Mud Oven: An Indori-Punjabi Treat

Open kitchen to table is not a new concept, but I bet it’s not what you think of when you are visiting restaurants in Indore area. Right? That’s what you can expect to find at Mud Oven. Located behind Malhar mega mall A B Road, Indore. From last 4 years, Mud Oven describes itself as having “Indori-Punjabi Food” because the aroma of indori spices comes directly from the punjabi tandoor is quite usual once you entered in the 3 floored premise. I don’t know that I would go that far as to say it is Indori-Punjabi Food, but I would say it is a refreshing change from the typical punjabi food.

The decor of Mud Oven sure is not what you would expect from this typical Punjabi restaurant. It is modern looking with faux wood walls and an overall minimalist style. Now I’ve got it! Rather than say it’s Indori-punjabi food, it’s more of North meets Central West. Beyond the decor, the paneer malai tikka, covered with white sauce and light spices, that I can say it was comparatively bland for any typical indori dishes.

Although there are some special mocktails(non alcoholic), I tried the buttermilk, but the Nimboo Pani, sweet lemonade with a hint of cumin, was more of a favorite.

Again, instead of typical Indian curries served with lot of oil and grease, you’ll get here all the dishes served with right quantity of spices and oil. See what I mean about that modernized Indian food? Hands down the special of the house, “Khade masale ka paneer” a typical indori-spice blend paneer was was the best thing we tried. And it’s not just the paneer and seasoning. It’s the tandoori paratha too.

Other dishes, Dahi ke aloo and khatti-meethi dal  were also incredibly well-executed but didn’t reach the same caliber as the paneer dishes. Besides the Khade masale ka paneer, a kumbh surkh, slow cooked in the Tandoor, was another favorite. Marinated in yogurt, it has a slightly bitter, yet pleasing taste.

Prices are so affordable with entrees averaging just about Rs 200-250. Although relatively established, I think Mudoven has winner on his hands with Tandoor dishes. Surprisingly, the young waitstaff, unlike many of the other Indian restaurants I’ve visited, is super friendly and happily greets guest upon arrival.

Food: 4/5 (Best in all) Service: 3.5/5 Ambience: 3.5/5 Hygiene: 3.5/5 Value for money: 3.5/5