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Ambar India Restaurant
Categories: Restaurants Indian Restaurants Pakistani Indian, Pakistani [Edit]
350 Ludlow AveCincinnati, OH 45220
Neighborhood: Clifton
(513) 281-7000
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 11:30 am - 9 pm
Sun 12 pm - 9 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
88 reviews for Ambar India Restaurant
Review Highlights
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"Chicken tikka masala and everything else is awesome." In 7 reviews -
"The lamb saag paneer is always a bulls-eye hit." In 7 reviews -
"Your aloo choley, level 3, over basmati rice." In 4 reviews
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88 reviews in English
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Review from Ed J.
1/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is my favorite Indian restaurant in Cincinnati. I've been to others with buffets, places with more room (and less room) around the tables, take out only places, fancier, homier, and grubbier places. I come back here because the food is consistently great. I'm not a knowledgeable person about authentic Indian cuisine - I've never been to India, and I've never had Indian food cooked by someone who could tell me a story about why the family chose these spices in this amount for their garam masala. I'm pretty sure that the level of heat inherent in the everyday food would be far more than I could currently take.
I do know what I like though, and Ambar serves it up every time. Saag paneer, chicken tikka, lamb curry, lamb rogan josh, tandoori chicken, and that fantastic basmati rice heaped up - that's what I like. Top off your meal with a piece of garlic naan and a frosty glass of mango juice and you've just improved your life by an order of magnitude at least.
I frequently go to other Indian places in town, and will continue to do so. But I'll always come back here. -
Review from Jeremy B.
5/21/2012
I went to Ambar after a massive hangover one day, and I was in for a much-needed fill up. I got their famous buffet and got lots of delicious options that satisfied my upset stomach. I couldn't tell you any specific dishes, they had mostly traditional offerings and all were delicious.
The service was very friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was very relaxed and quiet and served as the perfect venue for my hangover recovery. Had we gone at a busier time, the food might have been fresher, and that's why I don't give 5 stars, but they didn't make us go at 3, we did... -
Review from Mattan R.
Cincinnati, OH
4/20/2012
I don't know why this place is so popular. Perhaps because people haven't experienced Indian food away from the UC campus. I've been here three times and each time the dishes was less than mediocre. The sauces for completely different types of dishes were basically the same. All were way too heavy on the cream. You couldn't distinguish flavors very easily for the dishes either. Cream does make for good taste, but good indian food has so much more flavor that is not present in the food at Ambar. The naan was mediocre.
My recommendations for Indian food in Cincy are 1) Bombay Brazier, 2) Brij Mahon and 3) Dusmesh (if you're trying to stay near UC) -
Review from Bill E.
4/20/2012 1 Check-in Here
Can't believe I have never reviewed one of my favorite Indian restaurants. Ambar is on Ludlow and it has a very deep following of regulars. Some out of towners claim that "The best Indian cuisine is on Ludlow in Clifton" I happen to agree for now.
I have been to Ambar maybe a dozen times and I love going there and getting my usual Chicken TikiMalsa with a spice level of 4 and of course some naan. The tiki has a good buttery onion flavor and the extra sauce goes perfect with the rice.
I can say I have never had dessert here, it's nothing against the restaurant it's just Graeters is right down the street.
Service has always been good here. -
Review from Jesse M.
Cincinnati, OH
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
My wife and I recently had a night out without the kiddies, so we decided to try Ambar. I've been craving good Indian food since, well, I'd last been in NYC for work. I'd recently stopped by their neighbor (Amol) for pickup, and decided that was only for pickup (I won't review it here -- let's just say I wasn't impressed with the ambiance).
Many reviewers have commented on the lack of atmosphere at Ambar (tight quarters, overall dated look). I totally agree. The tables are darned near together, so they might as well call it family style seating, and by family, I mean you are all sitting as a family... Ok, so it's not that bad, for all seats, just in the middle. Reminds me of the Precinct's seating -- don't plan on keeping your master plan to takeover the universe or your story about your latest weekend indiscretion go unnoticed by your neighbors.
