Since I last posted about Stan’s Donuts, I figured this would be a good time to write about a vegetarian Indian restaurant located in former donut shop. Housed in what was a Winchell’s Donuts on the corner of Washington Blvd. and Overland Ave., Samosa House East is a vast improvement over the previous owner. Samosa House heartily embraces vegans, as many of their dishes do not use butter nor cream.

As you enter the restaurant, you will see a giant steam table, offering several different selections. The most popular choice is to choose a plate with rice, naan (plain or garlic) or chapati or pappadams, yogurt and three entrees.

There are so many tasty offerings, that it can be difficult to make up your mind (at least it is for me). My personal favorite is the charcoal smoked cauliflower which has a wonderful flavor to it. I usually opt for saag (spinach) and if it’s available, the jackfruit just because it’s such a novelty. Jackfruit is said to be a good meat substitute since the texture is quite meaty. I’m not sure I agree, but it’s something different. I’d probably place it lower on my must-try list.

My husband enjoys the veggie chicken entrees they have as they taste like meat. There’s a BBQ version which has quite a kick to it.

I also appreciate that the naan is cooked to order, even though you may have to wait a few minutes for it to be ready.

My daughter, who has yet to appreciate the joys of Indian food, loves eating naan. She’ll eat something else at home first before we come here.

While you could probably eat an all-you-can-eat buffet at other restaurants for about the same price, Samosa House is my preferred Indian restaurant because the food doesn’t feel as heavy as other Indian restaurants and doesn’t cause me to fall into a food coma for the rest of the day. If you’re looking for a big bang for your buck, go somewhere else, but if you’re looking for a quick, tasty Indian meal that won’t weigh you down, Samosa House is the place for you.

Location 10700 Washington Blvd., Culver City 90232. There’s an additional location in Culver City (the original one) complete with a market and one in Silverlake and a recently opened location in Santa Monica.
Website – http://www.samosahouse.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Pesco-Vegetarian Friendly – Yes
Vegan/Vegetarian Friendly – YES!!!!
Gluten-Free Options – Yes