When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Royal India Express
Why Royal India Express is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Royal India Express, located in the Westfield Mall in La Jolla, offers a convenient and diverse selection of Indian cuisine that caters well to customers seeking quick and flavorful meals. Despite being an express location, this restaurant features a good variety of dishes that represent authentic Indian tastes, including popular choices like Butter Chicken and Lamb Vindaloo. The setting within the mall makes it an accessible meeting spot for friends looking for a casual lunch or dinner. Although the prices are considered a bit on the higher side for an express-style eatery, patrons often appreciate the freshness and quality of the food. The restaurant operates during convenient hours, opening from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on weekends, making it easy to plan gatherings throughout the day. Additionally, its proximity to entertainment and shopping venues like ArcLight Cinemas and seasons 52 enhances its appeal as a flexible meetup location for social occasions or a relaxed dining break.
Here's what people think of Royal India Express
As of recent, Royal India Express holds a 2.7-star rating based on 80 reviews.
Reviews for Royal India Express reflect a mixed experience among patrons. Positive feedback often highlights the good variety and authenticity of the food offerings, with customers appreciating the express format that still manages to deliver flavorful Indian dishes. Many users commend the freshness of the meals and the diverse menu options that cater well to different tastes and preferences. However, negative reviews tend to focus on issues such as service speed and inconsistencies in food quality. Some diners have pointed out that prices feel somewhat steep for a mall-based express service, and occasionally, the experience does not meet expectations in terms of ambiance and customer care. Despite these criticisms, there remains a loyal base of customers who enjoy the convenience and taste of Royal India Express. Overall, the reviews suggest that while the restaurant has room for improvement, it remains a viable choice for those craving Indian cuisine in the La Jolla area, especially for quick and casual meetups.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hunter Moss
Idk, it’s mall food court Indian food. Manage your expectations. The chicken tikka masala bowl was bland, but honestly a very solid portion of chicken for $10. Not a bad deal imo, many worse values all over the city.
Justin Fan
Food: 3.5/5 Service and Setting: 2.5/5 Value: 2.5/5 From what I remember, Royal India has been a staple in UTC’s food court since forever, gracing its main entrance. They are always offering samples of rice and one of their chicken curries, so you can definitely grab a taste before you commit. The service here was eh, I came when they just opened and when I asked for prices or how many samosas came with the listed price, the lady helping me gave me major stink eye. Even for mall rent prices, I felt that having a two item plate for $12.99 without bread was astronomical. Even though it looks like they pack in the food, in reality, the styrofoam containers they use are thinner than other restaurants. If you are craving Indian/South Asian food while shopping, this is a good option. Samosas be going brrr though, read about it below! Korma Chicken: 3.5/5 I feel like Korma Chicken is a dish that has fallen out of favor with the American Indian food community. I see a lot of vegetable korma but not so much chicken. The Korma Chicken at Royal India is very sweet, much sweeter than I expected. They may do this to sort of differentiate it from their other chicken curries. It has a respectable amount of savoriness in a ubiquitous style tomato-based curry gravy. The chicken in the dish was not dry at all and the ratio of curry to protein was good. For me, it was a little basic and too sweet, but I’m sure that there is no one who will outright dislike this dish. Aloo Mutter: 3.5/5 I liked the Aloo Mutter slightly more than the Korma Chicken, but not enough to give it a higher score. They do not skimp out of on the potatoes and peas. Since I went during their opening time, the potatoes I received were cooked perfectly and even had a slight bite to them. The sauce is a bit plainer than the korma chicken and tastes simply like tomato. Unlike the korma chicken, there is a more savory flavor rather than sweet. The spices used are very mild and because of that there is a lack of depth overall. Meat Samosa: 4.5/5 It is really rare to see meat samosas being offered at Indian restaurants and when they are, they are usually chicken. I believe this one was beef, making it very rare. Let’s start off with the bad. I found the samosa to be very expensive at $2.99 for one with a less than ample amount of filling. The pastry was very oily as well. The flavor though is very interesting and reminds me more of an African style sambusa. The flavors are very different from anything I’ve ever had and are both memorable and delicious. Give one a try even if you chose not to have your full meal here.
