Tandoori Trail - Smithfield

wanted something different so I gave this place a try. Cool atmosphere and the food was good.

A Mixed Experience at Tandoori – A Culinary Sojourn with Nuanced Observations My inaugural encounter with this North Indian establishment in Smithfield, NC commenced with a to-go luncheon that was nothing short of exemplary. The order was processed expeditiously, and the takeout experience was unmarred, reflecting a commendable attention to culinary detail and presentation. However, the subsequent dining experience, which I shared with my fiancé as we endeavored to broaden his gastronomic horizons, revealed certain operational challenges that warrant constructive critique. Upon our arrival at approximately 6:30 PM, we were promptly greeted and seated by the sole attendant and chef—whose visible overwhelm suggested staffing constraints. Although his courteous demeanor was appreciated, the ensuing service was intermittently delayed. Our drink orders were not attended to for nearly 20 minutes; I had to remind the waiter on two separate occasions to procure my cola, which, compounded by the malfunctioning fountain drink machine, resulted in a suboptimal beverage experience that did not meet the standards I anticipated. Our culinary selections—both opting for medium-spiced butter chicken—initially promised a delightful encounter with the renowned creamy, spiced sauce. The sauce, indeed, was a triumph of flavor and texture, exuding a complex amalgam of aromatic spices. However, I observed a perplexing deviation when, after sampling what I presumed was a second serving of butter chicken, I discerned a gamier profile and an atypical coloration suggestive of lamb. This inadvertent substitution, which was neither forewarned nor communicated, proved disappointing, particularly for my fiancé and me, as it diverged from our initial expectations. The service milieu was further compromised by an atmosphere of derision among other patrons regarding the waitstaff’s efforts, an observation that only deepened my empathy for the beleaguered server. His palpable stress, at times verging on a near panic, elicited a measure of compassion that influenced our decision to extend an 18% gratuity—a gesture meant more as an acknowledgment of his dedication than as a reflection of the overall service excellence. Advisories for Management: • Augment Staffing Levels: An increase in personnel would likely mitigate the delays and ensure that guests are informed of any wait times due to operational constraints. • Beverage Service Enhancement: Prompt attention to the malfunctioning fountain drink apparatus is imperative, as its repair would preclude the inconvenience of limited beverage options. • Protein Authenticity Notification: It is essential to communicate any deviations or substitutions in protein offerings to patrons, thereby maintaining transparency and upholding the integrity of the culinary experience. In summation, while Tandoori in Smithfield, NC, demonstrates a laudable prowess in crafting richly flavoured North Indian cuisine, particularly in the realm of its exquisite sauces, the attendant service challenges and occasional lapses in culinary communication detract from an otherwise promising dining experience. With strategic improvements in staffing and operational logistics, this establishment could very well ascend to the status of a culinary paragon in the region.

We stopped in after the wine walk. I think perhaps they weren’t expecting the crowd/business and were a little unprepared. It would’ve helped to have one more staff member to help patrons. Other than that, amazing. Food was delicious, well spiced and came out quickly. Will absolutely return. Glad to see more options than fried chicken and southern dishes out here.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Butter Chicken Burger, Chicken Tikka Masala, Cheese Naan

We loved this Indian place! The food was so good. We got butter chicken, tikka masala, samosa, and garlic naan. I will slightly agree with the other comments, for Smithfield, NC and the amount of chicken we got, $20 per entree seemed a little high, would have liked to see more like $15-$17. But quality was still good nonetheless. Would go here again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

A nice small restaurant, I went with my wife around lunch it was our first time here. My wife got the Butter Garlic Shrimp, I ordered Tikka Masala with Rice. I have to say this will be a go to spot for us. Our server was pleasant, and the food was amazing. I love Indian food and the masala and shrimp were some of the best we've had. I highly recommend trying it out, you won't regret it.

First time here and we will definitely be back. I’m a huge fan of Indian and Persian food and everything we ordered was absolutely fantastic. Lamb Tikka was tender, Paneer Khurchan and the Samosa Chaat FULL of flavor! The service was wonderful, the server was kind and gave us suggestions which were all delicious! Also, the Rupee IPA is a nice addition to your meal! I’m super picky with food because I grew up eating Persian food at my best friends home which quickly became my favorite…and though not identical, this restaurant gave me memories of similar fragrances and flavors, which I thoroughly enjoyed! Will definitely be back!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Samosa Chaat

Hidden gem! The food is great and so is customer service!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Excellent service. Nice atmosphere and food is excellent.
We will definitely be back and recommend them to others. Try the Mango Lassi drink.

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Recommended dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala

Absolutely delicious 10/10

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Butter Chicken with Cheese Naan or Rice, Cheese Naan

just moved to the area and I am very excited to know there is an amazing spot like this right around the corner!! friendly & knowledgeable staff, great service, and good portions of food. will be back asap!!

Vegetarian options: great options!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Butter Chicken with Cheese Naan or Rice, Chicken Tikka Masala, Cheese Naan

Absolutely amazing food. The staff is wonderful, kind and thankful. I 100% recommend coming here as I will often. First impression was amazing. Probably the best Indian food I’ve had in NC.

Recently picked up an order from Tandoori Trail. I ordered the chana masala, makhani wings and garlic Naan. Everything was hot and fresh and delicious. I always have a good experience at this local food spot. Customer service was exceptional. One of my favorite places to eat

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 4

Service: 5

My daughter and I had a great experience ? at Tandoori Trail. I ordered the Lamb Curry and Garlic Naan and she had the quesadilla and deliciously seasoned fries. 5 star customer service from beginning to end. The atmosphere was relaxing, I enjoyed my meal even more because of it. We got our meal to go as we had to get home but the Garlic Naan was soo good, we got some to go and a Mango ? Lassi (Highly recommend both). We will be coming back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Lamb Curry

The salmon tandoori was delicious!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Butter Chicken with Cheese Naan or Rice, Lamb Curry

Unfortunately I only had the option of recommending or not recommending instead of rating Tandoori Trail. It’s true that overall I would recommend them. The food is outstanding! The only issue at all is that you should be sure to get it to go because eating in at the Smithfield location is a frustrating experience. I don’t run nor have I ever run a restaurant, so I’m no expert here, and I can only imagine that there’s a delicate balance going on behind the scenes keeping the lights on and at least the take out business going, but to build the in person part, you have to invest some money into it. There’s no ambience. There’s no bartender. There’s no experience. None. Zero. There *is* really good food if you’re willing to deal with that. Or just get it to go. While you can.