Andaaz Restaurant

Overview

Andaaz Restaurant redefines Indian fine dining in New Jersey with its innovative approach to subcontinental cuisine. Founded in 2018 by husband-wife duo Manan & Charu Saxena, this award-winning establishment bridges tradition and modernity, presenting classic Indian flavors through contemporary culinary techniques. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation, Andaaz offers a gastronomic journey across India's diverse regions, from the robust flavors of Old Delhi to the subtle spices of coastal Kerala, all while maintaining an elegant yet approachable dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to culinary storytelling and seasonal ingredients has made it a destination for both Indian food connoisseurs and adventurous diners alike.

Menu

Ambiance

Andaaz's sophisticated interior blends contemporary design with subtle Indian motifs, creating a warm, gallery-like space that celebrates both tradition and modernity. The dining room features custom artwork depicting Indian culinary heritage, soft lighting from handcrafted brass fixtures, and comfortable banquette seating. A semi-open kitchen allows glimpses of the chefs at work, while the private dining area offers an intimate setting for special occasions. The overall effect is an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere that complements the innovative cuisine.

• Chef's Counter – Premium seating with views of the open kitchen.
• Seasonal Decor – Rotating installations celebrating Indian festivals and harvests.
• Wine Wall – Showcasing ideal pairings for BYOB selections.
• Private Dining Room – Accommodates up to 20 guests with customizable menus.
• Art Gallery Corner – Featuring rotating exhibitions from Indian-American artists.

Cuisine

Executive Chef Charu Saxena's menu is a love letter to India's diverse culinary landscape, reimagined for the modern palate. The kitchen sources premium local ingredients while importing key spices directly from India. Signature techniques include 72-hour slow-cooked curries, house-made cheese, and tandoori preparations using a custom-built clay oven. The menu changes seasonally but maintains beloved classics, with each dish telling a story of regional Indian cuisine through contemporary presentation.

• modern street food : Deconstructed Chaat Trio, Mini Dosa Flight, Pani Puri Martini
• tandoor specials : Fig & Goat Cheese Seekh Kebab, Coffee-Rubbed Lamb Chops, Jackfruit Galouti
• regional signatures : Kerala Meen Moilee (coconut fish curry), Lucknowi Dum Biryani, Bengali Chingri Malai
• vegetarian showstoppers : Cashew & Saffron Kofta, Black Lentil Daulat Bagh, Jackfruit Biryani
• dessert innovations : Gulab Jamun Bread Pudding, Masala Chai Crème Brûlée, Saffron Panna Cotta

Chef Recommendations

• Hyderabadi Dum Ka Murgh – Slow-cooked chicken with 21 spices.
• Punjabi Sarson Ka Saag – Winter specialty with mustard greens and cornbread.
• Malabar Prawn Moilee – Coastal curry with coconut milk and curry leaves.

Must-Try Dishes

• Old Delhi Butter Chicken – The restaurant's signature dish featuring 48-hour marinated chicken in a velvety tomato gravy.
• Tandoori Octopus – A coastal-inspired preparation with kokum and coconut.
• Deconstructed Thali – Chef's selection of 8 miniature regional specialties.
• Spice Route Chocolate Fondant – Dark chocolate dessert infused with cardamom and served with chili ice cream.
• Seasonal Mango Lassi – Made with Alphonso mangoes flown in from India during summer.

Service

• description : Andaaz's service team combines warm Indian hospitality with polished fine-dining professionalism. Servers undergo extensive training on regional Indian cuisine and spice profiles, enabling them to guide guests through the menu knowledgeably. The staff excels at pacing multi-course meals and can suggest ideal BYOB pairings from their curated wine and beer recommendations list.
• style : Attentive yet unobtrusive, with special attention to first-time guests exploring Indian cuisine.

Why Visit Andaaz Restaurant?

• Culinary Innovation – Award-winning modern interpretations of Indian classics.
• Seasonal Tasting Menus – Chef's curated journeys through India's regional cuisines.
• BYOB Expertise – Comprehensive pairing guide for brought beverages.
• Chef's Table Experience – Interactive dining at the kitchen counter.
• Cultural Events – Monthly chef-led demonstrations and festival celebrations.

Tips for Visitors

• best time to visit : Weekday lunches for quieter dining; Saturday evenings for full menu experience.
• reservations : Essential for weekends and chef's counter (book 2 weeks in advance).
• dress code : Business casual to smart casual (collared shirts recommended).