Hotel Aiken in Aiken

Wanted to try this place out as I love Indian cuisine.   I was pretty disappointed to be honest.  No draft beer, no Kingfisher and only large Taj Mahul beer. Poppadoms were not home made. Onion bhaji to start with and for an appetizer it was massive (which is not a bad thing) but it was just a plate of battered and fried onion rather like a crows nest.  Tasted like a blooming onion you would get from Outback rather tha...

The stars speaks for itself..great service,  great food..love love love the Tandoori Chicken..and the Naan..must have, great to dip in your favorite curry.

What a wonderful addition to Aiken!    I'll preface this by saying I was not a fan of Indian food.  But Taj Aiken has changed my mind... it's not what I thought of as "typical" Indian food (too greasy and heavy).    The food is fresh and bright and they will vary the spiciness according to your preference.   (I've now graduated to "spicy" after some testing).   My four stars are for the food and sweetness of the staff, who, even when they are swamped with diners, manage to go above and beyond.    The decor isn't going to win any awards - but the vibe is fun and I love that it's so busy!  I will give the fifth star when they can relocate -- walking into the Hotel Aiken to get to this gem always makes me cringe just a bit.