That said, the service and food were excellent. Loved the Chicken Tikka Masala, at level 4. It was a little creamer than I'd prefer, but still very yummy. My wife had the Lamb Biryani, level 4. We like our dishes spicy, and this was a bit overpowering, so I'd recommend backing it off a to a 3. We also had the Aloo Nan (stuffed with spiced potatoes) -- very fresh and light. Loved all the dishes. And the jasmine rice was prepared perfectly (light, fluffy, well seasoned).
This is a good spot for casual Indian, where you are looking for good food and don't mind some noise / lack of space. There were plenty of kids when we were there as well, so I'd be comfortable with taking the kids and letting them add to the cacophony of sounds. -
Review from Stacey L.
3/6/2012
I know everyone else in the world thinks this is the height of Indian food in Clifton and I can't disagree more!
Yes, the food is just as good as all the other Indian food in Clifton. It feels slightly more expensive with slightly smaller portion sizes. Their Navratan Korma and naan is good.
But, I HATE the atmosphere. The tables are packed together so you can't help but hear the conversation of those around you. There is always a wait during dinner hours and the only place to stand is in the doorway standing over other people. Service is quick, but not particularly friendly.
There are so many other Indian option in Clifton. Branch out and try another! -
Review from nina a.
Fairfield, OH
1/31/2012
this is my favorite indian restaurant in the city!
not just because this place is very special to me ( coz this is where my bf took me out on our first date, andthen on our first year anniversary!) , the Matu special is one appetizer to die for. Our favorites are Chicken tikka Saag and Chicken vindaloo. OMG! WILL MAKE YOU forget your name and where your from (LOL). yes it is that good! the place is very cozy and service is fast. -
Review from Daniel R.
Kent, OH
4/13/2012
What a great meal! Started off with the Mattu Special - "Boneless chicken tandoori tossed with lightly spiced onions stuffed in a pastry shell deep fried" and then had the Chicken Biryani for the main course. We were asked how spicy we wanted it on a scale of 1-6. We went with a 4 and am glad we did not venture further up the scale. It was delicious and just enough fire to warrant finishing the meal with Mango Lassi. Our water glasses never got empty and the service was overall excellent.
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Review from Missy L.
10/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
MmmAmbar...why didn't you come into my life sooner?! Since moving back to Cincinnati from Chicago I have been on an epic journey to find the best Indian food this city has to offer. My quest finally ended at Clifton's Ambar India Restaurant.
Admittedly I pretty much ALWAYS get the same thing at Indian restaurants. I just have never found anything more delicious to me than chicken tikka masala. Perhaps it's the delicious tomato butter sauce...I really don't know but I could eat it for virtually every meal.
Ambar has some of the best chicken tikka masala I've ever had the pleasure of consuming. The chicken is so tender it melts in your mouth and the sauce is rich and creamy with just the right amount of spice (they use the 1-6 spicy scale so you can tailor it to your liking).
As you might imagine something this delicious draws quite the crowd. During peak hours you are most likely going to wait (or end up getting your meal to go). The restaurant is pretty intimate so it can start to feel a bit claustrophobic when it's really busy. I usually try and go during off hours to avoid the crowd.
However, crowd or not I would eat here pretty much any day! If you like Indian food (or haven't tried it and want to start with some of the best) Ambar India is a superb choice! -
Review from Emily U.
6/6/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The vegetable malai kofta has crack in it. Or some other highly addictive substance. I make excuses to drive two hours from Indianapolis to eat this dish at Ambar India. The other assortment of entrees I've tried have also been excellent, but the malai kofta is something beyond. I would probably be embarrassed if I could step outside my body and watch myself windmilling the food at Ambar into my face. From inside, though, it's a transcendental event.
The bar, atmosphere and service are nothing to remark upon, but that's of limited concern when you're having a religious experience in your mouth. -
Review from Irish F.
