Saffron NOLA

What a great place! Had the pickled appetizer, which was delicious. Then we had the vindaloo and garlic naan. Such a great combination of flavors. The cocktails were delicious and creative. Also a lovely wine list. I also want to note how kind the people who do reservations are. Give them a call! They will try to make a reservation work and even call day of it if an opening happens. A favorite!

One of the best meals we’ve ever had. The curried seafood gumbo was absolutely delicious. We had several of the Roti Sathi bread companions and the eggplant Hyderabad was my favorite there. Finished with the Chicken Biriyani, which by the way was a very good portion! Great wine list too. In my opinion a absolute must for a Nola trip.

I was here on April 20, 2018. I sat at the bar since I didn’t make a reservation but this place was packed. I had the Bombay shrimp and Chicken Biriyani. Both were delicious. Bartender was attentive. She gave me recommendations for beer and cocktails which were to my liking. The owner was present and attentive to customers and staff. He came over and asked if my meal and drinks were made to my liking. Definitely yes they were. Great place. Friendly staff and owner. Will come back for more on my next trip to NOLA.

One of the best indian fusion places I have seen in the country. Pakodas are a dream and chutneys are packed with flavors from home. Kulfi topped the charts.

+4

This place is amazing. Everything I ordered was from the specials menu, but it was prepared immaculately so I don't doubt the quality of the regular menu. The flavors and textures complemented each other perfectly. I was only in town for two nights, was recommended this place, and it did not disappoint.

You have to try this place. It might not be natural as you come to visit New Orleans to go to an indian restaurant but we cannot stop thinking about this meal. The restaurant is nice and service is good overall but the food steals the show. We would highly recommend to get the shrimp and chicken appetizers. You HAVE to get the chicken biryani, it’s incredible.

Saffron NOLA is amazing! My boyfriend and I went here for date night to see what all the hype was about and it did not disappoint! We started with their signature cocktails which are all unique and very tasty. Char-broiled oysters and crab meat pudha for appetizers, pork vindaloo and lamb chops for entrees and lastly the “kiss from a rose” for dessert. It was all spectacular and the wait staff was very informative and friendly. We thoroughly enjoyed the night.

The oyster bed roast, roti, charcuterie, and vindaloo were out of this world. They have a very creative drink menu, and the service was top notch. If you are looking for creative, high-end Indian fare this should be high on your list.

I returned to this location after a long time and still the service level was on point and my guests (picky eaters) loved the food and enjoyed the flavors without getting overwhelmed. Older review: It's nice and unique. Don't expect this to be your regular Indian food. It is a fusion Indian food. I think service was great and food tasted flavorful.

Fantastic food and experience! We had the bartender make all of our selections and it was the perfect move. Paul(fabulous mullet and mustache) and Colin(wants to be just like Paul) were in sink and took care of us. We will absolutely return to Saffron!

Food was amazing! Smaller portions but everything is well thought out and delicious. Service was good as well, only ding was we were there 5 minutes early and I wish they would have let my elderly grandma come wait inside out of the nola heat. Pictured is the gulf fish dish.

Wow! It's only been open for a couple of weeks and they are hitting it out of the park every night. It's like visiting the Vilkhu family's fancy dining room where their family hospitality comes through in every way possible. The food is amazing, the service, the vibe are all just perfect. The menu hits a home run, balancing the tight rope of authentic Indian with modern playful twists without going overboard. The passion is apparent in every aspect. Not only is it the best Indian restaurant in town, it could very well be the best restaurant in town. When you are there, try the cocktails, they are just incredible. You can't go wrong with any of them, my favorite was the Atonement. On the dinner menu, don't miss the oysters - they are overwhelming, the charcuterie is delicious. Whether you are vegetarian or not, you must try the roti saathi - and you will get a delicious sampling of India with some fresh bread. On the mains - the vindaloo and the lamb chops are my personal favorites. The lamb chops is the only dish that migrated from the West Bank because it's so darn good. And, don't leave without dessert, the kulfi is presented with some rice noodles and rose syrup.... mmmm. If you are a chocolate lover - they have a yummy option for you too. We loved it so much we went back for cocktails the next night. Enjoy!

+2

Some of the absolute best food I've ever had and best Indian food for sure. Such a nice experience. Sat at the bar and the bartender and other staff was exceptional as well.

+1

I saw Saffron NOLA in a NYT article complementing the restaurant on how well they combined Cajun and Indian cuisine. I was immediately interested given my love for both types of food and absolutely had to go. I was not disappointed in the slightest. The drink I had was I See Stars and was a delightful spicy sweet mix of flavors topped with a gorgeous star anise (the orange drink). As a main dish I had the tandori shrimp which was blackened to perfection and on an utterly tasty bed of coleslaw garnished in a light yet savory green chile sauce. Our server was polite, friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and the impeccable design of the restaurant made for a wonderful evening. I absolutely will be back

Genuinely some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life. My friends and I haven’t stopped talking about it, drinks were amazinggg too. The service was great and the restaurant itself is very cute. Prime place for an excellent dinner and unforgettable experience.

Delicious modern Indian food. Naan is the best I have ever had, especially the garlic. Served hot and and were flavorful and a great accompaniment to the naan. Entrees were abundant and delicious. We had several items and all were equally delicious. Service was friendly and helpful. Highly recommend.

