Garam Masala is traditionally a mix of Indian and Pakistani seasonings. In homage to its name, the restaurant incorporates authentic spice mixtures and halal meats into its menu, earning the distinction as Seattle’s best Indian restaurant in the Best of Citysearch 2011 competition. The kitchen staffers have held onto the traditional recipes of their homeland, abstaining from serving up Americanized versions of popular dishes. These Old World flavors surface in selections such as the lamb dopiaza, draped in 21 spices, and the roster of hot-to-buttery curries. A 2009 review in Seattle Weekly praises the chefs' devotion to custom by likening the eggplant bharta dish to "a baba ghanouj dressed up to hit the Emmys."