Spice Nation

Spice Nation is the third South/North Indian restaurant in a series to occupy the same place; I've been a fan of all three restaurants. However, Spice Nation took the quality all the way back to India regarding authenticity and rich spices and flavors! The chef and part owner, Elayabharathi Dhanakodi, called me early in the month of October to tell me that he was taking over what used to be Passage To India. I almost jumped for joy because anyone who recalls him, will remember that that man KNOWS how to cook really well! Ever since their grand opening in late October, I've been there at least two or three times a week. Their food is not too bland nor too spicy. They bring naan or dosa to your table and they always keep the ambience filled with lovely Indian music and pleasant incense. It's always clean therein and the host Suresh is more like a family member than a waiter. The chefs: Maharaj and Elayabharathi imbue their food with love and lots of healthy herbs and yes, spice! Warning: their food is highly addictive and tasty and if you don't have it once or twice a week you will suffer from withdrawal symptoms. Haha...

Okay, we had to go back for more and that we did!
We were greeted like we are old friends that had not been seen for years.
The decor as others have said, is burgundy and yellow,. Oh and walk the long hallway and turn right before the grocery store, which in its self is worth the checkout. (psst sells Rich tea biscuits)
The food as i have said before is out of this world good. The texture, smell and taste will make you wish that you had not eaten for 3 days so you can stuff yourself more.
BTW the garlic nan is the best i have found in Indy. Why i hear you ask? It is very crisp the way it should be and not like pitta bread soft.
The staff are out of this world great, think its the owners, will explain everything to you of whats whats is it north or south Indian etc.

I in my visits have not found a con there, oh wait i do have one not going enough :)

OK-I admit I know almost nothing about Indian food.  But, I have yet to try something here that I don't like.  Friendly, clean, and amazing food.

Let me say, the word buffet is an immediate turn off for me.  I think of places like Ryan's food troff.  The buffet here is simple and the best way to experience new dishes.  I took the owners recommendation to do the buffet both times I've been and I have no regrets.  I may go off menu in the future, but this just seems like the best way to learn about the unique dishes and to determine what I really like.

Everything was vegetarian and most items were vegan.  I went on a Friday night which is Indochinese night and loved the selections.  The curry noodles were yummy.  The mushrooms with red chili may be my new favorite dish.

The staff/owners are amazingly friendly.   They are quick to make suggestions and help answer questions about the food.