Punjabi Tandoor recently opened a second San Diego location in Mira Mesa. The original location is a hole-in-the-wall space that is extremely popular.
I was really curious about the second location. Occupying the former Hon Sushi, the exterior was a little amusing. Inside, there is plenty of dining space, a welcome contrast to the very limited seating of the original location.
We went during lunch hours, so they were offering various lunch combinations from the food sitting on the steam trays. Much like the original location, the scoops of food that went into our box were quite plentiful.
All combinations come with naan and kheer
The naan here has never been a favorite of mine. The last time I got it at the Miramar location and it was burnt. While this one was not, it has a fermented sour dough flavor I don’t really like and the texture was also somewhat gummy.
Chicken Makhani, Saag Paneer, Nav Rattan Korma
I love the colors on this plate. I have to confess, I’ve never been quite as big of a fan of Punjabi Tandoor as many of my friends are. I don’t mind eating here, but I also don’t have such a strong attachment to it, especially with so many other options in San Diego. I understand the appeal with their portions and prices, but I’ve always thought the curry flavors to be a little muted, and I felt the same on this occasion.
Chicken Tikka Masala,Lamb Vindalu,Channa Masala
This was Mr. K’s combination box. Again, everything was decent but not memorable.
Kheer
I did really enjoy their rice pudding, which was light and not overly sweet. It was a refreshing end to our meal.
Overall, I do like the space of this second location and they offer the same popular menu. If you’re a fan of Punjabi Tandoor, I think you’ll like their new location. I don’t mind stopping here to eat occasionally, but I feel like there are several better options in San Diego.
You can view the full menu here.
Punjabi Tandoor
5424 Morehouse Drive
San Diego, CA 92121
https://www.punjabitandoor.com/index.html
You mention so many other Indian options in SD – I don’t think there are many other good (authentic) options in SD beside Punjabi Tandoor. What are your favorite Indian restaurants in SD ?
Surati Farsan Mart is my favorite in San Diego. if you haven’t been there, I highly recommend it. it’s the closest I’ve found to the Indian food in the Bay Area and a favorite amongst my Indian friends. they don’t tone down the spices and ingredients they use like many other places in SD.
I must go visit just to merely witness the outside of the restaurant. Maybe I’ll get the meal to go so I can eat in my car, facing the restaurant to get more time to admire the seamless blend of cultures. For me the appeal is the portion size and price. I haven’t been to the original location in a few years but I remembered leaving satisfied with what I paid for.
haha, the exterior is quite interesting. I definitely think they give generous portions, but I wish the flavors were a little more bold.
Yeah sis and I used to visit their Miramar location and found the food to be ‘alright’. Never understood the long lines to get lunch for this place. The new location looks nice and spacious though. Do they still offer the garlic naan with the lunch specials?
I didn’t see the garlic naan option, but I wasn’t looking for it, so I’m not sure.
I tried their original location recently and for the first time. Not a fan. Flavors were flat and the bread just wasn’t soft and tasty like what many other fast food places serve.
I feel the same way. I’m surprised my friends all seem to love it so much.
So do you think the food was the same quality as the original? I also am not the hugest Punjabi Tandoor fan but have always had Indian friends recommend it as their SD favorite so I figure they must be onto something.
I think the quality is about the same but if you’re not a fan of the original, I think you’ll feel the same about this once. It’s a nicer location but the food is still the same