+2

Not your "comfort fare" type place with a large saucy menu of standard Indian fare. However, the food and atmosphere are sublime. The pork vindaloo was the most delicious vindaloo I have ever had. The masala was equally amazing and I only wish it was offered as a main course. I would recommend it for a fancy night out and s flavor profile not easily found in New Orleans. Cocktails also on POINT.

+2

We came here at the recommendation of our friend’s boss. We all agreed that it was the best food that we had had in New Orleans so far. The squash in particular was spectacular.

+3

A new favorite has been added to my ever-growing list of Magazine Street gems. From start to finish this restaurant was excellent on all fronts. I waited until Thursday to make a Saturday night reservation, and only the earliest and latest seatings were available, so book in advance if you're going on a weekend. Nick, who answered the phone when I called to make reservations, was very helpful, offering to call if another reservation time opened up, which it did. Inside it's enjoyably lowlit and quite noisy at the height of its seating capacity. It quieted down as the dinner rush ended. There is a single women's room and a single men's room, no stalls, so the bathroom can have a bit of a wait. Our server was Debra and I have nothing but praise for her ability, attitude, and genuine enthusiasm about the menu items she described for us. We started with cocktails, Bombay shrimp, and curried seafood gumbo. Their cocktail menu is noteworthy. I would return solely for drinks. The two starters were delicious, and Debra kindly separated our single order of gumbo into two bowls for our convenience. We had goat curry and lamb chops for our main course, both very good, but we were more impressed by the cocktails, starters, and truffle naan than the main courses. For dessert, we had mango sorbet and bread pudding, both imaginatively flavorful. We originally ordered the chocolate pot de crème, but when the staff realized the last one was ordered just ahead of us, they very apologetically explained the situation (I mean, Very apologetically). We told them it was no problem at all, we had been indecisive on the desserts anyway, but they insisted on comping the substitution. The menu is small but varied and I fully intend to try everything on it in my inevitable future visits. I highly recommend this unique, delightful restaurant!

+2

We had a wonderful experience at Saffron Nola. The staff was excellent - very accommodating and extremely friendly. The drink menu is impressive, and the bartender is great. The I See Stars cocktail is a house made recipe and is a real showstopper. Definitely recommend it. The food was excellent and the atmosphere was wonderful. Overjoyed. If you’re in town give it a shot.

WOW! Popped in here when my intended destination was full and I was not disappointed! The entire staff was TOP NOTCH and the meal was PHENOMENAL!! Dinner was garlic Naan, Oyster Bed Roast and Kyber Lamb Chops paired with a 2018 La Jota Cabernet Franc, 94+. Without wine, meal was less than $100 and could easily be shared. Highly recommend and will be back on my next trip to NOLA!

This. meal. was. PERFECT. My friends and I came here interested in the fusion and the family history, and left as devotees. Every step of the meal was amazing. From the green salad with a spiced watermelon, to the cocktails, and absolutely inclusive of the lamb chops… it was our best meal this trip, and a reason to visit New Orleans itself.

Lived up to all the hype! Excellently seasoned food and beautiful presentation. The bouillabaisse special was especially delicious. I can’t imagine these dishes in better form, we will definitely be back. I had a cocktail, which was okay - not as good as Shaya’s right across the street.

Favorite meal in Nola during my trip this weekend, and I’m feeling so lucky that this was the last and by far the best meal. We walked in on Saturday evening without reservations and were seated at the bar. Something I’ve learned over the years is not to sleep on the bar - you usually get great service and this was no exception. We enjoyed the cocktails as much as the food, and the Junglee (jungli) Bird and Anti Inflammatory were great. JB is good for those who appreciate sweet, tropical drinks with lovely passion fruit and mint. The anti inflammatory was AMAZING, would not think of combining cognac plus turmeric coconut milk but now I can’t see it without! The drink was topped with chili oil and cilantro, which worked out well. Menu is small but offers a nice variety of both north and south (Indian) flavors from chicken lasooni to biryani, but also some Louisiana influence as well. The shrimp curry was yet another hit, the best cooked shrimp I’ve ever had, so juicy and tender, so fresh it tasted like it was pulled out of the water! I like how it has a fried curry leaf on top of the rice, I felt like I was in Goa. Almost wanted to try every item on the dessert menu but we settled for the Kiss from a Rose and masala chai. Can never turn down kulfi and it was beautiful mixed with rose syrup and vermicelli, toasted pistachios.

+2

Saffron is a unique New Orleans dining experience. This evening was our 24th anniversary. I wanted a meal that would stand out with my wife. Saffron was a joy. The amazing waitperson read our minds. We wanted an evening of small plates and lots of flavors. She looked at us and said, "I got this". A 1/2 dozen broiled oysters came soon after. Amazing. A round of great cocktails came between courses to keep our palettes engaged. Next was the "Aloo Tiffin Chaat" this delightful vegetarian dish is presented and built at the table. A truly pleasant experience. Finally, we split an entree of fish with Naan. Everything was amazing. The waitstaff at all turns made sure we wanted for nothing. It was a wonderful evening. Thanks to saffron!!

Lovely dinner, great service, and nice atmosphere. Started with the salmon pani puri - my least favorite of the meal, but still worth a try. Main course was shrimp curry and garlic naan.

We went there to celebrate my wife’s birthday. The place is one of the fine high end Indian restaurant. The collection of wine and liquor was enormous. The food was to die for. So tasty with Cajun fusion and the service was remarkable. I would definitely recommend this place. The only suggestion that I would make is that the chicken biryani should be served with raita. Everyone should try this place when in New Orleans. These guys are really following the COVID guidelines.

