First Impressions:
From the moment I entered Aga’s, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and welcome. The red carpet met with the smell of the open kitchen felt like a painting that I had found myself inside of.
The aroma of exotic spices caramelizing on an open flame permeated the air, hinting at the culinary delights that awaited me. The attentive staff ushered me to my table with grace, setting the stage for what would prove to be a remarkable dining experience.
While the menu looked more like a short novella, I have had some experience with Indian cuisine, so I felt comfortable finding something good. However, there were multiple employees coming to check on us, the ladies with the cups of water, the men with the bread and meats, and even the owner came over to talk to our table. All of them with recommendations and warm smiles. They felt like a nice family.
The Main Event:
As I perused the menu, I knew that this was not going to be a simple order. We started with the chicken lollipops, based on the owner’s suggestion, and they arrived quickly. They were chicken meatballs stuck at the end of the bone, closely resembling a lollipop.
More meat was to come hot and seasoned on the bone, and the seasoning was excellent. We ordered goat biryani as a sort of side dish to share with a few orders of garlic naan bread. There was no feasible way for us to finish this meal at that table, but it did not stop us from trying. The food was hypnotic.
Taste Sensation:
Each dish tasted like a masterpiece. From the savory chicken lollipop starters, an instant favorite, to the steaming hot naan bread coated with garlic and herbs, each dish was a testament to Aga’s culinary mastery.
The goat biryani had the most depth of flavor I’ve found in a biryani. The earthy spice of the rice found friendship in the hug of the naan bread.
The chilled mango lassi provided a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors, leaving my taste buds tingling with delight and refreshing my palate like only a cold yogurt drink could.
What stood out to me about this meal is the consistency in quality. The raw vegetables like onions, cucumbers and tomatoes, the rice and bread that you use to scoop up the meat, and, oh my goodness, the meat balanced extremely well. Everything here tasted phenomenal and set the bar for me on Indian food.
Ambiance and Service:
Beyond the delectable dishes, it was the impeccable service and genuine hospitality that truly set Aga’s apart. The owners and managers, gracious and personable, took the time to personally greet each diner, ensuring that every guest felt like a cherished member of Aga’s family. Each team member walks around with a tablet that helps them stay communicative and on top of your service.
Final Verdict:
In conclusion, Aga’s stands as a beacon of excellence in Indian-Pakistani cuisine being one of the renowned restaurants not just in Houston but in the country. From the vibrant flavors of the dishes to the unparalleled hospitality of the staff, every aspect of the dining experience exceeded my expectations.
Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of South Asian cuisine, a visit to Aga’s is sure to delight the senses and leave you longing for more. There are a lot more dishes to try on my future visits to Aga’s, but after seeing what they are about, I have no doubt that any dish you order from Aga’s will knock your socks off.