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	Maharaja Indian Cuisine By James Faine of C-Ville
	Maharaja Indian Cuisine 29 North next to Gold’s Gym. For all those not familiar with my reviews, I use a “Star” based rating system with 1 being “Just Plain Bad” and 5 being “Not To Be Missed”. Maharaja is a Charlottesville dining experience that is quite easy to overlook as it is in a very unassuming strip mall near and military recruiter and a gym!  I have found that many of my favorite restaurants have similar settings and I forgive the modest appearance for and emphasis on the food within. Once you get past the dreary exterior things pick up a bit.  The site has a large outdoor patio that is comfortable and shaded complete with a small fence to keep children in and passersby out.  Inside the doors you are greeted with an oddly shaped room with a nice carved bar taking up the left-hand wall and the dinning area opening into a kidney shape to your left.  Prompt attention from the hostess and a friendly wave from the bartender have always greeted me even during peak hours. The site has about a fifty fifty selection of booths or tables complete with red checkered plastic tablecloths.  Crystal and silverware are middling quality at best, and many of the wall decorations and table show their years of use. It is not until you open up the menu that you begin to think that this might be something out of the ordinary.  They have one of the most complete selections of regional favorites that I have found in central VA.  Rather new to Indian cuisine or a native of India you will find something to make you mouth water. Orders are taken promptly and courteously.  Soups and appetizers are delivered in good time to your meals, with your entrée arriving at the end or after your appetizer.  Refills and requests are prompt and efficient, and should you chose to partake you will find the bar well stocked.  For those wishing softer beverages you will find a wide selection including the homemade Mango Lasse, a frozen treat similar to a smoothie that is not to be missed. But on to the food.  The presentation is sufficient and the portions themselves are splendid.  The food is well cooked and served in a timely manner using traditional Indian recipes and spices.  I have never been disappointed with the taste or preparation of any of my meals. A word of caution though.  These are authentic ethnic recipes!  If you are sensitive to spices, you may wish your server to ask the chef to tone down the heat if you are not familiar with Indian food. I heartily recommend the Matyr Paneer, the Vegetable Pakora, the Chicken Tikka Masala, and the Rogan Josh.  There is also a Sunday Buffet that is great for Indian Food fans or those looking to introduce themselves to the style. In closing, while the ambiance and setting leave something to be desired the food, selection, service, and value make the Maharaja my pick for C-ville’s best Indian cuisine. **** Four Stars.
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