+6

We had heard about Saffron from media as the chef and restaurant featured in news . To begin with I would say Chef is creative in the way most of the dishes are presented and named. Some very traditional and homely propalar dishes named fancy!! :) Coming to flavors and cooking . I liked it . Tried the Bombay Shrimp and chicken laaoongi for appetizers. Bombay shrimp is a shrimp pakoda (fried shrimp) in chickpea batter seasoned with fenugreek and has onions in it .. this means when you look at the menu these are back to back 2 pakoras dishes . Chicken lassoni on the other hand is highly recommended. Well seasoned and cooked . The spices are just right to give you flavors burst in our mouth. For main course we ordered goat masala, lamb chops and a Naan. Goat masala is super delish took me back home in flavors memories.. my mom makes goat masala like this the masala(gravy) is well roasted and cooked goat is well marinated and cooked to meat is super tender . This is a bone-in dish and every piece had marrow in it and that’s the part you use hands to eat this dish .. loved it . My wife’s paired this with Naan which was also done well . I would suggest they introduce Tandoori roti or parantha to their menu as there are people like me who are not big fans of Nan . The lamb chops were well made soft juicy full of flavor, served on a base of Rogan josh curry and a very interesting pair or khichadi ( rice cooked with lentils) khichadi has a Desi Ghee tadka (spicing process where heated ghee is used with spices to add more flavor) never had a khichadi with goat .. some people like it for me personally I don’t think these both go together . We ordered sticky toffee carrot halwa for dessert . Well this dish is NO carrot halwa at all don’t know why they named this one halwa .. this is a date cake topped with a fig icecream it is delicious both the cake and the fig icecream . The way fig icecream is made is also a very old fruit ice cream recipe I could relate to which I have had on streets of Delhi or Jaipur in India. The true test of the menu would have been the Dal but unfortunately we had stuffed our selves on ved to try any of the 4 vegetarian dishes on their menu. The place is Pricy but , not a big restaurant so don’t forget to reserve a table . Definitely not a regular Indian restaurant so don’t go with an expectation that you are going I for Indian food .. this is a fusion menu done well.

+6

Everything was so good! We had a few different drinks and they were all unique and very tasty. Ordered the gumbo, shrimp curry, and a special Tikka masala and they were all delicious.

+4

Wonderful food, ambiance and drinks! Great hospitality. Oyster was one of a kind (the good kind 😉). Naan was so soft and tasty, one of the best I’ve had. Biryani lacked a little flavour, but everything else was on point! Must try in NOLA.

+3

Saffron was absolutely incredible!! Our waitress walked us through the menu with such detail and enthusiasm to help us choose the perfect meal. The New Money drink is WILD! A must have. Everything was fresh and fun spins on Indian favorites with a New Orleans flair. It was also a great opportunity to come through a different neighborhood after spending most of our business trip in the French Quarter and Conference Center. I am going to dream about this meal for years to come.

+3

Saffron is an Indian restaurant that serves great food and is not too spicy. The chicken biriyani was to die for (that's a soft boiled egg on top). The lamb chops are prepared in rum. Medium rare was a little too rare for my taste; next time, I'll order them medium.

This restaurant is a fusion of cajun and Indian food and it is PERFECT 🙌 So very unique. Their cocktails are amazing as well. I loved the atmosphere, especially the low lighting. There's an open window that allows you to watch the cooks in action. Super friendly and professional Staff.. Great experience!

+4

Me and my husband we both dont eat meat but we really wanted to visit this place even though they had limited veg options and I am glad we didn't miss having food here when in NoLA. Everything about this place was wonderful. We had our reservation and we went there before time. We didn't get our table on time since this place was completely full but they accommodated us on bar meanwhile. The bartender was also nice and served us with fancy drinks. We tried the New kid on the block,raw silk and Saffron nola old fashioned. Every drink was fancy and well made. We tried Paneer pudla (asked the server if they can make anything in veg in appetizers and they recommended this dish) it was nice, it's paneer wrapped around pudla topped with chutneys. In mains we tried tandoori squash and Baigan bharta and trust me I was happy to try something different instead of paneer. The tandoori squash was perfectly smoked and was surprisingly really tasty and the baigan bharta was delightful. We had "kiss from a rose" in desserts and it was just melting in our mouth. Definitely worth trying it. This restaurant is bit on a higher end but its definitely worth it!! Would highly recommend visiting this place atleast once. I am definitely going there again😉

+5

Great flavors and Indian take. Goat Masala was the table fave, the chicken appetizer very good, and the dessert did not disappoint, especially "The Kiss From the Rose" as you may see.📷📷📷

+6

Truly in the top 3 food experiences of my lifetime. My girlfriend and I came here while on vacation, and we're honored to also meet the Chef. Thank you Diki for taking the time to share your passion and unique restaurant with us we were already beyond impressed, but meeting you made it a more lasting memory. I hope the best for your family and continued success in NOLA. To anyone reading this if you want to try a classy, fun, unique take on food and cultures do not hold back when you come here. Order from the unique cocktails and food items. We also tried the oysters, lamb, and desert. I won't try to convey or explain this experience as it will not meet the level it deserves. Just take the chance and enjoy.

