I am a picky eater. I don't like ethnic foods; at least that's what I have told myself for years. That being said, my wife loves ethnic foods, and I have made it a point, a few times a year, to try somewhere new with her.

Recently, while on Indy's north side, I suggested we try an Indian resturant that she loved, Taj of India.

From the outside, Taj doesn't look like much... just a hole in a strip-mall. I prepared myself for the assault of curry as we entered, but was very happy when only a faint smell of curry was to be found, and that was mixed with many other interesting scents.

We were seated in the back of the resturant, and were promptly waited on by a server who answered my questions as a newbie to Indian cuisine.

After looking over the menu for about 10 minutes (we weren't rushed) I made a selection - a lamb kabob that was also served with chicken curry, together with a helping of their naan bread. ( don't remember the fomal name of the dish...)

Our food arrived after having been prepared to my specifications (medium on the spice-meter, which was too hot for my wife, but was fine for me... with the help of some Prilosec!)... the kabobs were sizzling loudly when there were set on our table.

Though nervous, I dug in... and really enjoyed the food. The meats were both cooked perfectly and were very flavorful. I was very suprised by the chicken curry, which - to be honest - I expected to hate. It was delicious, and, by the time we left, none of the chicken curry remained.

I filled up with about three kabobs remaining, and brought them home... but the food was just outstanding.

I highly recommend Taj of India if you are looking for a first experience with ethnic foods, or if you are looking for Indian on Indy's north side.