Le Taj: Downtown Indian dining that’s a cut above the rest

Don’t be fooled by its name – Le Taj is not your average Montreal Indian eatery. First off, it’s located near McGill on Stanley, a shade south of Sherbrooke. Secondly, it’s no hole-in-the-wall, plastic-covered table Johnny-come-lately: Le Taj has been serving Montrealers pillowy naan bread for over twenty-five years and just reopened after a (worthwhile!) renovation project.

The new Taj is absolutely gorgeous. Between the carvings of goddesses which adorn every table as candelabras, the wooden sculptures on the creamy white walls, the high ceilings, the ambient lighting, the copper salt and pepper shakers and the modernist flatware, they’ve captured the essence of a classy establishment without losing Indian flavour.

And the food ain’t half bad either: the Taj offers an extensive list of lamb, chicken and vegetarian dishes. Everything my companion and I ordered from the tandoori oven came out perfectly – from the fluffy naans to the moist and delicately spiced tandoori chicken. An okra curry was flavorful without being overwhelming, and the staff was helpful, warm and welcoming.

While the prices are noticeably steeper than they might be in Park Extension, the ambiance, friendly competence of the staff, and quality of the food offer ample compensation For bonus points (and an easy-on-the-wallet alternative), check out the lunchtime buffet, which is delicious and affordable.
 

Le Taj
2077, Stanley | Metro Peel
restaurantletaj.com