Dosa Royale

Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill date-night couples and groups of friends have cottoned to Dosa Royale in a big way, packing the modern bistro every night. And for those who live outside the area and love South Indian food, it's worth making the trip. Dosas—savory crepes made of a fermented batter of rice and black lentils—are massive yet light as lace. Vegetarian fillings like curried potatoes or spinach and paneer come with housemade chutneys and sambar, a brothy stew flavored with tamarind. Street-food starters like crunchy lentil fritters and samosas stuffed with ground lamb are great for sharing. Also setting Dosa Royale apart from your average neighborhood curry spot: wines that work well with Indian spices and beer that goes beyond Kingfisher.