The Bottom Line
In an unassuming little nook on the bustling Utrechtsestraat, Meghna offers a cozy place to have a tasty, genuine Indian meal accompanied by fast service with a personal touch. (See below for the full review.)
Pros
- Friendly, accommodating service.
- Delicious, authentic food.
- Reasonable prices.
- Central location on a stylish street.
Cons
- Small space; often too warm from the kitchen heat.
- No outdoor seating.
- Not open for lunch.
Description
- Address: Utrechtsestraat 28, Amsterdam
Phone: +31 (0)20 625 1392 - Kitchen open:
Daily 5 - 11:30 p.m. - Location: Eastern Canal Belt, between Herengracht and Keizersgracht.
- Tram lines: 4 to Keizersgracht, or 9 or 14 to Rembrandtplein (walk down Utrechtsestraat).
- Attire: Casual.
- Scene: Locals, passing visitors, couples and small groups. A bit cramped for more than five or six.
- Décor: No-frills, basic clothed tables. Feels cozy.
- Good to know: Reservations suggested.
- Drinks: Full bar, wine approx. € 15/bottle; Indian and Dutch beers.
- Payment: Accepts major credit cards.
Guide Review - Meghna Indian Restaurant - Amsterdam Restaurant Review
The owner of Meghna prides himself on making guests feel welcome and well looked-after. After dining here just a couple of times, he started to call me by name and my husband by his favorite dish ("You will have vegetarian menu?"). While my husband always orders the same combination dinner because he can't resist the value for money (€ 15.50 for a starter of soup, a choice from two main dishes, a mixed vegetable side dish, rice and dessert or coffee), I can't resist trying something new each time, as the dishes never disappoint. Meals always start with plenty of pappadums, delivered almost as soon as you're seated with both a light yoghurt a tamarind sauce. I opt for the daal soup, with just enough tangy lemon to cut the density of yellow lentils. Lately I've been stuck on the Saag Murug (€ 13) as my main course, a dish of melt-in-your-mouth boneless chicken mixed with the spicy, creamy spinach the Indians do so well. Past favorites have been another chicken dish, Tikka Masala and, of course, the Rogan Josh with lamb (ask for it extra spicy!). And who can enjoy an Indian meal without naan? Not me, and mine is always garlic (€ 3).
I've always loved Indian food, but I'm often put off by restaurants that cover up mediocre ingredients with loads of oily ghee (the clarified butter used in Indian cooking). While the food at Meghna is rich with flavor, the dishes don't come drowned in the shiny stuff. I'm no expert, though, and some more seasoned diners might call this restaurant pretty basic (the interior certainly is). But for me, the basic formula of delicious food at very reasonable prices, served by someone who treats me like a guest in his home...well, it works.
