Dakshin

Dakshin Review

South Indian eating places often rate high on taste but low on attention to decor, with functionality being the main theme. By contrast Dakshin makes a hullaballoo in the presentation of its delicious South Indian specialties, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, serving dishes in gleaming brass bowls and thali platters on banana leaves with dozens of condiments. In this plush environment, fragrant with jasmine flowers and incense, soothing nadaswaram (a traditional South Indian wind instrument) hums in the background. The curd (yogurt) rice melts like butter in your mouth, and the platters of mini dosas offer an excellent chance to explore the possibilities of this addictive South Indian staple. Kozi varuval (spicy fried chicken tossed with onion) is excellent, as are the fish curries. To sample the whole gamut of south Indian food—especially those non-vegetarian dishes that are not available in more humble Southy eateries—opt for a thali.