+1

My wife and I turned up, on a Friday night, with no reservation. So, it was a minor miracle that we had a table within 15 minutes! We started with the cauliflower fritters with - by far - the best mint chutney we have ever tasted, and also the Bombay shrimp which was excellent. My wife also had a mocktail - mango, mint and lime - which she thoroughly enjoyed. For our main courses we had the vegetarian roasted eggplant and the Khyber lamb chops with a Tandoori sauce and slow-cooked, buttered rice. We also had a truffle Naan. To finish, my wife had the sticky toffee pudding with fig ice cream and berries, and I had the candy mousse, along with a decent press coffee (Illy). It was all absolutely excellent. The service was excellent too. Our server, Lo, was helpful and attentive without being pushy. My only complaint was the noise: The place is so loud and my ears are still ringing an hour later.

+3

So happy I got to try Saffron Nola. Each dish had an abundant yet unique flavor. Food was served warm. The naan bread was super fresh and savory. The tandoori chicken with the pickled onions and the sauce was so delicious. Everything we ordered was full of flavor and really tasty. The restaurant is super clean. Service was good. They definitely get a 5 star rating.

+6

This was our first time here and we would definitely go back. The cocktail was delicious, my chicken biriyani was amazing and portion was generous and the dessert was perfect. It was my birthday so our server brought out my dessert with a lit candle. My husband and I agree that the service makes you feel like a VIP. You should visit Saffron.

Me and my friend dine in yesterday everthing was good from start to end from the host seating to service at the end .we order the lasuni chicken in apt the chicken was perfectly seasoned and cooked to the perfection .the staff were very attentive and professional.the ambience was great also the dessert chaitiramisu and triple chocolate was delicious. They have a good whiskey selection. They take good care of guest .

Heavenly. Mouthwatering. Delicious. If you like Indian food this is the place for you. Everything about this place is fantastic. The drinks are unique and smooth. The meats are tender and seasoned with perfection. The mood vibe is great, but can get a tad loud at times. The bussers and manager were around often and quickly bringing water and whatever we asked for. There wasn’t a morsel of food left at the table. It’s bowl licking good - but definitely just use the naan to soak it all up. I will say, the service by our waiter was subpar. He was consistently hard to find which was interesting considering so many other employees were clearing plates, refilling glasses etc. If you can get past that and have time to spare, this is a must try.

+6

Great food. Lots of flavors and textures. Comfortable place. The only issue was it was a little loud to talk. Great drinks. Overall, highly recommend

+6

We could not have been more impressed with the food and presentation here at Saffron! Over our whole trip this was the best place we ate. The food is so fresh and the flavors mix perfectly. It's not true Indian food, but the flavor combinations and contemporary American take works incredibly well. Highly recommend the salmon pani puri and the Khyber lamb chops!

+4

Incredible dinner! Had a dinner by myself for the first time in a while. Sat at the bar as there was space. (If you want a table, get a resy!) Paul was an amazing bartender. Lots of TLC for the drinks he made and the recommendations on the menu. The cocktail Blue Steel was out of this world. The flavors that hit through the entirety of a sip was truly mind blowing. Indian flair for sure which makes these cocktails so unique. Truly a must. Lamb Chops & Oysters were mind blowing. The sauce on the lamb chops was just amazing - comforting and delicious. This was perfect for the winter weather. The oysters are also so comforting. Flavors were unique and the texture profile was incredible from the crunch to the pillow texture of the naan. You should NOT skip this. I also had the gumbo and the squash which were so so yummy. The gumbo was more on the creole side - very tasty but I wouldn’t put it so high on the list. The squash was delightful - I would order this again as it was soft and bright with flavor. Saffron deserves its recognition across the board. CHEERS!

+6

Every bite was filled with a special combination of spices. Our server Gabriel was truly an Angel. I wasn’t feeling my best and he offered some raspberry tea with hot honey and lemon. It was tasty and helped to clear my stuffiness so I could truly enjoy my meal.

+6

I sat at the bar, customer service was impeccable and food was well worth the wait for the pork vindaloo. The Bombay shrimp was delicious! Drinks were solid and I highly recommend this spot and I will be returning.

+2

Easily a Top 10 Restaurant in New Orleans. Service is professional and quick. I’m not sure I’ve seen a restaurant with a higher server-to-table ratio. The drinks are outstanding. All have a unique spice or ingredient that elevates the classics and complements the menu flavors well. The food is phenomenal. Highly recommend the oysters and the chicken biriyani. Come with a group and try as many things as you can, you won’t be disappointed.

+4

A Stellar Culinary Surprise – A Must-Visit in NOLA I wandered into SAFFRON NOLA on a whim, and it turned out to be one of the best dining decisions I’ve made in a long time. Sat at the bar and was immediately welcomed by the warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive staff. Started off with a perfectly balanced gin cocktail — refreshing and expertly crafted — and it set the tone for the rest of the meal. The standout dish? The lamb vindaloo. Rich, flavorful, and cooked to absolute perfection. It had just the right amount of heat and depth, and every bite was a reminder of why this place has such a strong reputation. SAFFRON NOLA blends bold flavors with elegant execution, and the experience from start to finish was top-notch. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, don’t miss it — this place is something special.

What can I say. Wow!!!!!! First of all we were greeted by a very attentive waiter (didn’t catch his name) but he had long hair. He recommended some extremely tasty dishes and I’m so glad we went with what he suggested else we would have missed out on some of the best dishes on the menu. Highlights included the tandoori squash was a very clever and unique dish bursting with flavour with great texture. Went with a vegetarian group and left feeling satisfied due to the good amount of veg options. My only advice would be to not skip dessert - the sticky toffee pudding was unreal! The ginger crème brule came in a generous portion enough to share with the group The lead chef and owner was kind enough to meet with us and was a very nice guy Could not recommend enough!

