Ajanta is one of the better Indian restaurants in the Bay Area, despite its lack of authenticity. Rather than duplicate authentic Indian standards, Ajanta plays with them, tweaking the dishes into something unique. They even present the dishes in a swank, Parisian manner. But don't let that throw you off - the food is usually quite good, and always amazingly fresh and high quality. The Maloni Sabzi and the Dhaniwal Murg Korma are intensely flavorful, rich, tangy, and uniquely prepared. The Malabar Chicken Curry is closer to authentic India, and is actually the same soupy stuff usually served with dosas. The portions can be skimpy, and some of the appetizers are kind of a joke, but overall it's one of the better Indian restaurants you'll find in Berkeley. If you're looking for authenticity, go to Cafe Raj down the street, Vik's, or the amazing Udupi Palace on Univeristy and MLK.
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