Whether you’re having a date night, a family dinner, or just a night out with friends, Bollywood Theater on NE Alberta and 21st is the place to go.
From the moment you walk in past walls shelved with Indian kitsch, tables set with silver cups and plates, and a wall projected with a Bollywood movie, you’ll feel the fun vibe that makes Bollywood Theater so enjoyable. This is an order-at-the-counter-and-take-a-number type place, and the atmosphere is definitely casual, but the food is so good and reasonably priced that it fits any occasion.
The outside of Bollywood Theater restaurant. (Photo: Ella Bohn)
The menu features a mix of Indian street foods, and you’re not likely to find many of the typical Indian restaurant staples like chicken tikka masala or biryani. The menu changes seasonally, although some items are always available. You’ll definitely want to eat family style and get several plates to share. The kati roll ($7), basically an Indian-style burrito with tender and comforting paneer, chicken, or beef complemented by the crunch of pickled onions and the sweet tang of chutney all wrapped in paratha (flatbread), is a must have and it’s always on the menu. The egg masala ($7), hard boiled eggs in a delicious curry sauce, is a great vegetarian option and if you come hungry, make it into a thali meal ($11), which comes with saffron rice, dal (stewed lentils), and other delicious sides.
The vegetable dishes change depending on what’s in season, but they are almost all good. If you go anytime soon, make sure to try the green tomato pakoras ($6), which are deeply pleasing deep-fried green tomatoes with a sweet chutney. The winter squash ($6) with red chili and yogurt is also delightful.
You really can’t go wrong at Bollywood Theater and the food comes faster than you can believe, so come hungry and ready to try everything.
If you have a sweet tooth, get the homemade chai. It’s creamy, spicy and slightly caramel-y in all the best ways. Better yet, walk next door to Salt & Straw for a scoop of ice cream afterwards—if you have any room left.
You can check out the full menu here: http://www.bollywoodtheaterpdx.com/menu-2/
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