Perhaps Best-Known for Lunch Buffet, but Neelam Does Dinner Well Too

Family-owned Neelam Exotic Indian Cuisine is a North Indian restaurant with ethnic décor and music. The aroma of curry and other Indian spices hits you before even walking through the door of this South Orange Avenue spot. It’s been serving the community for nearly 30 years.

The menu offers something for everyone, with a range of mild, medium and spicy items. There's an entire page of Tandoor clay oven-baked plates; several more full of soups, salads, appetizers and entrees—vegetarian, seafood, chicken and lamb specialties cooked in a variety of coconut, curry or other spiced sauces. There are (excellent) traditional Indian ice creams and teas to top it all off. And there's also a page of daily specials.

Meals are reasonably priced, with entrees ranging from $8.95 to $16.95 for single plates and $16.95 to $38.95 for combination platters that can serve individuals or a pair. The lunch buffet is a bargain: for just $7.95, it includes a full salad bar, paan, appetizer, rice, soup, and five dishes. The dishes vary everyday. It’s popular among students, keeping the place packed during mid-week lunch hours.

As a first-timer trying Indian food, my mom had no idea what she was piling onto her plate. The owner was helpful, walking the line with her and explaining each dish as she scooped it up. He was sure to warn her when she came to something spicy. The buffet was a great option for her, as she got to try a variety of dishes.

The buffet is popular among high school students and professionals alike, so crowds are common during the lunch rush. Keep in mind, the food is much fresher towards the beginning of the lunch hour. It starts at 11 a.m. To enjoy a quieter atmosphere, head in towards the end of the buffet—it ends at 2:30 p.m.—or stop by for an early dinner. The two-room restaurant starts to fill up around 7 p.m.

My sister, aunt and I enjoyed a quiet dinner Friday evening, barely beating the rush. Our server was talkative, keeping my aunt company while she waited for us to arrive. When it came time to order, he helped us decide and asked how spicy we preferred our meals. He even managed to convince me to branch out from my favorite Aloo Ghobi and try the daily special, a blend of soft vegetables cooked in a fabulous blend of spices.

Everything we had was well prepared. The spices—we all ordered medium—were not overpowering, but added the perfect amount of flavor. I personally recommend the Shrimp Do Piazza, with large shrimp served in a blend of peppers, onions, tomatoes and spices. Order it with a side of garlic naan, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory sauces.  The Kulfi—traditional Indian ice cream flavored with pistachio and rosewater—was slightly crunchy. It was certainly different from the ice cream we are used to, but the slightly crunchy, vanilla-like treat is a fantastic way to end the meal.