OK, there are a few things that make us cross the Delaware River -- the gas is cheaper, the casinos are fun, the shore is great in the summer and since February there is also a new culinary attraction, IndeBlue in Collingswood, N.J.
In fact, the restaurant was voted Philly’s Best New Indian Restaurant by Philly Mag.
Chef Rakesh Ramola learned his skills in London, moved to Philly and grew his reputation at Tiffin, a web-based Indian/Asian haute cuisine delivery service.
When the time came to buy his own restaurant, he took a huge risk – especially in the current recession -- he sold his house.
Luckily, the venture paid off. And soon, it was a family affair. Ramola’s wife became head of the waitstaff. And it’s a job she takes pride in, carefully explaining the dishes to each and every customer.
”We take the time because we want everyone here to have a good experience.”
Speaking of the food, we suggest trying one of the several pre-fixe platters, called Thalis. Choose from seafood, vegetarian or chicken and lamb. All offer a variety of traditional Indian foods.
The most distinctive treat might be the spicy, saucy dishes which come with naan bread, samosas -- fried potatoes and peas covered with dough -- or papadum, a thin, crispy wafer.
And if you enjoy wine, bring a bottle because IndeBlue is a BYOB.
