Cheap Eats: Best Indian Buffets

There's no buffet like an Indian buffet. But let's be honest: You're not just going find "Indian food" at the city's authentic restaurants. More than ever, kitchens are focusing on North or South Indian cuisine-or even one of those region's many sub-cuisines, like Mughlai or Udipi, respectively, each favoring different spices, veggies and cooking techniques. Taste India yourself at one of these three bang-for-your-buck buffets.

Aab India Restaurant

Since moving into the old Thom's space in 2010, Aab has been consistently voted "Best Indian Restaurant" by Columbus Monthly readers. When you hit the buffet ($11.49, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays; noon to 3 p.m. weekends), skip the naan and go straight for the bhatura, deep-fried North Indian sweet bread. Later, return for a few ladlesful of Aab's perfectly broiled Chicken Tikka Masala. 6642 Sawmill Rd., Dublin, 614-791-7900; 1470 Grandview Ave., Grandview, 614-486-2800, aabindiarestaurant.com

Amul India

Amul recently moved about three miles south of its original Sawmill Road location, but its all-encompassing buffet ($8.99, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays; 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekends) hasn't changed a bit. Load up on pakoras (there are chicken, fish and veggie varieties) and top yourself off with some paneer chili. 5871 Sawmill Rd., Dublin, 614-734-1600, amulindia.net

Udipi Cafe

Udipi's meatless weekday smorgasbord ($7.99 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is packed with signature South Indian offerings. Start with a bowl of sambar, a hearty tamarind-based stew, and head back for a slice of uttapam (Indian pizza). 2001 E. Dublin Granville Rd., North Side, 614-885-7446