Monte Carlo Yacht Pier 3

After experiencing some of the best Indian cuisine in Germany, I was disappointed that the best that San Francisco could offer me was Indian Oven on Fillmore - uninspired curries and overcooked tandoori dishes. Last Friday, a group of four of us decided to try out Mehfil, our local Indian restaurant. Keeping our expectations low, we were just hoping for passable food. Boy, were we wrong. The food was affordable, spicy and fantastic. Highlight dishes: Chicken Lachha - spicy and tender, Garlic Naan - a perfect teardrop naan... both crispy and tender as a naan should be, Chicken Tikka Masala - with its beautiful nutty flavor, and the Kadahi Chicken - made appropriately spicy when asked. The Rogan Josh was good, but a little oily for my taste (but not inappropriate for the style), and my friends who were samosa divas found them to be OK - not bad, but not the best. The Butter Chicken was also nice - not a favorite dish of mine, but very well made. All of the chicken dishes, aside from the Chicken Tikka Masala and the Chicken Lachha are made with thigh meat - which I happen to prefer as it lends better flavor and texture, but for some who only eat (the typically flavorless and overcooked) breast meat - be prepared for poultry with flavor! Great to have in the neighborhood, and the best Indian so far in SF proper. more

Great for take out; this is one of the best values in the city. The venue is a bit lacking but its cool to watch the cooking from your table. I often get the lamb and mixed veggies as it is a solid combination. The nann is also excellent. This is a really authentic indian restaurant with a lot of unique charm; I highly recommend it. more

If you are looking for the best naan, curry or any traditional Indian cuisine Mehfil is the place for you. I am truly addicted to the Chicken Tikka Masala, and at the end of a long day in the financial district, you can take it out or eat at the restaurant. more