“ In the heart of New London's historic district, where Buddhist prayer flags flutter alongside a centuries-old brick facade, Swad Tandoori offers more than just a meal, it presents a meditation on value and tradition in modern American dining. On a recent winter afternoon, sunlight streamed through the restaurant's expansive windows, casting warm patterns across tables where both college students and local workers gathered for lunch. The interior, with its unpretentious teal wainscoting and comfortable wooden chairs, speaks to the establishment's commitment to substance over style. The menu prices here feel almost anachronistic in 2025, a complete meal, including tax, barely crosses the 22 mark. This pricing philosophy seems to stem from the owners' apparent belief that good food should be accessible to all, a refreshing stance in an era of inflated dining costs. A steaming bowl of vegetable soup arrived first, its orange-hued broth carrying the bright notes of fresh cilantro and the earthy depth of well-developed spices. The lamb buna that followed proved to be the kitchen's showcase of expertise - tender meat swimming in a perfectly calibrated sauce, accompanied by vegetables that retained both their integrity and flavor. At a mere 9.95, it's a dish that punches well above its weight class. The chicken naan represents the restaurant's necessary and sad concession to American palates, a creation that might raise eyebrows in Delhi but finds eager acceptance in blandish Connecticut. Yet even this adaptation maintains a level of quality that elevates it above mere fusion fare. In the dining room, a peaceful humble atmosphere prevails, enhanced by the gentle whir of ceiling fans and the soft clink of water glasses being refilled by attentive staff. The restaurant's Buddhist influences manifest subtly, in the unhurried pace of service, in the mindful presentation of each dish, in the general sense of tranquility that pervades the space. What Swad Tandoori offers is increasingly rare: a restaurant that maintains its cultural authenticity while remaining remarkably affordable, a place where the food is carefully prepared but not preciously presented, where the atmosphere encourages lingering but never feels sluggish. In an age of rising restaurant prices and diminishing portions, it stands as a quiet reminder that good food, thoughtfully prepared, need not be a luxury. ”

“ Fantastic restaurant in New London. The host is awesome and the food just amazingly delicious. I just loved the way it was served so piping hot and tasting perfect. ”

“ Went with friends for dinner, one of them had never had Indian food before so this was the perfect place for an official introduction to this type of cuisine. We shared the samosas and they were just right - crispy but not overcooked and flavorful We all shared an order of keema nan and garlic nan, both went well with my paneer makhani (a delicious vegetarian option), which was very savory with a bit of sweetness and incredibly satisfying They also gave us a big plate of rice that we all shared and we were all stuffed after and each of us only spent about 20 10/10 one of my favorite restaurants in New London and will be going back! ”

“ They started off by bringing out a little treat (papadam with cumin seeds) for us to snack on while looking at the menu. I personally love cumin seeds and any sort of chip so I was thrilled. We got the lamb momo, saag paneer, onion naan, and house platter. The food was excellent. The service was quick and friendly. The prices and portions were great as well. Keep in mind that we got quite a bit of food, but we had enough leftovers to make a full lunch the next day. We both can’t wait to go back to try more of the menu. Edit: Been back many times and the food remains amazing. ”

“ We were a party of six and shared our meals so we tasted six meals. Mine was chicken tikki masala. It was mild and sweet. Others included chicken korma, spicy, which was hot! Also shrimp masala and a few vegetarian meals. Everything was delicious! The service was excellent and the prices were ridiculously low. Get the family appetizer plate. Scrumptious samosas with tamarind, cilantro and raw onion for dipping sauces. Wow, great variety. We all took home leftovers. Downtown New London was bustling and charming to be there. If you go - and I bet you will- specify mild or spicy. It's a lovely meal and I can't recommend it highly enough ”

“ I’ve been here a few times. This time just came by for Valentine lunch. As always this place has the most authentic and delicious food around. Prices are so reasonable and you get good portions. The service is always outstanding. The owner doesn't miss a beat taking care of customers. And always pleasant and funny. We ordered Paneer Pakora with sauce; garlic naan, lamb and chicken. We almost ate everything but brought the rest home because it was so much. You feel like you are in India. Love this ambiance and simple decor. I can't wait to be back. ”

“ We look forward to enjoying Swad each time we visit the area. The food has been unfailingly delicious. Whether we're there as a couple or as part of a large group, the service has been warm and friendly. Portions are generous and the prices are more than fair. This place is a gem. ”

“ Very good little Indian place, glad we stopped in on the way a show at the Garde. My go-to got for Indian has been Spice Palette. Menu here is cheaper. The tandoori mixed platter was phenomenal! All of the meat was very tender, well seasoned, and I liked the accompanying lemon slices. Husband tried the Tibetan steamed buns. They were ok but I imagine they would have been better with a sauce to sop them up with. We also got the garlic naan. The star of the show is the tandoori. I will be back again to try other things! Service and time to eat was pretty fast. ”