by Ken Tsui | Shanti’s Curries is dishing out a very focused menu with organic, ethical, non-GMO ingredients on Main Street. With less than ten items written on a pair of chalkboards, the tiny restaurant specializes in an easy, unpretentious menu of homestyle curries developed from recipes that co-owner Danila Shaw’s mother, Shanti, prepared at home regularly.

My favourite of the bunch is the coconut-based Malabar Fish Curry with ling cod (so fragrant); but other notables include the mild, restorative, cashew-creamed vegetable korma; the filling, coconutty, South Indian chicken “roce” curry; and the super crispy, full-flavoured onion pakoras served with tamarind chutney (gluten free and vegan-friendly).

Shanti’s is something like a super friendly dinner host; it’s bright, communal, quick, and relaxed. Those are the ingredients that go a long way in making the perfect neighbourhood restaurant. Bonus: $8 corkage on wines brought from home.

Shanti’s Curries | 4191 Main Street | (604) 568-7699 | www.shantiscurries.com

AH, BUT HAVE YOU HEARD OF THESE?