As the Juneuary gloom sets in, many seek comfort in the warm and flavorful offerings of Haveli, the newly opened Indian restaurant in Portland’s Alphabet District.
Haveli, situated on Northwest 23rd Avenue near Quimby Street, opened its doors in late 2024, with a second location launched in Washougal, Washington, just this past April.
The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere is complemented by lively Indian pop music, creating an enticing environment for diners looking to explore its extensive menu.
While solo diners can find satisfaction in a single dish, it’s recommended to gather a group of hearty eaters to truly experience what Haveli has to offer.
With generous portions that may induce a food coma by the end of the meal, sharing is definitely encouraged.
One standout item on the menu is the mango tikka masala, priced at $18, and can be complemented with tender lamb for an additional $3.
Accompanied by a refreshing mango lassi for $6, this dish exemplifies a current culinary trend centered around mangoes, which has gained popularity in the Pacific Northwest post-pandemic.
This rise in mango dishes is attributed to increased cross-cultural demand and advancements in cultivation techniques, offering Oregon diners a delightful taste of this exotic fruit.
The mango tikka masala delivers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, boasting a pleasantly thick curry that is perfect for dipping with naan, which ranges from $4 to $7, available in butter, garlic, or cheese variants.
The dish features a precise ratio of vegetables to succulent meat that maintains a perfect level of crispness, making each bite a pleasure.
However, one can quickly reach the point of total satiation, especially after indulging in such a richness of flavors and textures; it is common to feel utterly stuffed at the end of the meal.
A date night scenario proves advantageous for those looking to sample multiple dishes without overindulgence.
The partner’s chicken biryani, priced at $19, was well-seasoned and undeniably succulent, making it an enjoyable complement to the fuller flavors of the tikka masala.
To further explore Haveli’s offerings, the pair shared a few appetizers, including the punjabi fish pakora for $12 and the samosa chaat for $11.
While the reviewer found the fish pakora lacking in crispy batter-fried texture, the accompanying tamarind, mint, and yogurt sauces elevated the dish significantly.
The samosa chaat impressed with its variety of toppings, making it a flavorful embodiment of traditional samosa wrapped in a vibrant medley of ingredients.
Although the timing of the meal was slightly off—the appetizers came after the main course—the deliciousness of each dish made the experience rewarding, especially as leftovers later on.
Haveli’s heat index leans towards mild and medium, meaning those who crave a spicier experience may need to specifically request increased heat levels.
The reviewer found the balance of heat in the mango tikka masala to be a personal challenge, desiring more spice while also relishing the sweetness of the mango.
Navigating the spice levels and understanding which dishes benefit from heat density is a delightful journey for anyone wanting to savor Indian cuisine fully.
Haveli’s menu offers an extensive variety of appetizers and entrees that beckon for attention, and the options that stand out include onion bhaji for $9, fried Chicken 65 for $15, and a selection of scrumptious curries.
For those craving a truly indulgent meal, the half-dozen tandoori-marinated lamb chops priced at $30 promise to be an irresistible choice, epitomizing the art of traditional Indian cooking.
The only way to have a perfect experience would be to be carried away from the table in a princess-style retreat, but as long as the food remains this tantalizing, even a wound-up stomach won’t deter diners from returning for their next visit.
Haveli has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for those in search of hearty and flavorful Indian dishes in the Portland area, promising an authentic culinary journey worthy of sharing with friends or loved ones.
image source from：wweek
