Saipan Tribune

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Friday, September 21, 2012

Taste of India moves to a new site in Garapan

Taste of India, the only authentic Indian restaurant in the CNMI, has moved to a new and more central location on island.

Previously located along Middle Road next to IT&E, Taste of India is now across Jonny's Bar and Godfather's Bar in Garapan.

The move to a downtown location was officially completed last weekend, said restaurant manager Aji Thomas Mandumpala.

Besides the convenient location, Taste of India also features a dining space large enough to accommodate up to 50 guests.

The restaurant's interior will be decorated soon with intricate kathakali designs depicting the rich cultural heritage of the South Asian country, while Bollywood songs and television shows and movies will be played.

“We're very excited about our new location, and a lot of our regular patrons have given us positive feedbacks about it,” he said. “Many locals still don't know about Taste of India or haven't tried our food but we hope to change that with our new location.”

Even with the change of setting, Mandumpala assures Taste of India patrons the same quality and pocket-friendly prices. He said that the restaurant's owner, which took over management last year, wants to maintain reasonably priced items in their menus.

In fact, Taste of India's weekday lunch buffet is a dollar cheaper at the new location for only $9.95 per person, which includes unlimited iced tea. Dinner buffet is available on Saturdays at $11.95 per person, inclusive of one beer or glass of wine. Vegetarian buffet is also available during lunch from Monday to Friday and dinner on Saturday for $2 less the regular buffet price.

“All over the world, Indian food is expensive because of the ingredients used to prepare them. On Saipan where prices have all gone up and the economy is down, Taste of India continues to offer Indian food that's affordable,” said Mandumpala.

Taste of India is also currently working on introducing more items to their menu like kebabs, tandoori, and even fruity milkshakes to give diners a wider selection.

Taste of India also offers Happy Hour every day from 5pm to 7pm, during which beers are only $3.50 and cocktail drinks cost $5.

The restaurant hosts parties for all occasions, offers food delivery for a minimal fee, and provides pick-up and drop-off services to customers staying at hotels. Major credit cards accepted. For reservations or more information, call 233-8448.