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Taste the Soul of India

Soul of India on Route 20 in Sudbury, MA

The Metrowest area has what seems like an infinite number of dining possibilities. Many of these establishments, I have driven past hundreds of times and never given a second thought. Soul of India on Route 20 in Sudbury, is one of these restaurants. Conveniently located equidistant between Route 128 and Framingham, Soul of India provides an intimate setting, high quality service, and authentic Indian cuisine.

In full disclosure, I had never eaten Indian food prior to my meal at Soul of India, so I really didn’t know what to expect. Of course I had reservations about spice, spice, and more spice. What I was hoping for was an experience that would allow me to learn more about the cuisine and come away having enjoyed an authentic Indian meal. 

Soul of India on Route 20 in Sudbury, MAUpon entering the restaurant, the time and energy taken to include traditional Indian decor was evident. We were seated very quickly and offered a basket of thin crispy bread (much like toasted Syrian bread) accompanied by three dipping sauces ranging from spicy, to savory, and sweet.

The waitstaff was very knowledgeable, and provided us with an explanation of the menu. Our server made sure to ask us what kinds of foods we enjoy and since it was our first time eating Indian food, recommended selections that were less spicy. Our order included garlic Naan, Vegetable Samosas, Tandoori Cooked Chicken with Pepper and Onions, and Chicken Tikka Masala. The waitstaff was spot-on with their selections, as the food fit our tastes. Each dish provided a mild spice, tempered by our server’s recommended of a refreshing mango smoothie made with fresh fruit and creamy yogurt.

The goal of Soul of India is to provide “a mix of authentically traditional Indian fare with a modern flare and offer a unique menu not previously seen in the Boston area.” The restaurant also provides a full drink menu, and a small but very functional bar space at the front of the restaurant. Additionally, most of the dishes can be prepared as gluten free upon request; Soul of India also offers an extensive vegetarian menu. In addition to the full diner menu, Soul of India provides an extensive daily lunch buffet, which allows patrons to sample more of their offerings, without the added expense. I believe this is one of the most reasonably priced dining establishments that I have visited during my time writing for Mass Foodies. Dinner for two, including drinks, was less than $70 including tip.

If you are looking for an authentic meal, Soul of India is conveniently located on the eastern side of Metrowest, and delivery is an option for those living within five miles of the restaurant. I fully expect to visit Soul of India again, and adventurously delve deeper into the menu. Soul of India is located at 103 Boston Post Road, Sudbury, MA 01776.

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Lamb Vindaloo

Lamb Vindaloo from Surya on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester

Lamb Vindaloo from Surya on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester

Having only eaten Indian food once at a buffet at the age of 10, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect for this Foodie event at Surya Indian Restaurant. My fellow foodies were obviously more versed on Indian cuisine and patiently explained the menu to me. I was told to order the Naan, a traditionnal Indian bread, and to use this as a utensil to move the food from my dish to my mouth. I was also told to order cautiously as many of the dishes can be incredibly spicy. While I do like some spice in my food, I was relieved to have taken their warning seriously. After going back and forth between chicken and lamb, I eventually decided on lamb vindaloo – lamb curry cooked with potatoes and very hot spices (although I asked our waitress if I could have the sauce to be a medium spice) and the Keema Naan, bread filled with lean minced lamb and onions. The naan arrived first and was delicious! The thin bread was filled with tender, well-seasoned lamb and sweet onions. I ate half of the order before my meal. When my lamb arrived, I was a little taken aback by its color. The sauce was a brilliant red-orange color. When I tasted the meat and potatoes, I was pleasantly surprised despite my initial response to the color. The meat was moist and tender and the potatoes were cooked to perfection. The sauce was rich in flavor and very spicy. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the spices used to season the dish, but I can assume they have alot to do with the color. My only regret was that the dish was not served with a slotted spoon because I found the sauce to be a little rich for my liking and felt that it overwhelmed the lamb and potatoes. Overall, my fist adult Indian experience was better than expected. I would return, but would need to bring one of my friends along who is more familiar with the menu. -AV