Mumtaz, Cuisine of India is a pleasantly appointed Indian restaurant on smart and lively Melrose Avenue that has a lot going for it. Although the facade is somewhat rustic it is easy to spot on the street. Inside it's comfortable, and unlike many Indian restaurants, not over decorated.
The booths lining each wall are comfortable, and even though it has a lengthy dining room, Rob, the smartly dressed waiter, greeted us almost immediately. Best of all, the Indian cuisine served was very good, freshly made and bountiful.
Rob, who hails from Bangladesh, introduced us to Muhammad, the owner chef and also told us that Mumtaz has been at the same location for twelve years. Due to construction parking is a little bit dicey right now on this part of Melrose but just around the corner of a neighboring mini mall is plenty of parking.
Mumtaz offers a more limited menu at lunchtime but there were still plenty of delicious appetizers and specialties. A favorite with Indians and Americans alike is the wonderful hot tandoor or clay oven cooked chicken. Seasoned nicely and skinned, yet served juicy and hot on a plate of sizzling onions, it was a winner.
Another gem from the very high temperature oven was the Keema Lamb of minced seasoned meat folded in Nan, Indian's famous bread. Even the plain Nan was also a winner. We had to try Sag Paneer, that spinach dish made with homemade India cheese and onions simmered together. It was a great side dish.
India's Kingfisher beer was our beverage and beer does go so well with well prepared Indian dishes and ours certainly was. This fine little restaurant is perfect for experiencing a complete Indian dining experience. Rob will be pleased to assist you in choices and for those who think all Indian food is too spicy, learn that it is not but truly is an extravagant melange of wonderful tastes and flavors.
Oh and if you are wondering about the name. Mumtaz was the favorite wife of Emperor Shah Iahan. He thought so much of her that he had the Taj Mahal built in her memory in 1631.
Mumtaz, Cuisine of India is at 7166 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles just a short block west of LaBrea Avenue. Thanks to an excellent reputation the restaurant does a tremendous take out business for both luncheon and dinners and delivers. They are open seven days a week, luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; dinners from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. On the drawing board is an outdoor patio dining area. E Mail mumtazcuisine.com or call 323 933-2945.
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