By: Hunter Boschert
Situated in a quaint converted house tucked away behind trees on Bardstown Road is the hidden gem, Kashmir. The menu contains an abundance of authentic Indian dishes so diverse even non-adventurous taste buds can find a safe appetizing option.
My table ordered an appetizer to preface our feast. First up were vegetable pakoras ($4.75). These freshly-diced and fried bundles of vegetables lightly tossed in chickpea batter arrived at our table piping hot and served along with a deep red tamarind sauce. I noticed a little spice kick when first biting into the pakora, but that can be mellowed with the sauce if it proves to be too much. A surprising feature to the dish was the lack of grease as they were perfectly fried.
As for entrees, there are dozens of chicken, seafood and lamb options. Vegetarians will be pleased to find a dedicated menu along with many rice and bread choices. Entrée prices walk the fine line between “cheap-eats” and “moderately” priced as most range from $9.50 to $13.99. When ordering, diners must select the spice level of the entrée (mild, medium, hot and very hot). Depending on the level of hunger, most dishes served will produce enough leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
An order of cheese naan ($3.75), which is flatbread stuffed with cheese, garlic and herbs was shared among the table. The naan was tasty when devoured by itself but very delicious when soaked in an entrée’s marinade. Although the garlic was strong, the cheese helped balance the dish. There were many different types of naan on the menu for diners who do not prefer cheese
I ordered the chicken tikka korma ($12.99), which was boneless white meat chicken marinated in a rich red cream sauce with the spice level set to hot. The entrée was delivered tableside with a large portion of both white rice and the marinated chicken served in tin bowls. First, I spread the rice on an empty porcelain plate then layered the marinated chicken on top. The cream sauce definitely had a kick with the hot spice level, but it was not overpowering and was seasoned perfectly with various spices, herbs, nuts and raisins.
When going for the first time use caution when selecting a spice level. I thoroughly enjoy spicy foods, so the spice level did not have much effect, but the last thing a diner wants is for the food to be so spicy that he or she cannot enjoy the dinner and all the rich flavors the dishes have to offer.
Kashmir is a very simple restaurant complete with dim lighting, stained menus and old booths, which can create a lackluster environment. Service can vary from busy nights when your water glass may become empty and stay that way to slow nights when the staff is so attentive it becomes annoying and awkward for patrons.
For nights when the weather cooperates, outdoor seating is available in a courtyard setting and the best part is that it allows for great conversation and the typical-people watching on Bardstown Road. Ample parking is available across Bardstown Road at Mid-City Mall.
Do not let the subpar service or lack of amenities distract from an authentic Indian dish. The food will not disappoint. For a different cultural experience, Kashmir is a notable option.
Rating: 4 Shields
Address: 1285 Bardstown Road
Alcohol: Beer and Wine
Hours: Sunday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.