The Hindi word tandoor refers to long, curved clay oven used in India for cooking and baking: the clay subtly affects the taste of the food and the intense heat means that, despite being cooked on the outside, it retains its moisture and any added seasoning. This oven is just one of many traditional methods used by this fine São Paulo restaurant.

Decorated with images of Hindu deities and serving the delectable favorites of its owners Mansha and Lakhi Daswani, Tandoor offers a spicy survey of Indian cuisine.

The vegetables samosas make for a good start to any meal, as do the freshly baked Indian breads—all served piping hot (including the divine, yogurt-based nan) with an intriguing array of sauces. As far as the main courses are concerned, Tandoor’s lamb curry is excellent, as is (of course) the tandoori chicken. Together, they’re enough to make you want to thank Ganesha for this place!