Tandoori Bites

Tandoori Bites
1620 S College Rd
Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
(910) 794-4545
 
Man, I love this place. It's an old Wendy's that was later converted into a biker bar, then taken into its latest incarnation and you cannot tell it was ever either previous version. The decor is really something to see. Go check out their web site and it will give you a good idea. It's a really cool place to look at while you eat. And they have this big screen teevee behind the bar that plays Indian music videos that could be obnoxious, but just... isn't. It just lends to the atmosphere and is really fun.
 
We've been there a few times with friends, one of which is actually Indian, and she declared the food authentic, that some people think it's good and some don't, and that it's probably an acquired taste. We've obviously acquired it, because we think it rocks.
 
The assorted bread basket is outstanding, and I was glad we had four people there the night we ordered that, or they probably would have had to roll me out of the double-door service entrance in the back. As it was, I had to remind myself to share a couple of times.
 
I've had their chicken tikka masala, which was rich and spicy, but not over-the-top. Pootie has had the lamb jalfrazi and loved loved loved it. I would describe it, but I wasn't allowed a bite of it, so there you go. I've also had the butter chicken, which was so tender and good. Pootie has also been for their lunch buffet, and tried a little of everything. His considered opinion when asked for comment was "It's great. And it's cheap.".
 
The only minus at all was my decision to sample the after-dinner bowl of what looks like potpurri at the door as we left the first time. Our Indian friend said that was most definitely an acquired taste, and that one missed me. It tasted like old lady and licorice. Blegh. I chalk that up to my own lack of sophistication, however, and if you want to try it, by all means give it a whirl. If you don't spit it out in the parking lot, you're a better man than I am, Gunga Din.
 
But everything else is fantastic, prices are reasonable, they have a good beer and wine selection, and the atmosphere is just wonderful. By all means, get over there and give them a taste.