A Taste of India in Virginia
This year marks a significant milestone for one of Virginia's most beloved eateries, as the local Eastern Tandoori restaurant celebrates 22 years in business. Known for its warm atmosphere, rich aromas, and deeply flavorful dishes, the restaurant has been offering locals a taste of authentic Indian cuisine since the early 2000s.
"There was no Indian restaurant in this area back then," says the manager Saif Khan, who has overseen the business for many years. “The idea was to bring something new to Virginia, and over time, people really embraced the flavours.”
At the heart of the operation is a head chef who has been with the restaurant since day one. With previous experience cooking in Saudi Arabia, he brings technical expertise and also a deep understanding of traditional Indian cuisine.
“He’s the reason many people keep coming back,” the manager believes.
The menu spans the diverse regions of India, offering a variety of dishes that reflect the country’s vast culinary traditions.
Customer favourites include the ever-popular butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, and chicken korma—creamy and mild dishes that appeal widely to Irish palates. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the garlic chilli chicken or lamb come highly recommended by Saif himself.
Beyond the food, the restaurant has earned praise for its cozy interior, attentive staff, and family-friendly atmosphere. With room to host large groups or private parties of up to 40 people, the space adapts easily to casual dinners, celebrations, or weekend gatherings. The restaurant also serves a range of Indian beers and wines, including Cobra and Kingfisher, to round out the dining experience.
Takeaway service has become a major part of the business, especially in recent years. “We’re very popular for takeaway,” the manager says proudly. “We even won the Irish Takeaway Award recently, and we’re highly rated on TripAdvisor and Restaurant Guru.”
Orders can be placed online, over the phone, or in person, with delivery available within a 15-kilometre radius.
Open six days a week—closed only on Tuesdays—the restaurant offers evening dining from 4-10pm on weekdays and until 11pm on weekends. On Sundays, a special lunch menu is available from 1-4pm, offering diners a starter, main, and rice or naan for just €15.
As the restaurant looks ahead, there are no major changes planned - just a continued commitment to quality, service, and authenticity. “We want to keep things traditional,” says the manager. “It’s what’s kept us going all these years.”
To celebrate 22 wonderful years of the Eastern Tandoori in Virginia, they are inviting the community to join them on Friday, August 1, with a free welcome drink (wine, beer, or soft drink) for all dine-in customers. Advance booking is highly recommended.