Fort Mitchell, KY
1/22/2012
After a recent visit, Ambar still has good Indian food and a loyal following.
It is time to freshen up the place and maintain it, your foodies have served you well. -
Review from Ludwig T.
Cincinnati, OH
3/21/2012
I have always found Ambar to be a great place with consistent quality and good service. It can be a little crowded at times, but I usually get take out and avoid any seating problems. My favorite item on the menu is the chicken curry, and I would not hesitate to recommend it. One suggestion I have is to stop and pick up a Bearcash coupon book before you go because Ambar always has coupons in it and you can save a couple of dollars if you are ordering more than on entree. Bearcash coupons are also available online.
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Review from Adam B.
5/10/2011
Stopped in here for lunch with a friend at her recommendation. The restaurant is pretty basic. There is nothing about the decor that really jumps out at you. But, that is made up for by the food. I had some lamb curry and she had Aloo Choley, a dish with chickpeas and potatoes. Both were very good and well-spiced. We also split some aloo nan, a version of nan that is stuffed with spiced potatoes.
Overall, a really nice Indian restaurant and in a charming stretch of Cliffton. I would certainly go again. -
Review from Linsey G.
1/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
In the past year I've taken to Indian food and boy do I love it!
I'm partial to Baba India for its stellar buffet, but I prefer Ambar for when I intend on meeting friends for a nice, sit-down meal. Sure, the atmosphere and decor aren't top notch, but the ambiance is decent enough. The fare makes this place one that needs to be frequented. And as often as possible.
I've only ordered the Mater Paneer (my favorite Indian dish) as my entree, and I get it with a spice level of 3 out of 6; always spiced just right. I've also had a few other dishes and appetizers, all of which are fresh, hot and extremely savory.
Throw in some garlic nan to round out this delicious culinary ensemble, and you've got yourself the best Indian meal in the city. In my opinion, anyway. -
Review from Sarah B.
Cincinnati, OH
1/12/2011
I'll be honest, I haven't tried many other Indian restaurants in Cincinnati, so I can't compare it to other local Indian spots. But, I have tried Indian food in many other cities and cook it quite a bit at home, and Ambar has consistently been pretty darn good.
I love their onion naan, could eat that stuff all day long. The lassis are super tasty, as is the tea. I've had the curry, korma, vindaloo, dal, saag, mahkani, tikka masala, and do piaza. I've tried lamb, chicken, and vegetarian variations. I've never yet had a meal I didn't really love.
The lamb korma and curry are my personal favorites and the serving sizes are big enough to last me 2-3 meals. They also refill water glasses religiously.
As others have said, yes, the service can be kind of awkward but it's never been bad, the parking situation is goofy though, I've been dozens of times and have always found a spot, and the decor is strange (though, they painted recently) but we expect all of that and put up with it because the food is pretty darn good.
Ambar has become our go to spot, because we know and love the menu and, honestly, are afraid to branch out (bad Indian food can be really, really bad). -
Review from Trisha K.
3/24/2011
Best in Cincinnati. Periiiiooooiiiiooooiiiiod!! That's me singing in my Indian voice. Ok ok, just don't rate my singing. But trust me, you have to try this place!!
If you're looking for service with a smile, it's certainly not gonna happen here. BOOO! -
Review from Sambucus R.
King, WA
1/21/2012
Gosh Ambar is one of my favorite Indian joints. It's my go-to Cincinnati Indian place, especially after that whole shooting thing. That was crazy. The naan, the chana masala...why do I always write restaurant reviews on an empty stomach?!?!?
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Review from Dan M.
2/5/2011
Ohhhhh yeahhhh. I ate here last night with a buddy. Although I wouldn't consider myself an expert, I've had a fair amount of Indian food. This stuff is the stuff. MMMMMMM. I got the chicken tikka masala, and I think it was more like butter chicken, delicious nonetheless. This is much better than the place I'd been downtown. The prices might look a little high, but each dish is really enough for two meals. The naan wasn't as warm as it could have been, but the rest of the food makes up for it.
