One Yelp reviewer reveals that the building at 450 South Norfolk Road has served as a revolving door for businesses that just couldn't cut it in San Mateo. A burger place, a brunch spot, you name it. But when Tabla Indian Restaurant opened here six weeks ago, only about three miles from Hillsdale Square, he believes the curse was broken—and so do many other local eaters.

Tabla may not look particularly fancy at first glance, but its fare is fresh and authentic, say reviewers. If you're craving something crunchy, try the chicken dosa. The tender meat comes stuffed in a large, golden-brown shell with savory yogurt sauce on the side for dipping. Don't forget to sample some of the naans, too, especially the garlic naan. It's perfect for scooping up anything that remains of your entree, which could be chicken tikka marsala, shrimp biryani, or one of the many vegetarian dishes on the menu at Tabla.

Tabla Indian Restaurant
450 S. Norfolk Road
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 393-4338
www.tablaflavors.com
www.yelp.com/biz/tabla-san-mateo-2

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr Phil Denton