In the back streets of old Olhão, you will find the original Indian Hut, having been in the same location for 10 years. There is a new, but not improved, Indian Hut 2 out on the main drag along the Ria Formosa a few blocks away, but this is our go-to spot.
It is tiny with just a few tables inside and four or five outside under the awning. Being in the mild climate of the Algarve, eating outside is always an option, even on a winter night. The staff are warm and friendly and the service impeccable.
The food is wonderful, having spent four months in India in 2014/2015, I have experienced Indian cuisine at its source, so I know a little bit about what I am talking about. We always start with a couple pappadum (€1 each) and a pickle tray (€3.50), which will easily satisfy four people. The onion bhaji (4 for €3) and chicken samosas (2 for €3.50) are also delicious, but take it easy because the entrees themselves are very filling.
The first time we ate here, I ordered the chicken madras (€8.50), a semi-spicy sauce with big chunks of chicken breast, and an order of pilao rice (€3) which is more than enough for two people (the rice that is). The last couple of times, I had the butter chicken (€10.50) which is the best I ever had. The first time I ordered the 'normal' version, but the second time I asked for 'moderately' spicy and it was wonderful! The serving is quite big, a creamy sauce and several chunks of chicken breast, and it has been difficult not to eat the whole portion, it is that good.
My wife is a saag paneer (€8.50) fan and their's is also very tasty and filling with warm, creamy spinach and chunks of their homemade Indian white cheese. My buddy George loves the fish curry (€9) and gets it as hot (spicy) as the can make it, and his wife Sherry loves the prawn saag (creamed spinach and shrimp - €11).
The wines, beers, and spirits are reasonably priced and a complimentary glass of port is a normal after dinner treat. The only negative is that the entree prices are a Euro or two too high, putting a meal for four, including starters, pilau rice, entrees, drinks, and dessert in the €70 to €80 range which is quite high by Portuguese standards.
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