By Pamela Holz
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The text message read: “Have you tried Tandoor? They have a killer lunch buffet for just $10.” I don’t need a second invitation when someone mentions the possibility of having some curry. I have been having this funny craving for curry lately… and had forgotten we have an Indian restaurant here in Clarksville.
Advertised as “The most romantic restaurant in Clarksville,” I had not realized that Tandoor serves a lunch buffet. Buffet and romance don’t automatically marry in my vocabulary, but the thought of curry overrode that bit of practicality. While I appreciate the use of such a vote to promote one’s restaurant, I found it more likely to defer people than to attract them, especially at lunch time. Who has time for a romantic… lunch buffet?
Entering into Tandoor does have the feeling of walking into another world. Upon entering the strip mall doors, I was met by two large wooden doors with small metal ring handles. Pulling on the handle opens the surprisingly lightweight door and I was greeted by a beaded curtain, separating the entry from the dimly lit dining area. There are curtained booths with low tables and cushioned platforms along one wall, and then plenty of tables and chairs for those people who prefer quicker access to the buffet.
The buffet held a beautiful variety of colors and tantalizing aromas. Our server invited us to help ourselves, and to let her know if we had any questions. Then the feast began: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes in a green salad. Lentil Soup. Lemon hummus. Hot mint sauce. A creamy cucumber/yogurt sauce called Rayta. Cabbage salad. Basmati Rice. Papadam (crispy lentil crackers). Tandoori Chicken (chicken marinated for hours in a paste of yogurt and spices, and then roasted (traditionally) in a clay oven called a tandoor). Chicken Pasanda (melt-in-your-mouth chicken in a creamy curry sauce seasoned with saffron). Eggplant Pakora. Naan (traditional Indian flat bread).
As I sampled each new item, I realized that I was more eager to try the different foods and flavors than I was to master the names of each. I was delighted to hear that the buffet changes daily. I guess that means I will have to go back for more. With all of the exotic aromas and flavors, I can better appreciate the vote for the romantic restaurant… I think I may have fallen in love with Indian food!
Tandoor Indian Bistro
Hampton Plaza
2868 Wilma Rudolph Blvd.
Clarksville TN
931-647-8200
Closed Mondays
Tuesday-Saturday 4:30- 9:00 p.m.
Sunday 4:30-8:00 p.m.
Lunch Buffett: Tues.-Sun. 11:00 a.m.-1:45 p.m.
www.tandoorclarksville.com
