Skip the car and make the short walk from Hotel Solitaire to sana-di-ge, a finer Indian restaurant in Bangalore, Karnataka. Eerily bright red neon lights illuminate the walkway into the modern chic restaurant catering to the city’s burgeoning middle class. An open air feeling ,with just enough privacy, is achieved with dark lighting, slightly over-sized tables, cushion-comfortable chairs and high ceilings.

My friend and current Bangalore resident, Balaji, was responsible for the restaurant pick. Our server was a friendly fellow, dressed in a crisp white uniform that one comes to expect in themed restaurants of India. Diners won’t leave hungry with the broad selection of traditional Indian fare mixed with Asian and Western influenced entrees. First up for us, crispy spiced potatoes with curry leaf. Delicious. Then on to garlic naan, dal, and peas in a spicy gravy. And by spicy, we’re talking “take no prisoners” spicy. The flavor was intense, simple, and satisfying all at the same time.

To sweeten my palette after such a rush of hot spice, gajar ka halwa was in order. As good as the main entree and appetizer, the sweet carrot finale eased down one spoonful at a time.

Sana-di-ge’s atmosphere is relaxed, uncomplicated and conducive to conversation with minimal effort. Background noise is muted thanks to the numerous wall hangings and heavy furniture. Excellent for business meetings, friends and family, find yourself here for a meal above the rest.