Chaya

About Chaya

Chaya serves Indian food on Banff Avenue without the tourist markup most restaurants here push. The kitchen treats spices seriously instead of mellowing everything down for visitors. You get straightforward curries, tandoori preparations, and breads that actually matter, made by people who know what they're doing.

Order the lamb vindaloo if you want heat that registers. The paneer dishes hold up well, and the naan comes out properly charred. Portions are generous enough that you don't need to order three courses to feel full. The dining room is small and straightforward. Nothing fancy, which is exactly the point.

Book ahead on weekends since the space fills up fast and they don't take large parties. The trade-off is that a small kitchen means service moves at its own pace during peak hours. This works best when you're hungry and not watching the clock. Skip this in summer peak season if you want a quiet meal without the crowd noise bouncing off the walls.