With its “Contemporary atmosphere, eclectic dishes and innovative cocktails,” Arth Bar + Kitchen is bringing modern Indian cuisine to Culver City. Upon entering the restaurant, you are met with the aroma of intoxicating spices from the chef’s counter and open kitchen. It is here where Executive Chef Sagar Ghosh and his team perform their magic. The tempting menu features classic Indian dishes that draw inspiration from Los Angeles, and a secret weapon – a Tandoor clay oven. Not only does it cook the food fast, but it allows all the items to retain their moisture and robust flavors. And flavor is an understatement because the food is outstanding.
Starting with the small plates. The Kolkata Fish Fry, (Asian seabass fried to perfection in a cilantro parsley marinade) is delicious. The Bombay Burger, comes with the works but the kicker is the buttered brioche bun. Chef Sagar Ghosh even has Chicken Bites, a version of South Indian fried chicken. The small plates are outstanding, but make sure to save room for the entrées.
I love Paneer, and Arth Bar + Kitchen’s Paneer dishes reign supreme. The Palak Paneer Ke Kofte, (spinach coated paneer balls in a rich velvety sauce), and the Paneer Makhanwala, (Paneer in creamy tomato gravy), are out of this world. Fan of eggplant? The Baghare Baingan, (deep-fried young eggplant in peanut sesame gravy) is perfect for you. Chicken lovers will fall in love with the Dhaba Murgh, (street style chicken curry), Butter Chicken Dilli Wala, (Tandoor cooked boneless chicken in creamy tomato sauce) and Cornish Hen Tikka Masala, (classic yet modern butter chicken). If you’re like me and can’t get enough seafood, you must ty the Lobster Moilee, (lobster cooked in sweet coconut milk, turmeric and curry leaves), Fish Tkka Masala, (Basa fish tossed in onion and pepper), and the Malwani Jhinga, (coastal style shrimp curry). And now for the Arth Bar + Kitchen Bread Basket. Prepare to die an go to heaven with three types of naan: Garlic, Butter and Chilli Cheese (stuffed cream cheese and chili bread). Salivating yet?
Wash down your meal with one of Arth Bar’s unique cocktails. Highlights include: The Simple Things (Cocchi Americano Blanco, Amaro, Aperol, pomegranate, grapefruit, Peychaud bitters, with a lemon accent), the East India Trading Company (Bacardi White Rum, vanilla liqueur, lychee, pan leaf, eucalyptus, bitters and soda water), and the Spiced Oaxacan (20 Los Vientos Mezcal, cinnamon-infused sweet vermouth, tobacco bitter, orange and a cinnamon stick).
Culver City just got a little more vibrant, thanks to the arrival of Indian restaurant Arth Bar + Kitchen. The savory menu, cutting-edge cocktails and contemporary décor creates an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more. $15; Monday – Sunday, 11:30 am – 10:30 pm; 9531 Culver Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232; 424.603.4155
Photo Credit: Tonelson
