When Columbus first landed at Plymouth Rock, he proudly rang the Liberty Bell to mark the successful discovery of India. Rectify his mistake and actually discover India with today's deal: for $15, you get $35 worth of Indian-American cuisine at Fusion Restaurant and Bar.

Nestled inside Petworth, this neighborhood gem houses an atmosphere swirling with pleasantries and pixie dust. Diners say the ambience and cuisine quality are reminiscent of downtown or Chinatown, only with more reasonable pricing and less bustle and dragon attacks. Attentive servers promptly deliver well-portioned plates like devastating rhymes in a rap battle. Menu options lean toward the Indian side of the edible fence with an infusion of American flair in their preparation.

Starters such as the crispy spinach salad with cumin, tomato, and yogurt ($7) or masala crab ($9) rev hungry engines for the main race. Entrees are between $15 and $20 and include the savory chicken vindaloo with potatoes, red chili flakes, and fresh herbs, and the well-seasoned Chilean sea bass. An extensive list of vegetarian options provides satisfying feasts for herbivores and herbivoyeurs. Dive into the vegetable moilee with seasonal veggies, ginger, and coconut milk ($12/full, $6/half) or channa masala with garbanzo beans, garam masala, and garlic ($11/full, $6/half), among others. Accompany the meal with classic Indian breads (kulcha, paratha, or naan) and cap it off with a dessert ($7) such as mango mousse or strawberry tiramisu.

Reviews

Yelpers give Fusion Restaurant four stars, 94% of Urbanspooners like it, and the Washington D.C. DiningGuide readers give it four smiley faces:

• This place serves the best Indian food in the city. – G.E., Yelp
• Unquestionably some of the best food I've had in Washington, DC. The veggie options were plentiful and savory...Unbelievable texture and flavor. The service was also exemplary. – Jason McCool, Urbanspoon