Amazing Indian/Chinese Cuisine in College Station: Namaste!

College Station, Texas, located in the heart of the Brazos Valley, is renowned for being the home of Texas A&M University, one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the United States. As a vibrant college town, it exudes a unique blend of academic energy, southern charm, and Texan hospitality. Beyond its academic prowess, College Station offers an array of recreational activities, from exploring the scenic trails of nearby Lick Creek Park to attending lively sporting events at the university's Kyle Field. With a burgeoning tech industry and a thriving economy supported by a diverse range of businesses, College Station continues to attract students, professionals, and families alike, fostering a dynamic community with a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences.

I went to college in College Station and I'm deeply familiar with many stomping grounds of college students in the area - bars, nightclubs, coffee shops and restaurants. And one phenomenal place for an Indian and Chinese cuisine hybrid is Namaste on Sawdust Road. It's in the Picasso Village Shopping Center, across the street from a giant H-E-B.

When I first found this place some time ago, I found the service to be fantastic before I even ordered the food - friendly and smiles! My work team and I were greeted by a gentleman who was eager to answer all our questions since we weren't familiar with the items on the menu. We ended up telling him roughly what we liked and most of us had a high tolerance for spicy food, and he sort of put together a tasting for us and even included a custom paneer dish! We had naan, paneer, cauliflower in a red sauce (called 'The Dragon'), goat biryani, and an assortment of pakora. Everything was DELICIOUS!! We over ordered on purpose because we enjoy leftovers, and we had enough for another full dinner the next day. My favorite items were the Dragon Cauliflower, and the assortment of Pakora, especially the chili and the potato pakora.

Then, I retuned to this spot with my best friend about two months later, right around Christmas-time. We ordered the butter masala and chicken thighs and, man, they do not skimp on the portions (although I would've liked a little more naan). I winced when I saw the $15 price tag, but at least they give you something that's about your money's worth. The masala, while not massive in quantity could've fed two people. There's a lot of flavor to their food, especially the chicken which was rich in spices. I would've liked if the masala was a little bit thicker in consistency though.

We both loved it so much that we brought four of our other friends about 1 month later for dinner to celebrate a big birthday. There were 8 of us and we shared everything. We had the ginger garlic chicken appetizer to start. Then we had 3 dishes- the chicken Kalimirch, the chicken tikka masala, and the chicken Saaagwala. We had an order of rice and 2 orders of garlic naan. The service was outstanding. Our waiter recommended what to get for the appetizer and the kalimirch and saagwala. Our favorite was the kalimirich. It had a good heat to it. Once again, all of the food was outstanding.

Then, a week before I submitted this article to the blog (about mid-December 2023), my fiancé' and I ordered had the Thai BBQ and the Lamb Tikka Masala. So much flavor and complimentary spices! I was a little surprised the Masala didn't automatically come with basmati rice as I have experienced many times before...But we added the peas pilau which was excellent with both dishes. And the iced tea was delicious as it was not your ordinary Lipton or otherwise bland tea...it was a delicious herbal tea that was great iced. Personally i believe you get what you pay for and this was worth every penny.

Dining at Namaste Indian restaurant in College Station, is not merely a culinary experience but a cultural journey infused with the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of India. From the tantalizing aromas of freshly ground spices to the expertly crafted dishes that transport diners to the bustling streets of Mumbai or the serene backwaters of Kerala, every aspect of the dining experience reflects a commitment to authenticity and excellence. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and mouthwatering cuisine that delights the senses, Namaste stands as a beacon of Indian culinary mastery in the heart of Texas, inviting guests to savor the flavors of India right here in College Station.

When you're here....give it a try!

202 Sawdust Rd Ste 115 Spring, TX 77380

(832) 299-6476

www.namasteirusa.com