+2

Wow. 10/10 experience with my party of 4. Highly recommend making reservations, online is accurate. The greetings, the venue, atmosphere were very elegant & cozy. We ordered (2) Apps, the Shrimp Bombay & Crab Pudha. (2) Main Khyber Lamb Chops & Chicken Biryani. The drinks really also tasty. The service was lovely. The owner greeted us out, overall it was a great dine.

It’s my very first time in New Orleans and so far this was hands down the best food we had at Saffron Nola. The Chicken Lasooni was so tender and flavorful that it was melting in my mouth and we also had the garlic naan with paneer, raita and dal makhani everything was so good. Will highly recommend this restaurant!

We had a truly exceptional experience. We arrived for an early dinner so we had a nice quiet atmosphere to start and by the time we left the place was pretty busy. We asked if the chef would be willing to do a tasting menu and he/they provided a phenomenal 6 course menu featuring everything we could hope for. The server was knowledgeable and had great explanations of the plates. It was one of my favorite date night experiences. Not to mention the drinks are sensational. The No money and the not a jazz brunch were both delicious, No Money being one of the best drinks I’ve ever had! Really couldn’t recommend it more.

It’s one of the best Indian food restaurants that I have visited in the US. The ambience is warm and the service is awesome. It’s not completely authentic Indian food but it’s a fusion that reminds us of Home. The vegetarian dishes are clearly marked and the staff is very friendly. Right from when we entered the restaurant, they were all welcoming with smiles and the server we had,Landon, he recommended all his favorites. He explained the dishes well when we asked for it. We got the orders pretty quick there was not much weight after we ordered till we got the food. They have a small section of menu, but every dish was perfect. In vegetarian dishes, I would recommend the potato chat, corn kurma with tandoori naan. The butternut squash starter was amazing along with the mango mint mocktail that they had. It’s slightly expensive, so be prepared to spend at least around $70 per person.

+2

What a unique place! Definitely get the tableside chaat. It's delicious! The wine selection is also top notch. We loved everything we tasted!

Amazing dining experience. Mr. Vilkhu came and spoke with us prior to being seated which shows how engaged this family is with regard to their establishment and the pride of ownership. We tried the Wok Gobi, Pickle Sampler (not what you expect), Bombay Shrimp, Tandoori Squash, Curried Seafood Gumbo, Potato Nest Chaat, Nariyal Gulf Fish, and the Khyber Lamb Chops. Absolutely exquisite from start to finish. If you are a fan of Indian cuisine, this is a MUST try while in Nola.

What a wonderful find. We agreed with cocktails which featured a nice selection of classics and creative Indian-influenced options. The menu options were diverse and well-conceived. The combination of southern/cajun/creole and Indian was subtle and delicious. Curried Seafood Gumbo was just delicately curried - could distinctly taste both the dark roux and the curry. Lump crab lentil cakes with tamarind were also tasty. A great wine selection with standard and somm-leaning options. Can’t wait to come back.

Phenomenal. One of the very best meals you’ll ever have anywhere. Don’t like Indian food? It don’t matter. This place will make a convert of you with the absolutely freshest ingredients, and with flavor, spice, and herb combinations that are as inventive as you’ll find in any cuisine. Go with a big group; you’ll want to try everything.

Food was exceptional! The feel and the flow of service was great. Drinks came quickly and were great. Our party sampled several items and all were absolutely delicious. Highly recommend.

My father and I went to Saffron NOLA on the recommendation of a friend. We tried several dishes including the Bombay Shrimp, Naan, Pork Vindaloo, and Khyber Lamb Chops. We also got a mocktail to share. The mocktail was incredibly flavorful and delicious. Each food item was generously portioned. The Bombay Shrimp were coated in a delicious herb coating and the Lamb Chops were large in size and very tender. Upon tasting the Pork Vindaloo, my father mentioned to the waitress how he felt transported back to his childhood in India. Our waitress told this to the chef, who came to our table to introduce himself and tell us his story. Overall, eating at Saffron was an incredible experience that surprised us pleasantly. I would advise future guests to dress more formally and prepare for an upscale dining experience that pairs with an outstanding and diverse food and drink menu.

We had an incredible experience at this beautiful restaurant. Taylor, the manager, went out of his way to make our visit special, “fancy,” and memorable. He was able to squeeze us in a little earlier than our reservation and he accommodated our baby’s needs quickly and thoughtfully. Our waitress Fabiana was attentive and had a gentle demeanor that put everyone at ease. She was just fabulous. The food was delicious and unique, priced fairly and filling. We loved our dining experience!!! Thank you Taylor and Fabiana!

Always great. The food is amazing. Staff are great and the overall vibe is relaxed. Everything feels upscale and I will keep coming back. Pork Vindaloo is my favorite but all their dishes deliver. I keep coming back. Chicken Biryani rivals the pork vindaloo. The onion appetizer is a must! Another year, another visit. Unfortunately the onion appetizer was not on the menu, but the chicken appetizer was incredibly well seasoned and juicy. The paneer dish was a stand out this time around.

