Ambala Dhaba

Went on a friend’s recommendation, and discovered that none other than Jonathan Gold, food guru of the LA basin, had recommended its sister location up in Westwood, a good sign. Simply marvellous - I particularly recommend their bakra (aka goat) dishes, while there are plenty of solid vegetarian choices (try the daal of the day, it’ll doubtless be great). Very sharp and rich meals, you can taste a certain edge to them that’s rough in an appealing way. The jal jeera is the must-have drink with it - it’s not sweet, I’ll warn you! Ginger, tamarind, cumin and more, but it contrasts the entrees excellently. And the carrot halwa is a wonderful dessert! They’re about to move a few blocks up Pioneer, so keep an eye out for that.