Bollywood Zaika UPDATE - Redondo Beach

Oops I did it again. 

I have NEVER ordered the exact same dinner two days in a row, but Bollywood Zaika's Butter Chicken is no mistake. My finger didn't slip on the Ubereats - I just had to have it again. So. Much. Cream. Unbelievable texture, gravy like silk. This is like the Harvard of butter chicken, go crimson!

The Palak Paneer again. The fenugreek adds a layer of depth to the flavor that spinach alone just won't do. I got it on a plate this time so there were some softer sides to for contrast. The Daal is a gentle lentil, little buttons of comfort and substnace. The Jeera Aloo has a little more oomph, spiced potatoes the color of the sun.

Here's an app I’ve never seen: Vada Pav.  A patty of spicy potatoes on a toasted bun parties with a chutney that kicks. It's like a veggie burger slider, but I've literally never had a meat burger that could beat this balance of seasoning.

You got me, Bollywood Zaika, you got me good. I can’t stay away, and for Indian food, I can no longer stray. I don’t know what kind of crack you're sprinkling on your spices, but keep doing it because whatever it is has got me hooked!

Bollywood Zaika - Redondo Beach

Fast-casual Indian, the best takeout there is. The never-soggy breads travel fluffy, the curries reheat like they were never cold, and the spices soak deeper and deeper with time, making leftovers better by the day. 

Bollywood Zaika is no exception, but they do make an exceptional Palak Paneer. I’ve never cared for this dish, but I’d put up a fight for this one. The spinach has a creamy quality, the fenugreek adds a pop of pungency, nothing like the pulpy filler-slime you might find elsewhere. The taste is bold and fresh, and the chunks of paneer are bright and cheesy, a firm and assertive contrast against the surrounding slurry. 

Order the Chicken Vindaloo with cautious recommendation because when it comes to spice, they don’t play. The chicken comes in tender chunks, perky with a bit of tart, a lot of smooth tomato, and a slightly nutty finish to delay the inevitable burn. It’s not Indian-hot, but it’s at least Indian-mild, which will set a spice-wimp sweating. You won’t die but have some milk or yogurt handy because it’ll hurt you good. 

Garlic Naan is is good, though this one has just a dusting of the breath-killer. The texture is soft and chewy, evenly thick, evenly cooked. Do make sure to order a side of rice as the naan alone won’t be enough for two.

I like Bollywood Zaika, but I think I would love it if I tried it some more. If they have even one other entree as life-changing as the palak paneer, I’ll add them a star on my Bollywood boulevard.