An Outstanding Plan B: Rangoli

Everybody knows that you're supposed to go to Vij's when you're in Vancouver.

But that's the problem. Everybody knows this. Vij's doesn't take reservations, so everybody shows up right when the doors open at 5:30. See?

Sadly, we missed admission by just two parties. Damn it. We are resourceful monkeys, though. We knew this might happen, and we were prepared with a backup plan.

Once we were denied entrance, we literally ran next door to Rangoli, the casual sister restaurant to Vij's.

If you don't make it into Vij's, run -- don't walk -- to Rangoli (not just because Rangoli is awesome but because all the other Vij's rejects will be doing the same)! Order a mango pineapple lassi (CAN $4.50) and a ginger lemon drink (CAN $4.00), and be happy that your Plan B is in effect!

Naan. Beautiful naan.

Almost fluffy in texture -- something I've never experienced in my naan consumption! Fantastic!

Lamb, beef, and lentil kebabs with date-tamarind chutney (CAN $8.75).

A perfectly charred, meaty, juicy way to start! Made us happy that we ran!

Lamb in cumin and light cream curry with salad, rice, and naan (CAN $14.50).

Tender, mild, and smooth. Delicious.

Goat meat and jackfruit curry with coconut cabbage salad, rice, and naan (CAN $15.50).


Not gamy at all! Like Indian birria! Win!

Rice pudding with almonds and cardamom (CAN $5.50).

A very nice and refreshing kheer. Just sweet enough.

Meeti roti -- custard on chapati filled with demerara sugar and cashews (CAN $5.50).

Interesting dessert that we'd never had before. The lovechild of flatbread and baklava!

We were sad not to have tasted the wonders of Vij's, but we were so pleased with our meal at Rangoli. Our wallets were pleased, too.