Food was great. I had the Goat Keema, it comes with a ton of green peas it case anyone despises them like me. But the server took it back for me with no problem. Other wise it was delicious. The spices were so layered it was more of an experience. We also had the Chicken Lasooni. That was delicious, would order again. Then I had the Golf Fish. That was good. My friend had the lamb chops, those were really good. The star of the show, though, was the service and atmosphere. A1. Best service I had on my visit to New Orleans. Would definitely return.

Saffron was the perfect spot for our anniversary dinner—easily one of the best meals we’ve had in New Orleans. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavor. We started with the wok gobi and Bombay shrimp, both of which were bold, crispy, and addictive. The pork vindaloo had the perfect balance of heat and depth, and the curried seafood gumbo was a creative, comforting twist on a Louisiana classic. The garlic naan was fluffy and fragrant, perfect for soaking up every last bit. And the Khyber lamb chops? Absolutely unforgettable—tender, smoky, and beautifully spiced. From start to finish, the service, atmosphere, and food made the evening feel special. Saffron is a must for anyone looking to celebrate or just indulge in a world-class dining experience.

I’ve been eating here since they were on the westbank. If you love Indian food, you have to check this place out. It’s elevated in the best way without being fufu. The staff is incredible. The food is delicious.

The food is always amazing. I’m gluten intolerant and the chef and servers are always accommodating. If you get a table with Gabriel, he is the best! He’s very knowledgeable and will help take care of you want to let go of the reins.

Had an excellent experience at Saffron NOLA. The food was outstanding—Bombay Shrimp was perfectly cooked with bold, balanced flavours, and the Lacha Chicken, Masala Papad (on request) absolutely delicious. We also tried a few cocktails, which were creative, well-balanced, and complemented the food beautifully. To finish, the Gulab Jamun dessert was warm, soft, and indulgent—an ideal ending to the meal. What really elevated the experience was the hospitality. Chef Arvind personally came by to speak with us, which added a thoughtful, personal touch and showed real pride in the cuisine. Tim, the bartender, was incredibly kind, attentive, and made us feel genuinely welcome throughout the evening. Great food, great drinks, and even better service. Highly recommend Saffron NOLA for anyone looking for refined Indian fusion with top-tier hospitality.

What an absolutely exceptional dining experience, from start to finish! I emailed Saffron NOLA several days in advance to inquire about their ability to accommodate my dietary needs (vegan, gluten-sensitive) for my birthday dinner. Upon arrival at the restaurant, Shruti warmly welcomed me as the front-of-house at the greeting stand, wishing me a happy birthday, and promptly escorting me to my table. There was perfectly dimmed lighting, freshly cut red roses on each dining table, pristine napkins and cutlery, and warm amber/bronze tones to the décor. To note, the restaurant dining area was at full capacity for the course of my dining experience, but not once did it ever feel “too loud” or overwhelming for me personally, which I appreciated as someone who’s more energetically-sensitive. Also, the bathroom was immaculately clean, each and every time that I visited it. This feels important to note, as I’ve visited other high-end restaurants in the past, only for me to pause and question how clean their back-of-house may be, after encountering a dirty guest bathroom. And so, while I may not know your specific names, here’s a shout out to any Saffron NOLA staff who are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness of your bathrooms—thank you! My server, Alyssa, was a gem! I experienced Alyssa as kind and calm, with a gentle demeanor, and fully present during each of our interactions. She also did a wonderful job of balancing healthy attentiveness with also providing me ample space to enjoy each element of my meal, which allowed for a beautifully paced dining experience. Not once did I ever feel rushed, and she also did not hesitate to seek clarification (upon my request) whenever I had a question about a menu item prior to ordering. Both of my cocktails were exquisitely crafted by Ashton, the bartender that evening—with both drinks perfectly balancing the flavors of the alcohol with the other used ingredients. My first sip of both drinks made me literally pause, and think to myself, “DANNNNNNNNG this is GOOD!” Lol. Ashton, you know what you are doing behind that bar, and you are doing it WELL! Onwards to the food! I had a vegan version of their Pani Puri (chickpea focused) as my appetizer. For the Pani Puri, the richness of the chickpea masala was perfectly balanced by the freshness of the Pani (the flavored water). The pani was so delicious, that I could’ve drank it all by itself. I ended up having a coconut milk-based Vegetable Biryani as my main entrée. It was everything that I’m always craving in a biryani—warm, comforting, and boldly seasoned, with such an incredible depth of flavors. Chef Arvinder even visited me to ensure the biryani was to my liking. The portion was huge—I ate my leftovers for lunch, and the biryani was even more delicious than it already was fresh out of the kitchen, given the flavors had had even more time to marry together. As a general remark, the depth of flavors that were reflected during each part of the meal, is probably one of the things that makes my meal at Saffron NOLA stand out the most. Also, I can sense when someone’s food has been (or has NOT been) prepared with focus, care, attention, and most importantly, soul—and to me, my meal at Saffron NOLA was positively infused with each of those things. Additionally, I experienced Saffron NOLA’s staff as working harmoniously and in tandem with one another, both front-of-house and back-of-house (given they have a glass-enclosed open kitchen that's viewable to patrons). Lastly, for dessert, I had a Coconut Sorbet which I felt was a great ending to my meal. The warmth of its vanilla elements, captured inside the coolness of the sorbet, felt like a beautiful, light capstone to all of the delicious Indian flavors that I’d just experienced throughout the evening. It’s not very often that I feel called to write a restaurant review, much less a long one, but Saffron NOLA did it for me. Saffron NOLA, thanks again for a truly spectacular dining experience, from start to finish!

