After a long wait, Neela Paniz‘s Neela‘s restaurant opens ... I had a chance to…taste a sample of the food and atmosphere. It‘s an attractive space with art that suggests Indian culture without retreating into the Raj. The food is mostly lighter version of favorites adapted to local ingredients and tastes without compromising tradition. We nibbled off each others‘ plates and intermixed tastes so much that I‘m looking forward to returning and enjoying a real meal, but suffice to say, there are many treasures there for any fan of India‘s many cuisines (as I am). The menu includes many vegetarian dishes as well as those with meat and fish, and I bet the kitchen could make some of the other items vegetarian if you asked. I covered the offerings in the March 16 NapaLife. Prices are reasonable, too. We didn‘t get a chance to try them, but the Lunch Thalis, complete meals on a plate, sound especially interesting. The wine list features wines that go particularly well with the well-spiced and sometimes fiery food. Prices are reasonable—some wines $7 by the glass, and bottles from $22 to mid fifties for excellent Napa Cabs (Champagne is more, but Prosecco is only $27). I‘d be tempted by the beers, in all honesty. Napa Smith Pale Ale, one of my favorites, and Stella Artois are on tap, but they do have three Indian beers, too. I‘d call before heading for dinner, as I‘m sure many people will want to be among the first to satisfy their Indian-food deprivation. 226-9988. Also, Thursday is [Locals’] Bread Night with a selection of stuffed Indian flat breads including unleavened rotis, shallow - fried parathas, deep - fried purris, and baked naan. Served with salads and raita, spiced yogurt containing cucumbers or other vegetables. The prices will be $6 to $10. Neela‘s Restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, and dinner, Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, 5 to 9:30 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, until 10 p.m.
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