Indian Oven Restaurant

The most overrated Indian place in the city. People line up and endure long waits for the honor of getting squished into the always packed Indian Oven. It's possible that since there really isn't much good Indian food around, this place gets graded on a curve. Maybe that's the appeal? The way I've heard people gush about the breads, lassis, various dishes, you'd think there would be something noticeably good about the food here, but nothing I've ever had has been better than mediocre. You'd think every once in a while there'd be a fluke really good dish, but that hasn't happened yet, and won't happen anytime soon since there are at least 5 other Indian joints I know of that are much cheaper, never crowded, and serve much better food. Oh how the subjective nature of taste puzzles me… more

I took a couple of friends here for New Years Eve. We made reservations so seating was prompt. Service was decent. The waiter came to check up on us several times to make sure that things were okay and even suggested some dishes that turned out to be delicious! We had the combo tandori dish as our starter. The lamb was delicious and tender; the chicken tikki was heaven. The curry was also really good. The best thing I had that night was the Onion Naan. It was amazing!! Will definitely be visiting again. more

Just outside the Fillmore and off the bustling Geary, Indian Oven Restaurant is another simple Indian Restaurant offering more than just simple fare. Plain white walls, dark beams and bare tables create a calm, cool atmosphere in which to choose from a menu featuring much of interest, especially to those - and I'm among them - who like their verdure. The appitizers looked good but I couldn't resist starting with carote curry from the list, which also included interesting things done to endive, verdure in padella curry and piroshki-type of food, the tiny flat onions cooked in a sweet and sour oil. Here they come with raisins and are marvellous. Great place! more

What's that coming out of the big pizza ovens at the front? Could it be the uniquely spicy treat known as Indian Pizza, without the usual tomato-based pizza sauce. Spinach is the base for Indian Oven Restaurant's spicy toppings which also include choices of lamb, ginger, green onions, and of course garlic. Plenty vegetarian dishes, and an abundance of other Indian specialities are available. Perhaps you'd like a slice and a bowl of Muill Igatawny Soup or some Dal. Maybe deep fried Samosa's and then wash it all down with several refreshing and reasonably priced beers both Indian and domestic. more

Indian Oven simmers with yummy food smells and an excellent restaurant atmosphere. The front half is a little small, but up the stairs are more tables with more room. The food is absolutely wonderful. Just great. Very good vegetarian choices, including Navratan Korma and Palak Paneer. I melt in their mango Lassie, and devour the garlic naan. For special occassions, I always make a reservation here. more

I know, I know - it's crowded and noisy, the tables are too close together and there's always a wait. This is still my favorite Indian place in San Francisco. Nothing fancy or out of the ordinary, but consistently good execution of favorites like chicken tikka masala, lamb vindaloo, saaq paneer, etc. Good beers on tap, and always a lively scene (plus it's close to Nikkis BBQ if you need somewhere to dance it off...) more