Just a block from the bustle of the Santa Monica Promenade, Tumbi feels worlds away, offering inventive Indian cooking in an industrial-chic setting. There's butter chicken and palak paneer to satisfy western palates, but savvy diners should opt for the deeper cuts—street foods, “pots" as well as showstopping plates like the sea bass and apricot curry. Topped with taro chips and a blistered poblano, it's a deeply layered, impossibly flavorful creation.
That’s not to say that Tumbi can’t handle the classics. In fact, its massive paper dosa is crispy perfection, accompanied by fiery sambar and duo of cooling chutneys. Desserts are especially unique—envision saffron panna cotta, deconstructed carrot halwa, and a "dessert dosa" served with creamy Nutella.