I had heard about Aravind through some other Toronto food blogs, which said it was a refreshing change to Toronto's many Indian restaurants. Aravind, smack in the middle of Greektown, may not look like it based on the rather rustic decor -- aside from turquoise sponge painted walls not much stands out -- but it's higher end than those staple butter chicken and naan type places. If you're looking for share plates or either of those classics, Aravind is not the place. Instead, the restaurant specializes in lighter Southern Indian fare from the Kerala state --which means, basically, fish and vegetables are the crux of pescetarian menu that focuses on local ingredients.
I thought it was a nice change to see fresh local seafood paired with rich Indian flavours. However, my Indian friend that I went with was not too enthusiastic about her chicken choice at Aravind (she's Punjabi and not a fan of the southern fare).
Although it's also a bit pricier than your traditional Indian spot --mains are about $20 -- it offers a whole array of accompaniments from a lentil crisp and cassava chip snack to the amuse bouche in between courses. The first was a delightful cold version of a chana masala, a spoonful of chickpeas, with coriander, cumin onion and yogourt. I wish this was on the actual menu. The second amuse bouche which came between appetizers and mains was a shock to the palette, melon topped with a severe amount of ginger-- definitely cleansing!
The triad of dosas we had as an appetizer just made me wish there was more, though you can't order dinner size portions of the two I liked the best. Okay to split, just for a taste. The thin rice and lentil crepes are filled with either tumeric onions and potatoes (which you can order as a main), an eggplant bharta type filling, and my favourite filling of squash and lentils. A side of spicy tomato chutney accompanies.
For a main, I chose the Lake Huron pickerel ($21) with a gingery tomato coconut curry sauce, somewhat reminiscent of a butter chicken sauce. It came with sides of basmati and thoran (sort of an Indian version of coleslaw. The three pieces of fish were delicately cooked, though not thoroughly de-boned, and the sauce complimented it well. Presentation is not the greatest but the portion size was filling for a creative and perfectly cooked fish plate.
Overall, I'd recommend for seafood lovers, but not those seeking the curry house style Indian food they're more used to.
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