You can always count on Midtown East, Manhattan to be lively and full of people whether locals or tourists. Naturally, a slew of restaurants are needed to feed the masses, and that’s where Simon Indian Palace comes in. Nurul Amin, owner and entrepreneur, opened this restaurant venture and added to the many flavors of New York City with this regional Indian cuisine. The ambiance is surprisingly modern but it works well and reflects the area. With a menu crafted by three experienced chefs, everyone is sure to find something on the menu.

Simon Indian Palace takes the guesswork out of what’s vegetarian and what’s not by separating the carnivorous options from the vegetarian ones. The Lasooni Gobi and Tandoori Vegetables are just two flavorful vegetarian appetizer options, with many more to choose from. The classic Saag Paneer doubles as a chef’s special consisting of spinach puree and paired with housemade cottage cheese. It’s said to be a contender among the best in the city. Some standout non-vegetarian options are the aromatic and palatable Simon Special Chicken as well as the Chicken Chettinad. The latter is a South Indian delicacy consisting of tomato, onions, garlic, ginger mustard seed, curry leaf and coconut.

With such vast menu options it’s hard to imagine having room for desert. After washing down your meal with one of their flavored Lassis, save room for something else sweet. Simon Indian Palace offers deserts such as Rice Pudding topped with raisins and candied almonds. It’s the perfect end to a meal whether you visit them for dinner or for lunch.

By Monique Wise

Photo Credit: Jason Greenspan