Eat Local: Batika India Bistro of Novato

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Patch picks a restaurant in Petaluma, Novato or San Rafael that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

www.batikaindia.com

868 Grant Ave.

Novato, CA 94945

415-895-5757

Overview: Some Novatans sighed when a second Indian restaurant opened in Old Town. In surveys I’ve done in connection to my consultancy with the Novato Redevelopment Agency, residents said, “No more Italian.” But is there room for a second Indian? After dining at Batika twice, I can say there are significant differences worth checking out between this new eatery and its rival across the street, Anokha. In a time, when people are looking for alternatives to red meats, Batika prepares dishes with salmon, scallops and prawns.

Interestingly, the owner, the chef Anil Shahu and the waiters are all from Nepal.

Décor: The lush interior of the former Italian restaurant call Portelli Rossi (and, prior to that, Kitchen) has been enhanced by a display of a native dress and hand woven fabrics. A wall of mirrors helps to give the impression that the interior is larger than it is. Tables royally set with tablecloths, even at lunch, add to the special dining experience.

The Drinks: Of course, there is wine and beer, but they also make the most delicious mango lassi.

Appetizers: Look for Mulligatawny soup, a nice Indian salad with mint dressing (Desi), or a bargain priced warm chicken salad ($4.95) made with tandoori chicken, crisp romaine and curried caesar dressing. The later, if you don’t go for the lunch buffet, is a good light lunch.

Entrees: There are Indian vegetable, chicken, lamb and seafood entrees. What sets Batika apart is a nice array of seafood dishes, especially dishes from Kerala, the garden state of India. One standout, from the South, is the coconut lemon shrimp. Tender, fresh-tasting shrimp, tomato and yogurt, lemon flavors and lots of black mustard seeds make this dish especially delicious.

All entrees, whether eaten in or taken out, are discounted 15 percent in the opening months.   

Lunch buffet: The buffet is also a step above its nearest competitor. There is a rice pilaf, a savory dal, chicken tandoori (without the nuclear tinge that makes it look like red dye No. 2 was used in the marinade), the luscious butter chicken, at least two vegetable dishes, a fried item and rice pudding. ($8.95)

Desserts: Rice pudding.

Service: Knowledgeable and friendly.

Cost: $

Handicap accessible: Yes.

Noise level: Can talk easily