beXnlog

New New Samosa

Last night we decided to try New Samosa again. This all vegetarian Indian restaurant recently added an ice cream counter in the front and revamped their menu. When it first opened last year, we checked out the buffet and proclaimed it fine -- nothing excellent but nothing horrible either. be's coworkers (none of whom are vegetarian) went a few weeks ago with him, all got the buffet and loved it. be ordered two samosas and really liked them, so we went again to try the menu items.

Two things really make New Samosa stick out: 1) they have SOUTH Indian specialties like dosas and uttappam! and, 2) they use various soy proteins (fake meats) to create vegetarian versions of meaty dishes (ie: tandoori grilled meats, chicken tikka masala). The only other Indian restaurant i've ever seen use soy protein was Madras in New York.

Two other small things: 1) ice cream with mix-ins can be purchased in the front! We didn't confirm this, but it seemed that the ice cream was made in-house. At the very least the owner made all the cones herself. and, 2) they offer vegetarian chicken cheesesteaks, wraps and sandwiches. Basically think of an Indian restaurant with a Cold Stone and mini Govinda's Gourmet To Go up front.

The bottom line is: definitely order off the menu. The samosas we got were so freshly fried they were too hot to touch, but not oily or greasy at all. My dosa came with a deliciously spiced potato filling. (I'm glad there's a place even offering dosas at all in Philadelphia!) be ordered a mixed tandoori grilled meats plate, containing fake shrimp, fish, chicken and lamb. He really liked it except for the red peppers and onions. We're certainly going back to try more dishes.

posted by beXn @ 1:01 PM