Nate Shepard
The food is ok, particularly for food court Indian food. I honestly think it's better than their restaurant locations. The big drawback is that the guy working the counter rips kids off by giving them sauce and one (if they're lucky) piece of meat when ordering a meat dish. He's planning on them not complaining. Don't support this business until he's gone.
sainath thorat
Definitely not Indian food, Aweful biryani. Chicken biryani was filled with veggies(carrot, broccoli, cabbage). No taste at all. Even the curries were terrible. Would not recommend anyone looking for Indian food or any other food.
Henry Cooper
The food at Royal India Express is absolutely divine! The spices are perfectly balanced, and the portions are generous. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves Indian cuisine.
How to reach Royal India Express
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Website: None
Why Royal India Express may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Royal India Express with your friends?
Gathering friends for a memorable meal is all about choosing the right place—one that offers great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and something special to make your outing stand out. Royal India Express is a place that, despite a mix of reviews, holds potential as a meetup spot for friends who appreciate authentic Indian cuisine and a casual dining experience. If your group is looking for flavorful dishes that bring the rich heritage and aromatic spices of India to your plates, this is a place to consider. It’s an opportunity to bond over sharing classic favorites like Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, or the impeccable garlic naan, which ties the meal together beautifully. The staff’s politeness and jovial mood add a friendly vibe that makes the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. Located conveniently in an area where you can easily plan other activities around the meal, Royal India Express invites groups to not just eat but celebrate the flavors of India in a setting that draws both food lovers and curious first-timers. Rallying here can transform an ordinary meet-up into a flavorful adventure that sparks conversation and shared satisfaction among friends.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Royal India Express?
Royal India Express primarily offers an Indian dining experience that can be richly social and interactive for groups. The central activity is, of course, indulging in their menu, which features authentic recipes prepared with traditional spices and techniques that excite the palate. Sharing meals is highly encouraged here—large platters like biryanis or mixed tandoori dishes let groups sample a variety of flavors without committing to one dish alone. This creates a lively culinary exploration perfect for friends who love trying different tastes together. Additionally, the restaurant provides a calm and casual atmosphere where you can linger over meals, enjoy conversations, and even celebrate small milestones or just casual weekends. Some visitors mention that the staff are pleasant and accommodating, which can enhance group gatherings by making diners feel well-taken care of. While there aren’t organized entertainment activities on-site, the setting itself—with its warm interior and aromatic environment—is conducive to intimate, enjoyable socializing over food.
Why is Royal India Express ideal for group meetups and celebrations?
Royal India Express lends itself well to group gatherings because Indian food naturally encourages sharing and the communal spirit of mealtime together. This restaurant’s menu is designed for sharing, with many dishes served family-style, allowing groups to try multiple specialties in one meal. Such a dining format fosters engagement and conversation as everyone tastes and discusses different items. Also, the blend of authentic and rich Indian flavors delivers an experience that feels special and indulgent for group events, making it fitting for occasions ranging from casual meetups to birthdays and cultural celebrations. The restaurant’s location in a convenient shopping or entertainment district adds to its appeal, as groups can combine meals here with other activities like shopping or leisure walks nearby. Even with some critiques about pricing and portions, many patrons find value in the authentic tastes and the warm, friendly environment that Royal India Express offers. It’s a place where groups can slow down, enjoy meaningful connections, and delight in a well-crafted meal that feels both exotic and comforting.
How does Royal India Express’ menu cater to different tastes in a group?
