Let me start by saying that I initially considered giving this place a 4/5 because I absolutely love Indian food and have enjoyed some truly amazing meals at more upscale Indian restaurants and I do expect a lot. However, I decided on a 5/5 for several good reasons.
I'm from out of town now, and where I live, there's no shortage of excellent Indian food options. But when I visit Bakersfield, I know I'm not going to find as many choices for quality ethnic cuisine. So, when my wife and I wanted something quick and craved Indian food, "Curry in a Hurry" naturally caught our eye. But remember, good Indian food takes time to prepare, so the name "Curry in a Hurry" suggests certain things you should expect—and not make a big deal out of.
The place is exactly as it presents itself online. When you walk in, the staff welcomes you and asks if it’s your first time there. They’re upfront about the fact that their Indian food is Americanized, meaning the spice levels might be milder, the cooking quicker, and the menu more limited—just the basics. I think this is a smart approach, especially in a place like Bakersfield where Indian cuisine might be less familiar or seem intimidating with its complex flavors and unfamiliar names. That's just how it is when you grow up here.
For someone like me, who grew up with Indian food, this place might not be mind-blowing, but if you’re new to Indian cuisine or still trying to warm up to it, this is the perfect introduction. It’s affordable, they offer the classic dishes, and there’s no pressure—it’s more like a food court style of serving. If you enjoy their food, it might inspire you to explore more traditional Indian restaurants, or you can just come back here when you’re “in a hurry.”
For those who truly love Indian food, I recommend taking a moment to appreciate what this place offers rather than comparing it to a sit-down restaurant. They don’t advertise themselves as gourmet, so it’s not fair to judge them solely on that. The food quality checks the right boxes. Sure, I have a few critiques, but considering how quickly the food was ready and the overall positive experience, I can overlook some of those minor issues. For anyone who’s never tried Indian food before, this spot is a great starting point that won’t disappoint.
And if you’re looking to amp up the heat, I suggest trying the spicy chili oil on your second visit—it’s pretty darn spicy and really enhances the dishes!
Most importantly, this felt like a family-run restaurant, and I appreciated the staff’s pride and honesty about their food. It’s crucial to support small businesses, especially those taking risks to bring more culture and diversity to our town.
Thank you, Curry in a Hurry!