Best Contemporary Indian Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

This is not your typical Indian restaurant, although most dishes incorporate Indian ingredients. Loved the Dahi Puri, an interesting melange of savory & sweet flavors. Chili Garlic Crab had chunks of meat swimming deliciously in ghee with lots of garlic plus chili flakes, accompanied by petite lime scented dinner buns to soak up the rest of the sauce. Chicken Masala had 3 skinless/boneless thighs in a flavorful sauce. Saffron rice & Naan were fine. Cocktails yummy & strong. Desserts not overly sweet: 3 layer Cashew cake dessert had acflavor reminiscent of halvah. Sago & coconut panna cotta nice. Our desserts not quite as scrumptious as savory courses, next time I might order the Dari Puri to end the meal. Our entire dinner experience was top notch & I am looking forward to returning. My companion stated it was the best meal he had in a year ( & his family owns a restaurant lol ). I’ve had plenty of traditional Indian food including in the UK & India; the food at Rooh is decidedly different in a good way.

A new place with a delightful owner. He guided us on the menu and we were pleased with our meal.

A delicious and delightful departure from the same ‘ol, same ‘ol. Unique dishes, surprising combinations and traditional French favs for those who prefer that. We ordered ordered a collection of Indian-inspired small plates and loved everything. Creative drinks menu and lovely, cozy, quiet (but not dead) atmosphere. We will go back!