If you’re seeking first-rate South Asian dining in the Palo Alto area, look no further than Darbar Indian Cuisine, recently the winner of the Best of Palo Alto award for Best Indian Food for the fourth straight year.

The family-owned establishment, located just off University Avenue on High Street, is handsomely furnished with many traditional paintings gracing the walls. The service is polite and impeccable, and waiters are happy to recommend good starting dishes.

And the food is fantastic. If you’re starting with an appetizer, try Vegetable Samosa or Pakora, onion fritters made with lentil flour. For something meatier, beef, chicken, fish and prawn starters are also available.

Most main courses come with Pilau Rice and a generous serving of Nan bread, useful for diluting the spicy taste of most of the items on the menu. The restaurant does a fine job with the quintessential Indian entree — Chicken Tikka Masala. This Tandoori chicken, served in a mild, creamy sauce, is Darbar’s most popular dish. It makes a great entry point for those unsure about what to order. Also highly recommended is the Mango Lassi, a sweet drink made from mango juice and homemade yogurt. It’s the perfect complement to any meal at Darbar’s.

The more adventurous connoisseur of spicier foods will find much to enjoy here as well. Order the Vindaloo and the waiters will warn you, “That one is spicy.” They’re not kidding. Whether you order Chicken, Shrimp, Lamb, Prawn, Beef, Pork or Vegetable Vindaloo, eat slowly to avoid sweating. Take advantage of the opportunity to converse and savor the meal.

Darbar also caters to the vegetarian set with a wide selection of meatless dishes. In addition to mixed vegetables in curry sauce, Palak Paneer, creamed spinach and homemade farmer’s cheese, comes recommended by the management. Paneer Do Playza, farmer’s cheese with bell peppers, onions and spices, is another good option.

If you’re looking for a dining experience completely different from typical American, Italian or Mexican fare, stop by Darbar. You won’t be disappointed.

Darbar Indian Cuisine

129 Lytton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301

$$

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11-2:30

Dinner: Sun-Wed 5-9:30, Thu-Sat 5-10