If you are in search of exotic spices, foreign flavors and an intensely aromatic atmosphere, Saffron Indian Restaurant would be an excellent choice for your dinnertime destination.
The Far East dining experience is not really that far at all, it's hidden away in a small shopping plaza on the corner of Pine Ridge Road and Yahl Street in Naples.
It nearly takes a guide to get you there because it's not visible from the main road. You will need to know where you are going or you might miss it. (Hint: look behind the huge Hess Gas Station).
Once you have found Saffron Indian Restaurant, you will be very glad you stuck it out. The food is terrific and the menu extensive.
From the Tandoori list to the lamb and chicken choices, there are plenty of unpronounceable words and meanings that you might need assistance for if you are not familiar with Indian cuisine.
That will not be a problem. The staff is eager to assist you with your choices and take the time to answer your questions while describing each selection all in layman's terms if necessary.
To accompany your main meal you will have your choice of regular salad or the Mulligatawny Soup. The recommendation here is to go for the soup and leave the salad for another time, another place. You are in an Indian Restaurant, go for the whole experience, you will be glad you did.
The soup is thick with flavor and feels velvety to the palate, and the lemon garnish provides a zesty zing. The soup really prepares your taste buds for what's to come next.
The Chicken Tikka Masala, $14.95, is both visually appealing and tasteful, but modest in portion although the entire meal as a whole will leave you full and surprised at how little you really knew about Indian cuisine, even for the not-so-novice Indian diner. Cumin, curry and coriander are just a small representation of the spices used in the preparations of the meals.
If you are not sure exactly what you should order because you are new to Indian cooking even after all the explanations, try the Mixed Appetizer $14.95. This appetizer feeds four people and contains a wonderful sampling of the tasty selections of Indian spices. You will get an array of vegetables and meats that all have their own unique flavor that provide you with a good idea of the tastes that are available. The price range for dinner begins at $14.95 and go up from there.
The Indian breads are made fresh for every order and are something that should be tried. Naan is the most widely known of Indian breads, but don't let familiarity stop you from venturing into the unknown flavors of Poori, Bhatura or the Paneer Kulcha. All of the selections are worthy or your consideration and can be found at an average price of $3.95. Don't forget to ask for the mint chutney, $2.50, for dipping, it really will surprise you at how well they go together.
There is a nice selection of Indian beers and wines that will complement your meal. Ask your server for suggestions.
After your Treasures of Rice or your Vegetarian entree, try the alluring flavors of kheer (pudding) and Kulfi (ice cream) with a cup of hot chai, and don't forget the fennel seeds (complimentary) when your meal has been completed. The seeds freshen your breath and aid in a smooth digestion.
Outdoor dining is available and the attire is casual. Smoking is permitted outdoors and most major credit cards are excepted.
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