[12/18/2018 Editor’s Note: Yogi’s is permanently closed]

Yogi’s Indian Cafe & Market, located at 2537 N. Stone Ave., is a hidden gem where you can chow down on versions of familiar Indian dishes or try something completely new.

The trellised bougainvilleas and hand-painted sign are a welcome sight along an otherwise sleepy stretch of Stone Avenue. The minimalist decor is punctuated by bright silk flowers on the tables and a large, beautiful photograph of a peacock feather on the back wall of the dining room.

Yogi’s offers many classic Indian dishes popular on U.S. restaurant menus, while also specializing in vegan options and street food.

The extensive menu includes classics like samosas, curries, aloo gobi, tandoori chicken, and lassis — frothy yogurt shakes available in plain and mango flavors. Unusual options are also available, such as Himalayan dumplings called “momos” and Calcutta-style kathi rolls (paratha flatbreads wrapped around chickpeas, paneer cheese, or a selection of meats).

To sample Yogi’s Indian Cafe’s  interpretation of familiar dishes, as well as new flavors, start with vegan samosas ($3.99), followed by chicken momos ($8.99) and chicken tikka masala ($9.99).

The exceptional samosas are available mild, medium, spicy, or extra spicy with a trio of dipping sauces: mint, tamarind, and a carrot-colored tomato sauce that takes over two hours to make. The dough is thick and crispy and stuffed to the brim with potato and pea filling with a peppery zing.  They’re generously-sized and an excellent value at two per order.

Next were the momos. These steamed dumplings were filled with minced, seasoned chicken and served with the same delightful tomato sauce that came with the samosas. Momos originated in Tibet, but have become popular in parts of Himalayan India including Sikkim State, Darjeeling, and Dharamsala due to the Tibetan diaspora, and the subsequent increase of Tibetans in those areas. They’re a light, delicious treat that gives a nod to northern India’s many and varied culinary traditions.

The chicken tikka masala was served with basmati rice, garnished with an eggplant pickle. The rice and chicken were well-cooked and the tomato-filled masala sauce satisfying, albeit mild gluten-free option.

For dessert try ras malai ($2.99), three cheesecake-like sweet cheese balls stuffed with saffron and pistachios and soaked in cardamom-spiced cream. These were generously portioned and featured an airy texture with an extra hint of cardamom.

Yogi’s offers over twenty vegan and gluten free dishes, making it a good choice for diners with those dietary restrictions. They also serve a daily lunch buffet from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Beer, wine, coffee, and tea are also available.

The front market offers Indian clothing and jewelry, as well as bulk spices, dry goods, and popular Indian produce, including okra, fresh ginger, and bitter melon. Yogi’s selection of South Asian groceries make it worth a trip for home cooks as well. Another plus is that they accept SNAP/EBT for groceries.

Yogi’s Indian Cafe & Market is located at 2537 N. Stone Ave. For more information, call Yogi’s at (520) 303-3525.