Saffron is a year round favorite for us! Plus, we always choose to celebrate birthdays here because the service and care is top notch. There’s not a single thing on the menu that would disappoint you. Need some direction? Chicken Lasooni, Tandoori Squash, and the Wok Gobi Califlower to start! Cocktails are fantastic, and again, you won’t be disappointed with any of them. We’ve been to Saffron so many times, and when we get to have Gabriel as our server it makes our experience that much better. He’s so knowledgeable and has been with the team since I can remember. Saffron is a must go!

Went for work, it was a private party on the 2nd floor. It was a great experience because we got to have a little of everything. Staff was amazing, super helpful and kind.

+6

Saffron was definitely worth a try! We had some great cocktails. Interestingly, the more standard Indian dishes we had weren’t amazing, but their gumbo was! Would go back solely for that gumbo.

Service was great but this has to be the worst naan I ever had in my life

Creative and tasty (and strong) cocktails. Traditional dishes presented nicely and tasting great but not the bursting Indian flavor I'd expect. Fast service from friendly and informative staff. Lively ambience. Check out the patio!

Came here based on a recommendation from a friend. I came in for lunch because I happened to be in the neighborhood. The prices for the small plates are a bit high, but since this was a late lunch, I had a main and skipped the small plates. I had the chicken grilled cheese with frites. I also ordered a side of the chutneys (in addition to the chutney that comes with the sandwich). The sandwich was delicious. Cooked well with generous portions of cheese and chicken and a nice little spice to the chicken. The chutneys were all quite good and had good texture and flavor. I also had a glass of Gamay Noir from France that was quite nice and at a very reasonable price ($12). I would return here. I'd like to try the dinner menu.

Been wanting to try this restaurant for a looong time! Ordered the Bombay shrimp, lamp chops, and the daal with garlic and cheese naan. The lamb chops were the best item that we ordered! Very tender and flavorful. The food was overpriced for the amount that you get. But our server was great, and the atmosphere was also nice. Glad we tried it but I’m sure there are better Indian restaurants out there.

I would definitely recommend you give this place a try! The staff behind the bar were amazing and attentive, and the ambiance/location is great. However, after going once, I don’t feel inclined to go back. The flavor and/or portion size don’t justify the price, in my opinion. Our favorite thing we ordered was the pakoda, and the chutneys were amazing (every dish needed more of them!).

Delicious, elevated Indian food. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal here. We'd recommend most of their dishes on their menu, especially the Chicken Biriyani and Potato Nest Chaat. We were a bit disappointed by the Saag Paneer and Roti. The saag lacked flavors and the roti wasn't the flaky, oily roti that I've had at other places. We'd probably stick to the Naan next time. For cocktails, we really enjoyed the Stocking Stuffer, as well as the Bengali Girl.

+4

This was a very good experience. The drinks were incredible! If you stop in for a drink and some small plates you will be satisfied. The food was very good and the staff were all excellent. The restaurant had a low key vibe that made for a pleasant dining experience. The prices are quite high which is the only negative about the restaurant but the food was very good and the portion sizes were good. If you are a foodie, then you should add this place to your list!

When I say I’m serious about flavor, I mean it. I’ve done the New Orleans classics like gumbo, po’ boys, and soul food, and I love them — but this time I wanted something different. Saffron NOLA blew me away. They take the city’s Cajun roots and blend them with Indian flavors in a way that’s unexpected and honestly incredible. We had the chicken biryani, the nariyal Gulf fish, and even tried the chicken pickle. Every single dish had so much depth and balance. What really made it special was the chef coming out to talk to us. He saw how happy we were and genuinely appreciated it — that kind of hospitality sticks with you. It’s easy to see why they’ve been recognized by the James Beard Foundation. This place isn’t just dinner — it’s an experience. Absolutely worth it.

Great experience! We were lucky enough to come here during Diwali week- their dinner special was amazing! Their food is slightly westernized, but still amazing. Portion size is adequate for the presentation and price. Unfortunately one my naan was burnt on the side and majority of the back- maybe a slight lack of detail for an upscale resturuant.

butternut squash appetizer was fun, parking can be tricky

Saffron NOLA – Refined Indian with Southern Confidence Saffron NOLA delivers a classy, polished dining experience with attentive and precise service that immediately sets the tone for the evening. The space feels elegant without being stiff—an elevated setting that allows the food and cocktails to shine. Cocktails The drinks were thoughtfully constructed and memorable. A bourbon-based cocktail layered with ghee and Aperol leaned distinctly ghee-forward—rich, warm, and intriguing. The standout, however, was the gin cocktail infused with saffron and finished with egg white. The saffron came through beautifully, and the texture from the egg made it velvety and luxurious. It was the only egg-based cocktail on the menu—and an easy choice. Food The lentil-based pancake topped with crab was an interesting concept, though the hearty lentil base slightly overpowered the delicacy of the seafood. The mint and tamarind chutneys were flavorful, but the dish might have benefited from a vegetable-forward approach instead of crab. A jaggery-ghee syrup for sweetness and a lentil-based gunpowder spice for heat could elevate and balance the composition even further. The shrimp rice was delicate and well-executed, and the naan—flaky and slightly different from traditional versions—was excellent and satisfying. Dessert The highlight of the evening was the toffee pudding with ice cream and cashew crumbles. Warm, rich, and perfectly textured, it was the kind of dessert that lingers in memory. Final Thoughts Overall, Saffron NOLA was a strong culinary experience—refined, creative, and well-serviced. One small tip: if possible, request seating that avoids facing directly onto the main street, as the exterior signage can distract slightly from the otherwise elegant ambiance. A restaurant worth visiting—especially if you appreciate thoughtful cocktails and Indian cuisine with a New Orleans touch.

