Be A Dal, Why Don't Ya

Photo Courtesy of The Oxford Student

Just recently taking over a space near USC, Manas Indian Cuisine has brought college dining to another level. Don't be fooled by the modest decor, this place packs a punch when it comes to flavor. Plus, with a Bollywood movie playing on the large flat screen in the back of the restaurant, you not only get a great meal but an education in how to dance, sing, and avoid an arranged marriage all without wrinkling your sari.

Although many Americans worship the Whopper more than the big guy upstairs, Hindus have a deeper devotion for the cow. So I was quite amused by one of the first items on the menu: Premium Chilly Cheese Burger ($4.50). Nothing like poking fun at yourselves, as this creative concoction only implies beef (the patties are made of cottage cheese and chickpeas). The presentation was fantastic, taking a page out of Grillmaster Magazine. Right from the start I was very impressed.


I then moved on to the Lamb Vindaloo ($9.95) and the Chicken Tikka Masala ($8.95). Both were truly wonderful. The meat was tender and tasted as if a lot of care had been put into the preparation. The sauces were rich without tasting heavy. The flavors were complex but stayed true to how Indian food should taste.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Lamb Vindaloo

This place wasn't a total home run, but the faults I had with the restaurant are not enough to keep me away. One downside was that the water was bad - even with lemon (so order a soda). I also was persuaded to order a Mango drink that was the house specialty, but was far from special and a little too sweet for my taste. And, I ordered Aloo Paratha ($3.50), which was a potato stuffed flat bread, but was lacking any flavor. However, it was good to soak up the lovely sauces.

This restaurant is incredibly reasonable for the quality of food. Unless you are from USC, you might not be inclined to make it down to this part of Los Angeles, but let Manas be the reason for your venture. Plus, if you're feeling like making an evening out of it, try to coordinate your dinner with a Vidushak show, the only all-Indian improv troupe at USC and quite a sweet treat after a delicious meal.

Manas Indian Cuisine
2823 S. Vermont Ave.
Los Angeles, 90007
(323) 731-4333
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