Page 39 - 02_March-2025

Best
Indian
2.
Junoon Lounge
The great thing about Edmonton’s
burgeoning Indian scene is that it’s no
longer burgeoning — it’s in a full-on
boom. And that includes Junoon Lounge’s
unapologetically modern atmosphere and
alluring ambience.
There are crispy, puffy delights
(Golgappa Shots), and signature cocktails
(Love, Gin & Dhokha). But I’m craving
something filling, so I pair Chicken Tikka
Masala (spicy, but well within a white
westerner’s range) with Fish Pakora.
And it’s on this night that I discover the
only thing better than cheese-stuffed
naan bread… is forgetting you ordered
cheese-stuffed naan bread. Was my
foul-mouthed first-bite reaction a bit
loud for this quiet and classy lounge?
Probably, but the server gives an under-
standing nod, which only makes me like
the place more. – C.S.
16430 ELLERSLIE RD. SW
587-524-3443
JUNOONLOUNGE.CA
PHOTO COOPER & O’HARA
3.
1. Suvai Dosa’s
Khazana
It’s been a few years since Khazana has cracked our
Best Indian category — but that’s much more a sign of
Edmonton’s robust Indian food scene than a slight against
the 27-year-old Indian institution, which is back on top this
year (with north and south-side locations to boot).
From the beginning, the downtown location raised the
standard for any restaurant looking to set a distinct
mood, and that mood is ornate and opulent, welcoming
and warm.
Samosas, pakoras, and plenty of masala and paneer —
other Indian restaurants do these very well, but none do
it better than Khazana (and its Hydrabadi Biryani, with
chicken, could actually be the best in the city). Due to
extremely stiff competition, Khazana may not always
be on the list, but it will always fulfill its namesake as an
Edmonton treasure. – C.S.
10177 107 ST. NW | 780-702-0330
5592 WINDERMERE BLVD. | 780-328-0088
184 MISTATIM RD. NW | 587-460-2233
KHAZANARESTAURANT.CA
A high-end atmosphere can really
elevate an eating experience, including
our Best Restaurants event (April 7). But
sometimes you want great food from a
place that feels like a family kitchen, and
our favourite kitchen-style Indian restau-
rant is Suvai Dosa’s (as well as its Pure
Vegetarian location).
The first time I tried it a few years ago,
I ordered takeout, and I felt bad. Not
because of the food, but because of the
look the server gave me that seemed to
say, “You just got here, why not stay a
while and enjoy?”
Idly and Vada are my every-order dish,
all the dosas delight, and the Schezwan
Sizzler Chicken will electrify your
tastebuds. It’ll still taste great if you bring
it home, but try to stay a while to take in
the full Suvai Dosa’s experience. – C.S.
445 PARSONS RD. SW
780-463-7228
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