Banjara Indian Cuisine

What is Banjara Indian Cuisine? Situated at 796 Bloor Street West directly across from Christie Pits Park on the edge of Dovercourt Village, Banjara has anchored the neighbourhood's South Asian dining scene since founding chef Raj Veerella opened its doors in the early 2000s. The sprawling interior is unpretentious and lively, featuring colourful drapery, multiple dining rooms, and a bright enclosed glass front patio. The room stays constantly humming with a dependable mix of neighbourhood regulars, families, and University of Toronto students.

Banjara Indian Cuisine Menu & What to Order The runaway favourite is the legendary butter chicken, made with tandoor-charred chicken tikka folded into a rich tomato gravy that pulls all of its natural sweetness from slow-cooked tomatoes without added sugar. Pair it with blistered garlic naan straight from the clay oven, tender lamb rogan josh, and vegetarian mainstays like the velvety palak paneer. The kitchen accommodates halal, vegan, and vegetarian preferences with ease across an extensive menu, best washed down with a cold Kingfisher beer or sweet mango lassi. Saffron-scented biryanis and crisp vegetable samosas round out any table spread.

Know Before You Go Reservations are available for groups, but walk-ins generally turn over quickly thanks to the sizeable seating capacity, even during prime Friday and Saturday dinner rushes. Motorists can take advantage of a rare dedicated private parking lot behind the building, while transit users are less than a two-minute walk from Christie subway station. The restaurant operates daily with dedicated lunch and dinner shifts.