Gateway To India

Ah Gateway to India. I’ve been eating here for a few decades now, dozens of times. Which is honestly the most committed relationship I’ve ever had with anything that isn’t a couch. And it’s almost always been great. I say “almost” because nothing in life is perfect, except maybe the moment you realize tikka masala is out here doing more for humanity than most politicians. Now, the first time I went, I misread the sign. I thought it said Gateway to Indiana, and I got excited in a way no adult should ever be excited about Indiana. I walked in expecting the full Midwest starter pack: • A casserole held together by cheese and prayer • Mashed potatoes that taste like they were seasoned by someone afraid of flavor • A Jell‑O salad with fruit suspended inside like it’s trapped in amber Instead

This was my first time visiting after driving by many times, and I finally decided to give it a try. The service was friendly and welcoming, which I really appreciated. The restaurant itself had a calm, relaxed atmosphere, and it was nice to enjoy a quieter dining experience. The buffet had a limited selection, and while the flavors were on the lighter side for my taste, everything was fresh and well prepared. I’m curious to come back and try an entrée off the regular menu, since buffet offerings don’t always reflect the full range of flavors a kitchen can offer. I’ve lived in Tacoma for the past five years and am still on the hunt for an Indian spot that really stands out to me, but I’m glad I stopped in and gave this place a try.

Let's start with the great and work our way down. First, the food is phenomenal, like really really good, I had an amazing dish, not even sure what it was called and a sweet naan bread both were to die for. My wife had the most creamy curry I have ever had and it was full of flavor. In the middle of the road side was the service, it wasn't bad, it wasn't great. The guy seemed bored at his job, but I get it we were there pretty late in the evening, no harm done. On the bad side is the decor. This place seriously needs a renovation. It feels very stereotypical, and also a little grungy. I would just recommend a spruce up to make the place feel like it wasn't a caricature of Indian culture Still, will definitely be back, I understand they do a weekday buffet and I would love to do that!

Doesn't matter how good the food is. If the service is unfair, I will not support again. I placed an order over the phone. Spent $195 (including an automatice gratuity added of 18% because it was over $100 order) and paid over the phone. When I came to pick up the food, order they got all my order correct. However, when I looked at the portion of the food, I realized I might want to order another dish. Mind you, this is a separate ticket order, meaning I would wait another 10 min, which I didnt mind. Total came out to over $28 for one butter chicken. I asked why is it so much? The person said because he's charging me for gratuity. I told him its two separate order. He said he's adding it to my first order which is incorrect. They charged me 18% already why charge me another 18%

Recently renovated! The inside is gorgeous, the booths spacious and very comfortable even when I plopped down in it on accident. The food was heavenly. We got chicken kabobs (the sauce was soo good), the appetizers came with soup/rice and the soup was the best lentil soup I've ever had, homemade cheese tikka masala kept warm over little candles, naan, goat curry, and ginger ice cream that was soooo creamy!! Sorry I didn't think to take pics until I already started eating everything. New favorite place to eat. With drinks and after 20% tip it was under $100