7spice - McLean

On a weeknight, my friends and I were craving Indian food, so I suggested we try Cafe Taj in my neighborhood of McLean. I had been introduced to it by an Indian friend and enjoyed it. We ordered butter chicken, a shrimp dish, an eggplant dish, and the usual naan. The butter chicken was okay, but a bit disappointing as it was slightly sour. The shrimp and eggplant dishes were tastier and were served with Basmati rice. We also decided to split the mixed grill, which the wait staff warned us would take at least some time. Despite their hesitation, we ordered it and found it to be the best dish of the night. Overall, the restaurant was average, including the wait staff, with nothing particularly special. The menu had nice selections, but I felt it was a bit pricey. The portions were mostly sufficient for our group.

We ordered the two entrees...but the sauces, tasted much the same. One was ginger chicken, one was curried shrimp. Both also looked like the same sauces. We had to pay extra for the shrimp...not worth it, as portion was not small. We ordered Naan and expected a charge for that, but the raita sauce is also an extra charge. Restaurant was very empty, which is a shame. Could have been so much better. I'd like to return, but I suggest they do some menu choices that reflect different sauces.

I have tasted some of the best Indian cuisine at this restaurant.

This Indian restaurant is excellent, with attentive staff who don't rush you. It's the perfect place to unwind after a busy day or week at work.

I wanted to take my wife someplace different for Mother's Day. I had spent far too much money on dinner's for her birthday weeks prior. The Goal? No place generic and the meal has to be under Cafe Taj fit the bill nicely. Very, very good food, the place was fairly quiet and filled with couples at on a Sunday evening, which I thought was awesome! The staff is friendly and they make sure you have enough of everything. I will add... In their market area, they would fair better and gather another grouping of customers, by simply updating their decor. Switching from plastic flowers, to live flowers or plants adds a special flare. Overall, a good experience and I'd be willing to return.