One of the biggest advantages of dining at Royal India Express for groups is the diversity within its menu, which caters to a broad spectrum of preferences and dietary needs. The restaurant offers a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, ensuring everyone from vegans to meat lovers can find something delicious. Staple dishes include richly spiced chicken curries, lamb biryanis, paneer dishes, and a variety of lentils and vegetable preparations that highlight different textures and flavors from mild to spicy. Breads like naan, especially the garlic naan, are crowd favorites for pairing with gravies and sauces, acting as the perfect vessel for soaking up delightful flavors. For groups with an adventurous palate, there are spiced snacks like samosas and pakoras that serve as great appetizers or shareable starters. The menu also accommodates milder tastes and dietary restrictions through customization, allowing spice levels to be adjusted and dishes to be modified. This variety ensures that every friend or family member can enjoy a tailored culinary experience that suits their individual liking while sharing the collective joy of Indian cuisine.
What should groups know about the service and ambiance at Royal India Express?
Royal India Express, while modest and unpretentious in its decor, offers an atmosphere that is both welcoming and relaxed, making it a decent setting for group gatherings. The ambiance is casual enough to keep conversations free-flowing without pressure, but still comfortable enough to make any special occasion feel intimate. Friendly and polite staff are frequently mentioned by patrons, who appreciate their helpfulness and jovial attitude, enhancing the overall experience by providing attentive service without intrusiveness. However, potential visitors should be aware that some reviews note inconsistencies in service or concerns about cleanliness, which might affect the comfort level for some groups. Despite this, many guests feel the authenticity of the food and the cheerful service create a warm environment worth visiting, especially for those who prioritize cuisine over upscale surroundings. Groups planning an event here may want to call ahead for reservations or to discuss seating arrangements to ensure the best experience. Overall, the ambiance and service at Royal India Express provide a space that promotes a comfortable, friendly gathering centered around shared enjoyment of Indian food.
Why consider Royal India Express despite its mixed reviews?
Although Royal India Express has a rating that reflects some mixed experiences, it still holds appeal for many diners attracted to authentic, flavorful Indian cuisine and a friendly dining environment. Some critiques focus on portion sizes and pricing, as well as occasional service hiccups or cleanliness issues. However, many loyal customers emphasize the genuine taste of the food and the polite, cheerful staff as compelling reasons to visit. For groups, this often translates into a place where the collective joy of eating together and discovering rich flavors can overshadow shortcomings in décor or minor service flaws. When planning a meetup, the focus is often on the quality of the food and the ability to converse and connect comfortably—two areas where Royal India Express performs admirably according to numerous positive reviews. For those new to Indian cuisine or those craving authentic dishes in a casual setting, it remains a recommended option. By approaching the experience with the right expectations and possibly visiting during less busy hours, groups can enjoy a flavorful feast and meaningful time together at Royal India Express.
How can you complement a dinner at Royal India Express with other group activities?
When planning a meetup at Royal India Express, the location works well in tandem with various other group-friendly activities to build a full day or evening outing. Situated in urban or shopping areas, the restaurant allows guests to combine dining with activities like browsing nearby stores or visiting local attractions. Before the meal, groups can explore shopping centers, catch a movie, or take a stroll through scenic streets to build appetite and excitement. After dining, dessert spots or coffee shops close by provide chances to extend your gathering with relaxed conversations over sweets or drinks, complementing the Indian meal. For groups wanting to celebrate special occasions, nearby entertainment venues or parks offer ideal spaces for post-dinner activities such as live music, group games, or simply enjoying the outdoors. This flexibility to combine Royal India Express’ flavorful culinary experience with diverse social opportunities makes it a practical and appealing hub for memorable meetups and celebrations.
What make Royal India Express a cultural and culinary experience?
Dining at Royal India Express is more than just a meal—it’s an immersion into the rich flavors and cultural nuances of Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features dishes that are steeped in tradition, showcasing varied spices, cooking styles, and regional specialties that reflect India’s diverse culinary heritage. For groups, this offers a chance to educate their palates and share stories about ingredients or cooking techniques, turning dinner into an interactive cultural experience. The generous use of spices like cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala creates layers of flavor that are distinct and memorable. Complemented by traditional Indian breads and beverages such as mango lassi, the meal becomes a journey through India’s gastronomic landscape. This makes Royal India Express not only a place to enjoy sumptuous food but also an opportunity for friends and family to engage with a vibrant culture, fostering greater appreciation and curiosity through the universal language of good food.