Moti Mahal, Royal Oak

For three generations, the Ullah family has been satisfying Midwestern palates with traditional Indian cuisine at Moti Mahal. That's because Chef Abdul, equipped with some 40 years of culinary experience, masters a menu of authentic Indian and Pakistani cuisine slathered in curries and sauces that range from mild to extra spicy.

The Tindaloo, for instance, blends the supreme heat of ghost peppers with the smooth richness of curried chicken, lamb, or shrimp laid stop a bed of rice to temper the spice. And guests savor these flavors among black leather chairs, rich burgundy hues, and gold accents that lend the dining room an air of relaxed elegance.