So I was a little bummed when I saw Star of India in Carmel Valley Piazza had closed. A sign said it would reopen as Royal India, but since those folks are responsible for the mess that was the UTC food court Royal India Express, that didn't seem promising.
Went in today during the "soft opening."
Happy surprise!
First, they've kept the existing staff. I've been probably one of their longest-time customers, and so I've seen a number of these waiters working since they were youngsters. Glad to see they were kept on!
DECOR: Much updated from the old place. Fancier, nice stone elements, more open.
BUFFET: Bigger than before! They had a very refreshing chaat salad (I think that's what you call it - cold marinated chickpeas with onions and herbs), plus samosas. And they have mango chutney in addition to tamarind sauce and mint chutney. Seemed to have a few more curries too. Veg ones today were: dal, navrattan korma, palak paneer and a dry zucchini curry. They were all fine - nothing spectacular city-wide, but perfectly tasty and serviceable.
KITCHEN: I think it is in fact the same folks, and same recipes for now. The waiter told me that it's a new owner, and that there will be more changes, but the owner is in the same family as the old owner. In fact, the new owner and/or manager is someone I recognize from about 10 yrs ago - he used to be the host/manager at this location. Maybe he grew up and bought the place from his family.
Bigger selection, same quality, same convenience. I'm happy to have the new Royal India (that is, the revamped Star of India) back in the neighborhood!
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