Sitar Indian Cuisine
| Address: | 1133 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA |
| Phone: | +1 831-427-3000 |
| Site: | sitarsantacruz.us |
| Rating: | 4 |
Location
Photos 53
Reviews 15
MA
mawp
Another hidden gem, this is one of the few restaurants in the Santa Cruz area that genuinely amazed me. The restaurant doesnt look like a lot from the outside. Walking down Pacific, I would not have ever noticed it had the smell of garlic naan not hit me as I walked by. On my first visit, I walked inside on chance and bought a wrap, eating half there and bringing the other half home. The food is absolutely divine. One of my fellow diners had visited India before and never had such amazingly spiced Indian food. For those with sensitive palates, it has a gentle spice that is easily discernible but not overpowering. I generally dislike ginger as it is easily overused, but it was used here in quantities that were tolerable and added to the dish. The staff are very friendly people. Their smiles light up the room, which feels just like a home kitchen would. All of their cooking is easily visible from the seats nearest the cashier, and it is obvious that they work hard to keep the kitchen very clean and well organized. I will visit Sitar again and again, even if Im not quite in the mood for Indian food, because it suits my tastes perfectly no matter the day.
A
A Private User
I have an abundance of experience with Indian Cuisine and Sitar was a welcome surprise. The staff was very courteous and I was very shocked to find out that the owner was the one doing the most basic work. I had allready asked to speak with the Manager and as I enjoyed my food scanned the place to see who she was. Eventually, I found out and shared some wonderful words with her. Only in the best Indian Restaurant that I have experienced have I know an owner take some much pride in his/her business. I had Saag Aloo, which was delightful and the Garlic Naan was warm, crisp and soft near to perfection. I also enjoyed a refreshing Mango Lassi, which was neither too sweet or creamy. I look forward to many more enjoyable meals there! Bon Appetite! Namaste
NE
Nelson Ramirez
The entrées all taste great; you cant really go wrong with the chicken/lamb tikka masala for a nice, filling meal or the tikka wrap for a quick bite. The only thing I have to mention thats a negative is the service is sometimes borderline rude. I will say its not always the case, but there have been a couple times where I walk away from the register wondering if there is something wrong with the guy behind the register. Im not overly sensitive to it because Im just there for the food, but I can understand why someone might leave this place a little angry with the service. Bottom line is great food, hit or miss service.
AD
Adam Field
We tried the buffet; it wasnt -the- best Indian food Id ever had, but it was pretty darn good, still. I will say this: their pakora in the buffet were probably my favorite pakora Ive had. The buffet was only vegetarian (so Santa Cruz of them), but I cant fault them too much for it, as I really didnt miss the lack of meat, and its probably why it was so cheap (7.50, not bad at all for a fairly expansive buffet). I did miss their gulab jamun (the only dessert when we went was a carrot pudding that really just tasted like chopped up carrot), but Im still totally a fan of this place now.
A
A Private User
This place has only gotten better over time. Originally it was mediocre, but time has passed and word must have reached the owner. This is now our favorite Indian food place. The staff is very friendly and the food is yummy! I think the owner may be a younger looking woman. She is always very interested in our thoughts. Once I thought my okra was overcooked. I told them and it came out perfect! Good portions too. The buffet is a hit and miss, but pretty fresh and stocked often. Avoid the nastyness of Royal Taj and try this out. (There is always Kyber Pass too)
KY
Kyhiera Miller
I was trying the keto diet on my last visit so only purchased butter chicken and palak paneer for myself. The chicken was amazing and generously portioned. Added some garlic naan and samosas for my son. Enough food for both of us for under $35. Garlic naan looked and smelled amazing and, having already tried the samosas here, I know they are substantial and delicious, if a bit spicy for my sons liking. Ive had the buffet, which gives ample choice and is a good for budget eating, but I much prefer the meat dishes, personally.
A
A Private User
I just moved here from Portland where I had my FAVORITE Indian food place. I was bummed to leave it. I tried SItar thinking it wouldnt be good because it didnt really look "authentic" but its sooooo good. The Chicken Tikka Masala is some of the best Ive had..and their naan is really high quality. I really recommend this place!! Ive never had the buffet...I just stick with the menu so maybe thats why people are giving it just OK reviews? I loved it!!
AN
Andrea Webster
Decent Indian food, very fast. You order at the counter and they bring it to your table. The food is not bad, but not a lot of choices. I was suprised I couldnt get lamb with any vegetable combos. They have combos with chicken, but they wont let you order them with lamb. The full meal isnt much, because the raita is only about a tablespoon, and the salad is just lettuce, not even any dressing? The mango Lassi is great!
LU
Luke Murdock
I was pleasantly shocked and Amazed by the food here. I got a sampler platter with a little bit of everything and The Taste and flavors of all the sauces were on point. I even complimented the chefs. The service is seriously substandard. But its totally worth it for the food. Take my advice guys kids actual waiters or waitresses.
ME
Melody Powell
My first trip to California, also my first experience with indian food, and I tell you what. Living in Texas, I have yet to find another place as yummy as this one. I am a Chicken Tikka Masala addict. I also LOVE the Naan. Not too keen on the cold wet dough ball desert, but.. I will definitely be back the next time im in Cali.
A
A Private User
This place had a great lunch buffet for a good price. Vegetarian friendly with pakoras, chutneys, multiple veggie main dish options, and a really great atmosphere. Located right in the middle of a shopping district. Plus, the owner is hilarious to watch her dote over customers and nit-pick at staff actions.
A
A Private User
We had the chicken vindaloo and tikka masala. The tikka masala was pretty good but the vindala was only satisfactory. The samosas were alright too. However, the price is a bit high. Santa Cruz has a severe lack of quality Indian restaurants and Sitar does not help that cause.
SE
Sean Mikawa
One of the few Indian places Ive tried and found to be favorable. I especially like their specials, where you get a mix of like 4 different small dishes at a very reasonable price. It makes for a surprisingly light, but tasty and filling meal. Would come here again.
A
A Private User
Being an Indian, I know a thing or two about Indian food. This place surprised me with the quality of food and absolutely brilliant service. 5* for all the waitresses. Will visit again for sure. Definitely recommend to my close friends and family.
A
A Private User
i had always passed by this place and wanted to try. when i finally did i was pleasantly surprised! the food was amazing and the service was really good. the prices werent too bad. all i have to say is that the food was beyond good!!!
