Review - Brij Mohan

Brij Mohan has some of the finest (all vegetarian) Indian food to be found and exemplifies minimalism at its best. From its place in a simple Sharonville strip center, no table service and to using all disposable containers, plates and utensils; this is the epitome of no-frills dining.



This restaurant (and sweet shop) is very small and crammed to capacity with tables. Even then, there are only 5 “tables for 4” and 2 “tables for 2”. They have daily lunch specials (but closed on
Monday) written on a board behind the counter. For a whopping sum of $4.99 you order from a long list of lunch size entrees, choose your heat level, and choose the type of bread to accompany your meal. Lunch is also served with rice and a small side of lightly spiced onion & carrot salad. One word of caution, I have earned the nickname “asbestos mouth” in some circles, but when I chose “very hot” that is exactly what I got. Trust me, the faint of heart might want to start with “medium hot”. A menu is also available with entrees running from $7 to $10 and a good selection of Indian chaats and appetizers. I’ll save the sweet shop offerings for another review.

Today I ordered a couple of my favorites, the curry kofta and the aloo naan. They take your name upon order, then call it when your food is ready. While waiting, you can help yourself to a Styrofoam cup, napkins and plastic utensils all neatly organized on a small shelf attached to the wall near the counter. There is a bottled water dispenser in front of the sweet case to fill your cup. If your timing is right, there may even be a table for you.

Once seated, it only takes about 5 0r 10 minutes for your name to be called, depending on the crowd. Something magical happens during this time – they are making that food for you! Nothing like fresh potato laced naan from the tandoor. Before I knew it, my name was called and I eagerly walked to the counter to grab my lunch proudly served on a day-glow orange plastic tray. I quickly returned to my table and clicked a picture with my camera phone for your enjoyment.

As always, the meal was piping hot (heat) and contained a great layering of flavors. The curry was just the right consistency, the kofta well formed and tender and the basmati rice perfectly cooked. Best of all was my beloved aloo naan, tender, nicely browned, laced with potatoes and topped with a generous helping of cilantro. As much a possible, I ate Indian style and used my bread as the utensil of choice. Needless to say, my lunch was consumed quite quickly.

Brij Mohan is one of those special gems that stands out from many of the heavily westernized Indian restaurants. Often, I am one of the only non-Indians dining there –looks like the natives know where to find authentic food. But the secret is getting out………. I never thought this confirmed carnivorous canine would ever say such a thing, but I could (almost) become vegetarian if I could eat there everyday.