisles of imported cardamon pods, teas, and other Indian staples.
Generous-sized samosas are moist and spicy. Onion uttapam-- a sort of spicy fried pancake with cashews, tomatoes and onions in the batter--is addictive. Hearty and filling idly sambar (think Indian matzo ball soup) often boasts just-made idlies (the matzo ball part.) Don't forget a cup of sweet, authentic chai at the meal's end.
Pros: Cheap and delicious, Authentic Indian food, Hard-to-find spices
Cons: Scarce seating, Ugly patio/atmosphere
more