Bottom Line: I'll be back for the best Indian in Cincinnati. -
Review from Célèste B.
Cincinnati, OH
11/16/2010
I've had Indian food in London, Paris, Austin (albeit not in India yet, but it's on my bucket list), but this is the best I've ever had.
The prices are reasonable. Go for lunch and they'll be even better. Make sure not to park in the lot next door. You can only park in the lot behind Ambar, which is a bit cramped (at dinner rush, you may have to park on the street). This is one downside, the other is that the wait can be long at the rush and they aren't that well equipped to handle a rush (no buzzers, no good time estimates, nowhere to wait that isn't cramped and awkward).
All that being said, the food is so good that I would park on the street a mile away and wait an hour if I had to.
Order a salted lassi, papai chat, and the nav rattan korma, and thank me later. -
Review from Jesse F.
1/16/2011
Cincinnati, for some odd reason, has a great variety of Indian restaurants. Clifton is certainly the gold standard for such. (There's one pretty much every block, I kid you not.)
The people who own Ambar also have a location in Kentucky, and for good reason.
I judge Indian places by their Chicken Jalfrezi and Ambar does it right.
The place is usually packed, so I highly recommend coming a little early or a little late to get a table. -
Review from James H.
Cincinnati, OH
10/5/2010
While this may upset a lot of Ambar regulars, this is NOT the best Indian food in Cincinnati. I've dined there several times. One of my favorite Indian dishes is saag paneer, but each time I've had it at Ambar it resembles a quivering green gelatinous mess, not a bad flavor, and way too salty.
Don't go, head to Dusmesh instead. -
Review from Julie B.
11/8/2010
Years ago I would have given them more stars but after eating their for lunch (took my team) and after experiencing Dusmesh I had to lower my rating.
Their food is still very good - but the overall expeience lacks for me. From the nazi parking situation to the noise issue (can't hear anything) to the sometimes not so great service...Ambar just doesn't do it for me.
The dinners are still solid food wise but the lunch was horrible. The food was cold, late in getting to our table, our water actually went unfilled (hard to believe I know) and just was sub par.
If you want truly good Indian - head down the road to Dusmesh.Listed in: Good Eats
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Review from Meg S.
Cincinnati, OH
3/17/2011
As far as Indian food goes, I have to have a craving for it before I can make an argument for ingesting all of that carby-goodness and having my apartment smell like take-out for a week. But when I do feel the need for some Indian food, Ambar is the place I go.
I'm a Clifton resident, so there are plenty of Indian food offerings - it almost feels like there's one every other storefront - but none of them has veggie curry like Ambar. I am obsessed. Not only is the sauce flavorful and creamy, but it's not too oily, either. There are also some paneer cubes if you're lucky!
The naan ain't too shabby either - don't get the garlic unless you're prepared to down a bottle of Scope, but the dough is light, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up that last bit of sauce on the plate, which you'll want to do. Being a complete wimp, I get a 1 or a 3 (if I'm feeling daring).
The downs? You never know what's going to be in the veggie curry - paneer or no paneer? Is that broccoli? Are there peas this time? And it's not really that cheap if you're going to get naan, a drink, and an entree. It's almost always right on target for satisfying that craving, though, so it's worth it for that. It's really worth it if you get some paneer - so good! -
Review from Rj C.
Cincinnati, OH
6/28/2010
The best Indian cuisine in the city. Be sure to try the samosas with onion relish! The service is very good and your water will rarely go empty.. and if you get spice level 4 or above, you will need it!
My favorites: Chicken Tikka, Saag Paneer, Paneer Makhani
Don't park next door next to the grocery, they don't get along :) -
Review from Vincent B.
Liberty Township, OH
5/14/2008
Ambar India is awesome; the food is superb. My wife took me there for our first date ever... I was really nervous because I never had Indian food before and didn't want to make a crappy impression. Well, still ended up making a not-so-great-impression but for a different reason... I did more eating then talking. This is my absolute favorite Indian restaurant. The best dish in my opinion is Chicken Tikka Masala, followed closely by the Chicken Tikka Saag.
