When the mood for Indian food strikes but time isn’t on our side, The Chaplins head to California Chutney for our South Asian fill. This fast-casual spot in Old Pasadena opened two years ago, and we’ve been fans since the start.

The menu isn’t expansive, with just six “proteins” to choose from (chickpeas, paneer (cheese), lamb, shrimp, and two kinds of chicken). Everything is boldly spiced, so when you see a dish denoted with three chili symbols on the menu, get ready for some serious heat. On a previous visit, the “Lamb Keema” made us sweat.

A notable aspect of the restaurant is the made-from-scratch chutney bar that includes traditional varieties like tamarind and cilantro, as well as more inventive concoctions like cinnamon-pineapple and mango-ginger.

June and I usually order two “Naan Tacos” ($8.80) to share. The “Paneer with Kale” is my filling of choice, while June tends to favor the “Tandoori Chicken.” While the fillings are both very good, it’s the house-made naan that keeps us coming back.

The yogurt-based flatbread is freshly prepared throughout the day in the restaurant’s tandoori ovens. It always tastes super-fresh, with a texture that’s tender and wonderfully chewy. We always order an extra piece or two on the side ($1.75 per piece).

The Astronomer likes to order the “Rice Bowl” ($7.95)—saffron basmati rice topped with a protein of choice. On this visit, he selected the Chicken Tikka Masala, chicken breast simmered with a plethora of warm spices (garlic, ginger, green chili, cream, coriander, red chili, paprika, turmeric, cumin, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, fennel, cinnamon, black pepper).

Chutney offers a variety of toppings, like salad greens and such, but we prefer to keep things pretty basic with just fresh onions and cilantro. A mango lassi on the side is a must.

California Chutney not only scratches the Indian food itch when we’re crunched for time, but also delivers flavorful food that’s fresh and satisfying. Now, that’s a win-win.

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California Chutney
45 North Raymond Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91103
Phone: 626-396-6947

One year ago: State Bird Provisions – San Francisco
Two years ago: WILD at Canelé – Los Angeles (Atwater Village)
Three years ago: Bourbon Steak – Glendale
Four years ago: Hui Tou Xiang Noodles House – San Gabriel
Five years ago: A-Frame – Los Angeles (Culver City)
Six years ago: Bacon Almond Brittle
Seven years ago: Dahlia Lounge – Seattle
Eight years ago: Taihei Restaurant – Monterey Park
Nine years ago: Augustin – Ho Chi Minh City
Ten years ago: Reading Terminal Market – Philadelphia