Spice level warning — Tandoori Chicken is not what I expected

I underestimated Tandoori Chicken. The warmly spiced and aromatic description didn't prepare me for the reality. whole spices brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Indian cuisine varies enormously by state, religion, and climate. The a dhaba roadside restaurant setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. nimbu pani lemon water cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.