Amber India

25 Yerba Buena Ln (between Market & Mission)
(415) 777-0500
www.amber-india.com/SanFrancisco

I'd been to the original Amber India in Mountain View for the buffet lunch with the fam before, so was pretty excited to show M how awesome this place is in the new location in SF, post happy hour at Press Club.

We decided to share the signature Butter Chicken which I insisted on and the Wild Mushrooms Teen Saag with some basmati rice and the Lacha Paratha. The first comment I'll make is that though we had plenty of food for two girls (even with one of them being myself,) the portions at Amber India are way too small! The Butter Chicken, though delicious, was no better or different than Chicken Tikka Masala I've had elsewhere. Same creamy tomato-based sauce that I'd argue is just as good at Naan and Curry for a fraction of the price. The saving grace to the scarce morsels of tandoori chicken was the plentiful sauce left on the plate - perfect for lapping up with bread. Our saag veggie dish consisted of cumin and garlic spiced spinach, dill, and mustard greens with cremini, shitake and button mushrooms. I love spinach and mushrooms so this dish could really do no wrong - especially since the mushroom pieces were substantial and juicy - however, I couldn't help feeling like I could make this dish myself.

The real standout during the meal with the Lacha Paratha, flaky and layered whole wheat bread that was warm, nutty and light. But again, you get four measly triangles at nearly a dollar a piece so we had to ask for a second order. Come on bro!

I'd say M and I had a good meal, but the bang for buck was just not there for dinner. I'm happy to come back for the buffet anytime.

The Verdict: Worth It Only For Lunch