This is a busy place, we ended up eating at the bar as there were no seats left and we were near close. The service was prompt and the bartenders were very busy but attentive. I had a gin and tonic and my date a Manhattan both of which were made well and tasted great. We ordered naan and some tasters and desert. The food was OK but I think given The Choice I would order a different dessert next time as the ice cream in the phenomenon was just OK. Would go back again but would not be my 1st choice.

Family run restaurant that caters more to the local crowd. Under spiced for most Indian palets. The concepts are great but the food could use a bit more kick when serving Indian customers. Service was good but a little slow. That said we enjoy the atmosphere. Shrimp and the truffle ban were the highlights. Oysters were cooked perfectly but could use more green chilli or a dash of chat masala. Lab was cooked perfectly but would have loved more charing that you get when cooked in the tandoor.

+2

we were large party and had a reservation for late Friday. we arrived on time and got the table right away. It was loud enough we couldn't hear what the waiter was saying. we got our drinks pretty quickly. Hot toddy was ok with no flavor of typical spices, surprisingly for an Indian eatery. It took almost an hour to get our food which is not acceptable. The appetizer, potato nest chaat, over priced and the noodles were so hard. Kerala seafood curry was good and had right mix of the spices. There was too much cumin in Nariyal gulf fish. I didn't get the flavor of India nor Nola, something got lost in between.

A Mixed Bag at Saffron Nola I recently visited Saffron Nola with high expectations, but unfortunately, my experience was a mixed bag. We ordered the chicken biryani and Royal paneer, hoping to indulge in some authentic Indian flavors. While the biryani was decent, with a pleasant aroma and fluffy rice, it lacked a depth of flavor that I've come to expect from this dish. The Royal paneer, however, was a letdown. The paneer itself was tender, but the flavor was surprisingly bland, lacking the rich and creamy sauce that I've enjoyed at other Indian restaurants. It seemed like the dish was adjusted to suit a more subtle palate, perhaps catering to a largely non-Indian clientele. Overall, I felt that Saffron Nola was overhyped and overrated. While the ambiance was pleasant, the food didn't quite live up to the expectations. If you're a fan of bold and authentic Indian flavors, you might find Saffron Nola a bit disappointing. Maybe they'll revisit their recipes to cater to a more diverse palate.

The Tandoori Squash was good, but the Corn Korma was overly sweet. The naan was disappointing — the garlic naan had no garlic, and the chili cheese naan lacked stuffing. We were there for a birthday, but they didn’t acknowledge it in any way.

I went to Saffron Nola recently. We went for my wife's birthday. The food was ok but slightly overpriced and under-spiced. The portion size was also somewhat small. For such a price, you'd expect a bigger portion. The service was impeccable. This is the establishment's greatest strength. Everyone was prompt and reliable. The atmosphere had a cosmopolitan feel. It was noisy but that's a part of the vibe. Overall, I'd recommend folks experience this place at least once. I would not say it feels very authentic but it isn't necessarily aiming to. It is Indian fusion and not just Indian.

It’s been a while since we have eaten ate at saffrons so we decided to make reservations for last night . The food was delicious and the waitress was good until the bill came out . We spend over 300 and I noticed a charge of $11 for kitchen wellness . I asked the waitress what does Kitchen wellness means? She tells us it’s to help our kitchen staff . She explained that the owners would have to raise their prices in order to help pay the kitchen staff . You going to tell me that a costumer whose bill is over $300 plus add a tip to pay for kitchen wellness . This means leaving a smaller tip . Sorry but Won’t be back .

I recently visited Saffron restaurant upon a friends friend recommendation and unfortunately, my experience was quite disappointing. The restaurant lacked the essential spices that make Indian cuisine so flavorful and enjoyable. The dishes were bland and lacked the depth of flavor that I was expecting. I was also disappointed to find out that the restaurant did not offer a dessert menu, which was a big letdown. Moreover, the service was not up to the mark either. We were informed that we had to leave in an hour, which made us feel rushed and uncomfortable throughout our meal. It was apparent that the restaurant was more concerned with turnover than customer satisfaction. Certainly, I would be happy to add that the ambience of the restaurant was good, which could be a redeeming quality. However, despite the nice atmosphere, the poor quality of the food and service overshadowed any positives. As a result, I would not consider going back to this restaurant, nor would I recommend it to anyone looking for a good Indian dining experience. There are plenty of other restaurants in the area that offer better food and service, and I believe it's better to spend our time and money at those places instead.

+4

As a Pakistani American I was really let down. The food was very subpar. The salmon pani puri was the worst pani puri I've ever had. It was served on a bed of raw lentils, which would sometimes stick to the puri and make the bite awful because you got the hard lentils in the bite. The prices are astronomically high. The potato chaat was so small and $25 and the "table side" service was them pouring chatni onto the appetizer. The presentation is nice but there is no way for food that is so mediocre, the dishes could be that expensive. The ambiance is very nice and the staff is great but if you want Indian food- this is not the place