Rasoi Indian Pavilion: A Hidden Gem in Fort Greene Brooklyn

PERMANENTLY CLOSED

There are some evenings when all you want is a quiet escape—great food, a well-made drink, and an atmosphere that allows you to unwind. One such night, I found myself in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, searching for that exact experience. My usual go-to, Cornerstone, was closed, which left me aimlessly strolling down Dekalb Avenue, hoping to stumble upon something special. What I found was Rasoi Indian Pavilion, an unassuming Indian restaurant that, at first glance, seemed almost too quiet.

Would the food be good? Why wasn’t the place packed? Despite my initial hesitation, something about the ambiance drew me in. And, as I would soon find out, this little Indian spot would become one of my go-to restaurants in Brooklyn.

• Location: 235 Dekalb Avenue—Fort Greene
  [B/T Clermont & Vanderbilt Avenue]
• Telephone: (7180 399-1306
• Website: Rasoi Indian Pavilion
• Hours: Mondays – Thursdays noon – 3:30 PM. Lunch & Dinner 5 – 10:30 PM
  Fridays – Saturdays 12 – 11 PM and Sundays 1 – 10:30 PM

A Quiet, Cozy Ambiance

Stepping inside Rasoi Indian Pavilion, I was immediately enveloped in a sense of calm. The decor wasn’t extravagant, but it was welcoming. White tablecloths covered each table, Indian music played softly in the background, and dim lighting created a romantic, intimate feel. It was the kind of setting that would be ideal for a couple’s night out, yet I was dining alone—and it was perfect for me that night.

There were only two couples dining when I walked in, and while some might see that as a red flag, I found it reassuring. Sometimes, the best restaurants are the ones that locals prefer to keep to themselves.

An Order That Changed Everything

I wasn’t particularly craving Indian food that night, but something about the simplicity of the space made me stay. One looked at the menu and I decided on the shrimp curry. I ordered a glass of Rosé, Goan shrimp curry, plain Naan bread, and mango chutney. While I wasn’t expecting much, from the first bite, I was hooked.

The Goan shrimp curry was rich and flavorful, perfectly spiced without being overwhelming. The shrimp were fresh, tender, and bathed in a velvety coconut-based sauce that had the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The Naan was soft, warm, and slightly crispy on the edges—ideal for scooping up every last bit of the curry. And the mango chutney? An impeccable touch of sweetness that elevated every bite.

While the food was incredible, what stood out just as much was the service. The staff was somber yet attentive, ensuring that my glass was never empty and that I had everything I needed. They weren’t overly chatty, which suited me just fine. I was content, sipping my wine, savoring my meal, and diving into a book I had started a few days ago.

I had planned to stay until around 11 PM, lost in the world of my novel, but I soon discovered that Rasoi Indian Pavilion closes between 10 and 10:30 PM. That was my only disappointment for the night—I would have happily lingered longer in that peaceful setting.

Why Isn’t It Always Packed?

For a restaurant serving such incredible food, I was surprised that the Rasoi Indian Pavilion wasn’t filled with diners. But after visiting a few more times, I realized the reason—it’s not that people don’t love it. It’s that Fort Greene locals seem to prefer ordering in. Throughout my meal, I noticed the staff constantly going in and out with delivery orders. This place had a dedicated following, just one that preferred enjoying their meals from the comfort of home.

That explained why the restaurant was rarely packed, despite its stellar Yelp reviews and consistently delicious food.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Having now visited Rasoi Indian Pavilion multiple times, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic spot for various dining experiences.

• Large Crowds: If you’re dining with a group, the spacious seating and attentive service make it an excellent choice. Plus, the portion sizes are generous, making it easy to share dishes.
• Date Night: The cozy ambiance, dim lighting, and soft Indian music make this an ideal setting for a romantic evening.
• Family-Friendly Dining: The casual, welcoming vibe makes it a great option if you have kids in tow. The menu has plenty of mild options for younger palates.
• Lunch Spot: If you work or live nearby, their lunch menu is a steal. The special lunch deals offer great value without compromising on quality.

Authentic, Well-Priced, and Never Disappointing

One of the standout aspects of Rasoi Indian Pavilion is its authenticity. Many Indian restaurants lean into heavy, greasy dishes that leave you feeling overly full, but that’s not the case here. The food is rich and satisfying, but never carelessly oily. The spices are well-balanced, and every dish feels thoughtfully prepared.

Their menu covers all the Indian staples—curries, tandoori dishes, biryanis—but also includes some regional specialties that you won’t find at every Indian spot in Brooklyn. And the best part? The prices are reasonable for the quality of food you’re getting.

As for the dress code, there isn’t one. Whether you’re in casual attire or dressed up for an occasion, you’ll feel comfortable here.

Eleven Months Later, Still in Love Rasoi Indian Pavilion

Almost a year has passed since that first visit, and Rasoi Indian Pavilion has become a regular spot for me. I’ve worked my way through a good portion of their menu, and not once have I been disappointed. Some of my personal favorites now include:

• Chicken Tikka Masala: A classic dish, but their version is one of the best I’ve had in Brooklyn. Creamy, packed with flavor, and perfectly cooked chicken.
• Lamb Rogan Josh: A must-try if you love bold, hearty flavors. The lamb is tender, and the slow-cooked sauce is deeply aromatic.
• Vegetable Biryani: Light yet flavorful, this dish is a great choice if you’re looking for something filling but not too heavy.
• Garlic Naan: The best companion to any curry on their menu. Slightly crispy, buttery, and full of garlic flavor.

Final Thoughts: Rasoi Indian Pavilion—A Must-Try in Fort Greene

If you’re in Brooklyn and love Indian food—or even if you’re just curious about trying something new—Rasoi Indian Pavilion should be on your list. It’s one of those places that doesn’t rely on flashy decor or hype; instead, it lets the food speak for itself.

It’s a hidden gem that offers:

✅ Authentic, high-quality Indian cuisine
✅ Generous portion sizes
✅ A peaceful, cozy ambiance
✅ Reasonable prices
✅ Excellent service

If you prefer dining in, you’ll enjoy a quiet, relaxed meal. If you’d rather stay in, their delivery service ensures you can experience their incredible flavors from home. Either way, it’s a win.

So why not give it a try? Whether you’re a longtime Brooklyn local or just visiting, Rasoi Indian Pavilion in Fort Green Brooklyn is a restaurant that deserves your attention. And if you do try it, let me know—what do you think?