Jaipur Palace

If you live in South Austin, there’s a good chance you’ve already discovered Jaipur Palace—it has some of the best Indian food in the area. For everyone else, it’s worth a drive to Southpark Meadows for excellent renditions of classic North Indian dishes like dal makhani, chana masala, and butter chicken. This shopping-complex eatery might not look like much from its beige exterior, but the dining room is surprisingly regal, with lots of red velvet booths and gold curtains. Start with samosa chaat or gobi manchurian, then load up the table with more bowls of slow-stewed meats than you need—the leftovers taste even better the next day. Everything arrives at custom spice levels, and while the max wasn’t quite as hot as we’d like it to be, it still packs a small punch. Afterward, finish up with some sweet gulab jamun to round out the experience.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Richard Casteel

Amritsari Kulcha

The breads that arrive from the tandoor oven are hot, fluffy, and well-suited for soaking up spicy gravy. We really like this version that comes stuffed with onions, cheese, and potatoes because it adds another layer of texture and rich flavor to each bite.

photo credit: Richard Casteel

Butter Lamb

When we’re not trying to make a giant feast out of dinner but still want something satisfying and hearty, this is our go-to order. The lamb is savory and tender, and the sauce is spicy, creamy, and rich with butter. It’s also great with goat or chicken.

photo credit: Richard Casteel

Jaipur Mixed Grill

All the meats cooked in the tandoor oven are marinated and roasted until they’re tender on the inside, with some great charred edges. We like the mixed grill—it comes with a little bit of everything, and it arrives on a giant sizzling skillet that provides the same satisfaction of ordering fajitas at a Tex-Mex restaurant. Just be warned that this comes with more meat than any mortal being can eat, so prepare for lots of leftovers.