There's a new restaurant on the Eagle Ridge block, and it's set to expand on Coquitlam's diverse culinary community.
Milaap Indian Kitchen becomes the fourth South Asian or Middle Eastern restaurant within a four-block radius of the main thoroughfares in the neighbourhood, joining Pasargad Restaurant, Jamila's Kitchen and Grill, and Lazzez's Grill Indian cuisine.
The family-owned and operated business officially opened its doors to the public today (Sept. 6), spokesperson Manish Petwal told the Tri-City News.
It's located in the Eagle Ridge Plaza (315-1196 Lansdowne Dr.) near Woking Dragon Chop Suey House and Wonderland Yogurt.
According to its website, Milaap is rooted in authentic Indian cooking from Chef Ramesh Semwal and hopes to offer something for every local foodie.
Semwal has worked in the restaurant industry for 25 years, spanning 12 countries on three different continents.
And while he's said to bring even the smallest dishes to life, his headliner is the creamy butterica chicken.
Milaap explains the dish, unlike regular butter chicken, is based on a sauce made by locally-sourced fresh tomatoes that are smoked and slow clooked for nearly four hours.
They're then brought to life with cream and a variety of spices to ignite a flavourful chicken dish, complete with unsalted butter, nuts and gravy.
The new Coquitlam restaurant's menu also includes many rice dishes, Pakora, treats infused with Paneer cheese, wraps, breads and sweet desserts.
As well, for quick to-go meals, Milaap is also serving Chicken Chaat — a common street food snack of South Asia.
Main courses range from chicken and lamb to fish and vegetarian options.
But above all, Petwal says Milaap is also a vegan-friendly place for anyone looking for a little taste of India.
"If you are looking for amazing Indian food... We have lots of vegan options," he said in a social media post about the restaurant's grand opening.
Interested guests can come in person or order online for in-store pick-up.
For more information on Milaap Indian Kitchen and to see a full menu, you're encouraged to visit its website.
