Rangoli Indian Restaurant

When I was little, I often went to London. They were days of new discoveries, exhibitions, shopping and so much food. For me, it was the perfect opportunity to discover new exotic dishes that weren’t available in more traditional Milan. We tried Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Indian, Vietnamese. When we went for Indian, our clothes would smell of cumin for two days, and after those dinners you felt like you had eaten all over the world.

We aren’t travelling to India, nor are we going to London. Rangoli is an amazing Indian food experience you can have right here, in the middle of Brera, at via Solferino.

Located underground, Rangoli is decorated with traditional tables, separated by posters for those who want a bit more privacy. The hostesses wear traditional saris and the curtains and colours that dominate the restaurants decor recall the vivid richness of the food served.

The menu is extensive, and for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine, there are descriptions alongside each dish. I must say here that it is very difficult to describe the flavours at play in an Indian dish. There are pappadums, thin crispy waffles that you can eat with sauces that can contain yogurt and mint, spice or sweet tangy tamarind.

You’re best off inquiring about the spiciness, seeing that Indian food can really pack a punch (for daredevils, the Vindaloo is a must). Rangoli, and Indian food in general, invites you to experiment by sharing a number of plates. I highly recommend the chicken tikka masala, which is full and punchy, and come served with a red pepper sauce. I also recommend the lamb biryani, which serves meat or fish with spiced pilaf rice. Generally, these dishes aren’t too spicy, and don’t come served with gravy. Curries are generally spicier, and while I love chicken, I have to recommend the vegetarian offerings, as well as those with tiger prawns. I also recommend the korma, which comes with a yogurt sauce, and has a sweet and creamy finish.

Who knows, after trying all of this, it may provide the stimulus for your next subcontinental adventure.