Only negatives are the restaurant is relatively small and can get crowded, you often have to wait for a short period of time to be seated. Tiny parking lot in back, be sure NOT to park next door (the feuding family members' business, or so I've heard) you will be quickly towed.
Lastly, I would love to try other Indian restaurants, but my wife has pledged loyalty to Ambar, so she doesn't let me go to other places...Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Isabel E.
Atlanta, GA
3/20/2009
My parents used to make us come here when I was in high school and I hated it then. But somewhere along the way I found Indian food that I enjoyed (I am not a big fan of spicy things), and came back during a college break to realize that yes, this IS the best place to have Indian food in Cincinnati. Chicken tikka masala and everything else is awesome. I never know what else to order-- I still rely on mom and dad to figure that stuff out. Parking sucks, yes, but carpool if you're coming with friends, and just deal with it to have a good night of hanging out and eating. Servers are really friendly and nice.
P.S. In my memory, this place used to be more dive-y, but last time I was there it was pretty nice actually! -
Review from Andrew C.
Nashville, TN
6/5/2008
BEST... INDIAN FOOD.... EVER.
Thats about all you need to know. If I had to choose one last meal on earth it would be the chicken curry at its peak spice level with their delish rice and naan from Ambar India.
The awesome thing is that they have opened a few locations outside of Clifton - Raja India in Mason, one in Hyde Park, and another random Indian name in northern kentucky. -
Review from Sam K.
Cincinnati, OH
12/1/2010
Completely overrated and overpriced. I live across the street so I thought this would be awesome when I heard the buzz. Their tikka masala seems like it's got too much tomato going on and their other appetizers are really kind of whatever.
You could spend a lot less money and have a better tasting meal by going to Deep India. Even better if you live on Ludlow and want to avoid a drive to Deep India, Deep India delivers. I'd make a call there or make the trip if I was feeling a craving for Indian food. -
Review from Alan R.
Nashville, TN
1/9/2008
Simply put the best Indian in Cincinnati. A lot of other reviews have touched on much about this place, so I won't go into too many details
I'm a huge fan of the chicken saag, and everything I've tried from saag paneer to tandoori chicken to good 'ole chicken curry is fantastic. I also love the naan- its so moist and yet fluffy.
I will also echo the sentiments to watch where you park. Parking is limited and if you go in the adjacent lot and head to the other Indian restaurant, you will be towed!
Great place to go for a casual lunch or dinner with great food. -
Review from Jessica K.
Cincinnati, OH
7/8/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I enjoy Indian food and have long heard of the "battle" of Indian restaurants in Clifton. I decided to start at the top with Ambar - the highest rated on Yelp for the Ludlow area. I live about a 15 minute walk from them, so the 15 minutes they said it would take for it to be ready for pick-up was perfect.
I ordered the Aloo Choley with a spice level of 5 (out of 6) and a side of plain naan. The spice level was spot on - I love a pretty decent kick but still want to taste the flavor of the food. I doubt I'll ever get a 6, but I'll never go below a 4. The naan was soft and surprisingly flavorful for having gotten the plain variety.
What was a pleasant surprise was the rice. I expected plain white basmati rice that I've gotten from other Pakistan and India cuisine. Akbar's basmati has peas, and bits of what looks like lemon rind (but I'm not sure exactly what it is); regardless of what the mysterious stuff actually is, it was great.
My only complaint is that the Aloo Choley had one piece of potato in the whole thing. I love the chick peas, don't get me wrong; however, they should work on distributing the rest of the ingredients in their batches.
I'll definitely be ordering from here again. -
Review from Elizabeth W.
