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"Best Indian Restaurants in the Washington, D.C. Area"
by Monica Bhide

"Woodlands (4078 Jermantown Rd., Fairfax, 703-385-1996; 8046 New Hampshire Ave., Langley Park, 301-434-4202; and 18216 Contour Rd., Gaithersburg, 301-963-4466). Simplicity is the charm of the restaurant, and authenticity is the charm of the food. The rice-and-lentil crepes contain many choices of stuffings, including an unusual one of Indian cheese. If you are bold, try the Milakai Podi, a fiery mix of spices served as a side; in southern India it is called “gunpowder” because of the kick it provides. Sprinkle it over your dosa or rice.

I love visiting this restaurant on the weekend, when spiced steamed-rice-and-lentil patties garnished with coriander, cashews, and cilantro are on the menu. If your taste buds hanker for something really fiery and delicious, try the Indian-style pancakes with onions and chilies. Tear off a piece and dip into the freshly prepared coconut chutney. Have a mango shake on hand to cool the fires. Pistachio ice cream and a glass of perfectly brewed cardamom tea will leave you sated. End your meal with a paan, a traditional and much-loved Indian mouth freshener prepared with betel leaves, grated coconut, fennel seeds, and areca nuts."

Best Indian Restaurants in the Washington, D.C. Area, Sally's Place