Finding this restaurant has been a pleasant surprise since moving to Sausalito! I went with a Nepalese friend interested to see how much of the menu is influenced by Nepal, and we were pleased to see a consistent Nepalese theme to the decorations inside. That convinced us to stay and order, and the food was excellent. The momos were very flavorful, the chow mein was spicy and delicious (“hot” was plenty for me, “Indian hot” is likely too much for most patrons!), and all meat dishes were juicy and nice to look at. We agreed that this is a place we’ll need to go to again and again!
Overview
Sartaj India Cafe on 43 Caledonia St, Sausalito, CA, offers an incredible experience for those craving authentic Indian cuisine. As soon as you walk in, you're greeted with the warm, inviting aroma of fresh spices and a cozy ambiance that makes it feel like home. The menu at Sartaj India Cafe is a celebration of traditional Indian flavors, and every dish is carefully crafted to provide an authentic dining experience.
What makes Sartaj India Cafe stand out in the competitive food scene of Sausalito is its dedication to high-quality ingredients and its emphasis on flavor-packed dishes. The restaurant’s menu spans a variety of rich, comforting Indian meals, each with a unique twist that reflects the vibrant culture of India. Whether you're a fan of spicy curries or prefer milder dishes, there’s something for everyone here.
One of the standout dishes is the Chicken Tikka Masala, which has become a fan favorite. The tender chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of heat and a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. The balance of spices makes it both savory and flavorful, and it pairs perfectly with the naan bread. Another crowd-pleaser is the Butter Chicken, which is rich and velvety, with a slightly sweet and savory profile that’s sure to satisfy anyone's taste buds.
Vegetarians will feel just as at home at Sartaj India Cafe. The restaurant's Paneer Butter Masala is a must-try, offering a smooth, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked cubes of paneer (Indian cheese). It's a comforting dish that highlights the versatility of Indian vegetarian cuisine, with spices that bring out the natural flavors of the paneer without overwhelming it.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, their lentil-based dishes are also worth exploring. The Dal Tadka, made from yellow lentils cooked with aromatic spices, is comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty yet healthy meal.
In addition to the main dishes, the restaurant’s appetizers are equally delightful. The Samosas, filled with spiced potatoes and peas, are crispy and flavorful, offering a perfect start to your meal. The Pakoras, battered and deep-fried, are light and crunchy, with a tangy tamarind dipping sauce that enhances the overall experience.
Sartaj India Cafe’s location in Sausalito is also a big plus. Just a short walk from the waterfront, it offers a chance to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the scenic beauty of the bay area. The restaurant’s casual, laid-back vibe makes it an excellent spot for both a quiet lunch or a fun dinner with friends.
The service is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere of the cafe. Staff members are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences. If you’re not sure what to try, they’re more than willing to guide you through the options and suggest some signature dishes.
What truly sets Sartaj India Cafe apart, though, is its commitment to providing an experience that blends authenticity with comfort. The menu showcases the rich culinary heritage of India while ensuring that each dish is approachable and comforting for every type of diner. Whether you’re a first-timer exploring Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan of traditional dishes, Sartaj India Cafe will not disappoint.
If you’re in Sausalito and looking for a place to indulge in delicious Indian food, this spot should be on your list. From the thoughtfully prepared dishes to the welcoming ambiance, Sartaj India Cafe delivers an unforgettable dining experience. So, next time you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by and treat yourself to a flavorful meal that will leave you coming back for more.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great tea selectionPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toilet ✓ Wheelchair-accessible car parkOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Counter service ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ CosyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 486 reviews
We were visiting from Dallas and had a great experience at Sartaj Indian Restaurant! We started with samosa chaat, pakora, samosas, and aloo paratha—all were fresh and flavorful. For the main course, we had paneer tikka masala, chana masala, and dal makhani. The food was delicious and well-spiced. The mango lassi was refreshing, but the highlight of our meal was the chai—absolutely the best! Great place for authentic Indian food. Will definitely be back!
when I entered the restaurant, I was not expecting the food to be this good, but trust me. It is actually very tasty. We tried momos Aloha Samosa and Chole Bhature.
Sartaj is a charming Indian restaurant. Their new location represents a decided upscale move and is nice, better decorated, and much larger. The food is good and the service is great. A wonderful local lunch place.
My wife and I had lunch at Sartaj today on a recommendation. We are very familiar with Pakistani, Indian and Nepalese cuisine and found the food excellent in all respects. Service was most friendly and attentive. The atmosphere was pretty quiet — ideal for us — though it may be more lively in the evenings. We will definitely make the trip over the Golden Gate Bridge to visit again.
Tasty food and good ambience. Staff is also very good. The view from hotel is mind blowing.