Madras Cafe

Dried blossoms lean against crystal vases on white tablecloths; ornate chandeliers bathe the high-ceilinged hall in an amber glow; and scents of fenugreek, cumin, and other spices from northern and southern Indian recipes waft from Madras Cafe's kitchen. The cooking staff bakes tandoori chicken, lamb, and vegetables in an authentic clay tandoor oven, and trains vegetables to assume formations atop flavored basmati-rice platters in the biryani tradition. Chefs also prepare meals to halal standards, and craft additional culinary fusions with Desi Chinese dishes. The culinary crew can pair mains with an array of sides such as six varieties of fresh-baked naan and other breads, and serve desserts in brass, footed vessels for a more delicious finale than samosa-shaped fireworks. Chefs lay out a wider range of their creations at Sunday buffets, when heated chrome containers perched atop linen-draped tables hold steaming meats, seafood, and vegetarian stews.