The chow: The menu is entirely vegetarian, but you won't miss the meat. The side dishes constitute a meal by themselves. The dal makhani (lentils in a buttery sauce; $5.99) is my wife's favorite. The aloo gobi ($4.99) is another must-try, featuring tender cauliflower and potatoes in a robustly spiced sauce.
For dessert, make room for rasgullas (cheese curds and semolina dough cooked in sugar syrup), which aren't usually available at restaurants. Two pieces are $2.99.
Real deal: The daily special ($5.99) is a can't-miss. It comes with the vegetable of the day, rice, raita (yogurt-based sauce) and a pickle (a vegetable cooked in oil and spices). The Maharani Thali ($8.99) provides dal makhani, the vegetable of the day, rice, roti (buttery flatbread), raita and a pickle.
Hangout factor: There are a few tables at the cafe, but the space is not designed for a leisurely meal. It's best to order takeout and enjoy the food at home.
Liquids: Three different lassis (frothy yogurt drinks): mango ($2.49), sweetened ($1.99) and masala ($1.99). Definitely try the chai (99 cents). It's perfectly spiced, fresh and hot.
Inside tip: Order your food first if you plan to shop or buy some sweets to take home. That way, you can pay for all your goodies at once.
The numbers: 16205 N.W. Bethany Court, Suite 110, Beaverton; 503-690-0499; kitchen hours are Tues.-Sun. 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. The kitchen is closed on Mondays.
