A small Indian restaurant in Manhattan

Maintaining its 'top-of-the-line' status among the ever-increasing number of Indian restaurants in New York City, AMMA greets its guests with an affable charm. A small restaurant with its dining space of the size of a living room in a modest Manhattan apartment, AMMA has earned an extraordinary reputation in its nearly decade old existence. Diners go there not just for Indian food but for a fulfilling and delightful meal served by a gentle and well-mannered crew.

Music and lights are unobtrusive and blend well with the mood set by the restaurant. AMMA’s increasing popularity may have led to the overcrowding and rising noise levels one encounters there. You would be willing to forgive these if exquisite Indian cuisine is your main pursuit.

AMMA preserves the distinct flavors of Indian food in a discerning menu carved from the best of North Indian cuisine. Interestingly, the food also has a sprinkling of South Indian ideas and tastes. The variety of dishes available here not only coddles your taste buds to the fullest but also manifests the art of cooking in a delectable manner. The wine list matches well with the food, both in terms of quality and flavor.

An interesting array of appetizers include vegetable Manchurian balls soaked in a tangy sauce, saffron malai chicken spiced and dressed with saffron and cream, spinach chaat textured for a crunchy feel served with cooling sprouts.

The entrées do not cease to entice. Comprised of globally renowned chicken tikka masala, all-time delight paneer makhani (paneer is home-made cheese loosely described as cottage cheese) and magical koftas and curries, the entrées do have a rightful claim to fame.

Most creative of all is the paneer gulkand - the exemplary dish made of paneer and rose petals. Pale crimson rose petals sandwiched between ivory triangles of tender and creamy paneer glorified by upbeat and gracious mint gravy, make this dish a stupendous treat.

Garlic naans (Indian bread) brushed with butter and sprinkled with tiny flakes of coriander leaves make perfect companions for the aromatic food. There are other types of bread too. The trio of rice can provide a distinctively thrilling twist to the food you order.

The mango cheesecake reigns supreme in the dessert menu followed by kulfi. If you relish the richness of sugar and cream, gulab jamuns could be a choice to consider.

AMMA triumphs in its food!