Pasadena food devotees have a reason to rejoice as Akbar returns to Pasadena at 404 Arroyo Parkway this month under the ownership of Avinash Kapoor and Sri Sambangi.  Just one look at the beaming chef-owner in his new digs puts a smile on everyone’s face, including our’s.

The new location features an update of its stylish contemporary Indian cuisine.  The site  across from Whole Foods is not far from the one Chef Avi left four years ago.  For the background on Chef Avi, please see https://localfoodeater.com/akbar-restaurant-the-secret-is-in-the-spices/

Put simply, the menu feature the essence of each dish prepared with fresh ingredients, to order. You could go right down the menu and be satisfied. And we did, starting with the most popular standards to see how they stand out.

The lunch and dinner menus are categorized into starters, soups & salads, Vegetarian & Vegan and Desserts with clear descriptions Suggestions by the Chef for accompaniments include drinks ($6-$7) , such as Lassi’s and and small sides ($3-$4) such as raita, papadum, mixed pickle and mango chutney. There is also a thoughtful Chili Meter that ranges from 1-5!

The dinner menu adds an entire two pages of dishes featuring dishes made to order form the Tandoori Grill, Basmati Rice, Meat, Seafood, and more Vegetables.

Avinash Kapoor always had a devoted following at his Pasadnea Akbar for the 20 years on Fair Oaks until 2018.  In fact, The Pasadena Weekly voted him the best Indian restaurant in town every year the restaurant was open at its nearby site at 44 N. Fair Oaks Avenue. 

Could it get better? Yes. The complimentary underground parking around back has an entrance to the restaurant out of the elements.

AKBAR, 404 South Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena CA 91105, 400 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena, CA 91105, Phone: (626) 720-3699. Hours: Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun 11AM–2:30PM and 5–10PM. Fri 11AM–2:30PM and 5–11PM. https://akbarcuisineofindia.com

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