Cincinnati, OH
7/11/2011
This is one of the most popular Indian places in Cincinnati. In the heart of Clifton, this place is popular with students and Clifton neighbors alike. Unfortunately, all of these people get crammed into this cozy interior during the dinner rush. The staff, well aware of the masses waiting for tables, feels rushed and less than accommodating. The food comes out quickly, with the bill quickly following. They have a liquor license and offer American and Indian beers. I'll go here without argument, but probably won't make the suggestion. Great for quick take out though. Do have a small lot in the back, which is almost always full.
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Review from Jenny A.
Chicago, IL
7/24/2007
Ambar is my favorite Indian place in Cincinnati. The saag paneer is just flawless, and I'm a huge fan of the garlic naan. It's also a really great place to take a friend who's not used to Indian food - they ask you how spicy you'd like each dish, so beginners can order a 1 or 2.
Be careful about parking in the wrong lot! The Ambar lot is actually across the street...the one directly next door is for another restaurant, and they WILL tow your car! -
Review from Will S.
Cincinnati, OH
1/16/2009
Ambar has a little bit of everything:
The creepy guy that watches you park in the back lot (and then follows you to make sure that you're eating at his restaurant) -
Servers, usually oblivious to your wants and needs -
And most important, damn good food. And authentic too. They are doing something right because there are 2 other Indian establishments within a stone's throw from the joint and they are the only one consistently packed, line out the door.
The dishes at Ambar leave an indescribable imprint on your palate. Flavors that you rarely taste at other mainstream restaurants. Try the fiery red Tandoori chicken (boneless) for a light Indian style sizzling fajita dinner. Don't forget the yogurt sauce. For something a bit more hearty, the Chicken Tikka Masala (red sauce) or the Tikka Saag (spinach cream).
But a good Indian restaurant really comes down to the simplest of ingredients: rice. The Ambar rice is the best around. Fluffy, speckled with peas, and lightly buttered - I often eat it alone. -
Review from Stefanie P.
Chicago, IL
5/27/2009
Dear Ambar,
I moved to Chicago three years ago, and my longing for your delicious delights has not faded in the least. I miss your chicken tikka saag (which, by the way, does not exist in the windy city) and its spinachy goodness. Your aloo choley, level 3, over basmati rice. Polished off with a delightful bowl of kheer.
I miss you so much Ambar. Baba too, since it was closer to my old apartment and had more parking. Please send some family member here to open a restaurant, because I am tired of disappointment.
With love,
Stefanie -
Review from dale d.
Cincinnati, OH
10/4/2008
The best Indian in town, and would probably compete for some of the best there is to offer in the U.S.A.. I've been to some of the largest cities, and have eaten at the best of what those cities have to offer, and it just does not compare to Ambar.
My faves: Saag, Chicken Tikka, Lamb Saag. -
Review from Alex S.
7/2/2010 1 Check-in Here
I had never actually eaten Indian food before coming to Cincinnati. I'm not sure why - my family just wasn't into it, and so, neither was I.
Damn, was I missing out.
I moved to the neighborhood of Clifton where we have three Indian restaurant on the same block and more down the street. I have basically tried them all now, and Ambar is by far my favorite.
It's just a pleasant restaurant to be in. The room is larger and seems to always have seating, even though people are constantly eating. They're also great at dealing with large crowds. My friends and I came in after a roller derby game once, 10 of us, and they sat us know problem. That was impressive.
The food is awesome and cheap. They have a long menu full of items that I try and love and things I can't wait to get back and munch on. If I could try everything on the menu at least once, I'd be a happy man.
My recommendation: Garlic na'an. Mmm.
They've also got a nice private lot behind their building. Not that it's difficult at all to park
My only thing wrong is they weaken their spice. They asked out of 10 how hot you want it, and when I said a 7, I got about a 3. You really have to tell them: 7 - and I mean, it. Hot, or it's not coming that way.
Looking for Indian? Here's my pick. Enjoy! -
Review from Karan M.
Cincinnati, OH
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Even though I'm a fan of Ambar's major competitor Amol, I still do enjoy Ambar from time to time. The food is a bit pricier, however the superior flavor and variety are worth it. Serving sizes are also on the bigger side which makes it all worth it. Be sure to try out the chaat appetizer as it is a major reason why I keep coming back.
