Padma Palace

Perched on the 2nd floor of a building near Nezu Shrine, Padma Palace is an unpretentious Indian restaurant that comes in handy for a hearty lunch or an easy everyday meal. The lunchtime set menus include refills of naan or rice, and the kitchen will happily provide half portions upon request, making it simple to tailor the meal to your appetite without feeling overloaded.

The curry lineup covers plenty of ground, spanning familiar chicken and daal through to savory mutton curry, sweet and rich butter chicken, and fragrant chicken-and-spinach blends. Heat levels can be tailored to individual tastes, ranging from gently spiced and mild to assertive and fiery. Alongside fluffy, freshly charred plain naan, the restaurant bakes a cheese naan prized for its mellow richness and subtle sweetness, designed to stand up to the thicker gravies.

For diners wanting a heartier meat spread, options like the Stamina Set and Special Set round out the table with chicken tikka, seekh kebabs, and tandoori chicken. To balance the spices, a cool plain or mango lassi offers refreshing contrast between bites, while a cup of hot spiced tea (chai) leaves a soothing finish.

The relaxed interior makes solo diners feel right at home across its table seating. Padma Palace also packs takeout bento meals, serving as a convenient stop whether you choose to linger over curry indoors or pick up lunch while exploring the shitamachi neighborhood.