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Review from Anpan W.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 1/30/2011
Best Indian food that you will find anywhere. Since leaving Cincinnati, no other Indian restaurant has compared favorably to Ambar. Everything is good. I really miss the chicken korma and all of the saags.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/21/2010
Delicious food, great wine and beer list for its size, but pushy service. Food and wine make it… Read more »
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Review from Zack F.
2/7/2009
I decided to give this place a try based almost entirely off the rave reviews here. Overall, my impression was good food at a good price.
One thing to note is that in this location, parking is in high demand. Be very careful where you park as the business owners are eager to tow those people who do not respect the posted signs. Ambar's primary parking is in the rear of the building. You have to drive into the narrow space to the right of the restaurant as it is one way. Maneuvering in the parking lot is a challenge to say the least unless you have a smaller vehicle. Parking is limited and if the place is full, don't expect to find an open spot. They do have a spillover parking location that is posted only inside the restaurant. The signs indicate that this parking is located in the Clifton business lot at Howell Avenue. It is free and the walk is a short one.
The place is small to be sure which lends itself to the boisterous and bustling crowds. Our wait was not that long which is a good thing considering the meager space allotted to that task. We managed to score a couple seats at the "bar" and share a Taj while waiting.
I will take a moment here to describe the decor. It isn't the worst decor I have ever seen in a restaurant but it would certainly make the honorable mention. Seriously though, this is not a place that inspires you to dress up for a classy night out with a fancy dinner. The attire of the patrons reflects this as it is decidedly casual. That being said, if you walk in in a suit, I doubt you would get any languishing glances of disapproval.
The wait staff. How should I say this, it is not great. They seem rather clueless or oblivious, and less than helpful. However, having said this, we were attended quickly after being seated and everything we ordered arrived as requested and without undue waiting.
The food was quite good. It wasn't the best Indian food I have had, but it was well above the worst and even above average in my opinion. They have a great vegetarian selection so I went with the vegetarian appetizer sampler platter and the vegetarian thali dinner sampler. Something to note, the thali came with poppadam and a breaded mashed potato appetizer. We had already ordered both and since the portions were generous, we were close to gorging so we saved these for later. The point being, if you order the thali, go light on the appetizers unless you have a large table.
The fried cheese appetizer was good but a little bland. The potato cake was good. The samosa was better than many I have had. The pakoras, which I don't always like were surprisingly tasty. We received 3 vegetable pakoras, 1 samosa, 2 paneer pakoras, 2 aloo tikki.
The assortment of chutneys was delivered open air in containers that are used at each table. This was a major turn off for me. After overcoming my concern about this issue, I tasted the corriander which is always my favorite. The consistency was globby and thick. This is not my preference but the taste was good and a nice bit of hot on the finish. The tamarind chutney did not delight.
The naan bread was very good and that is one of it not the most important things to me. The thali portions were generous, the rice was well oiled and seasoned, and the food overall was very good. I ordered mine spicy, which it was and that added greatly to the enjoyable experience. The thali came with a single gulab jamun which is not my favorite, but it was as good as I have had it. As full as we were, there was no ordering dessert. I am eager to taste both their keer and their kulfi on a return visit.
The bottom line is that the food was good, the portions were generous and the prices were reasonable. The service, though lacking, was quick and accurate. I would definitely recommend carry out. This does not rank in my top ten all time Indian restaurants, but in the area it certainly warrants a return visit or two. The website's appearance and claims of fine cuisine and ultimate culinary experience as well as numerous cited accolades sets expectation a bit above what they were able to provide. -
Review from Sheila C.
8/13/2009
I LOVE their Chicken Curry and could probably live off of their rice for the rest of my life. This is easily the best Indian I've had in a long time. If you're in a hurry - check out Baba India (owned by the same people) for their lunch buffet.
Also love: Aloo Tikki, Bhatura, and Chicken Tikka Masala.
