One of the things I truly enjoy is being able to try food from other cultures. While Chinese, Mexican, and Italian foods are plentiful, it is a special treat to find authentic cuisine from other places in the Akron Ohio area. That is one of the reasons I was delighted to discover the Saffron Patch restaurant in Weathervane Commons in Akron, just across the street from The Weathervane Theater. About Cleveland has given Saffron Patch 5 out of 5 stars in their guide rating.
Saffron Patch is a small, quiet place that specializes in Indian foods, and offers an eclectic mix of chicken, lamb, and vegetarian entrees ranging from $10 – $16. They also have a full menu of appetizers to choose from. Their Buttered Naan is delicious, and is a great addition to any meal.
If you’re not sure whether you will like Indian cuisine, or don’t know what to choose from the menu, I would suggest making a trip at lunch, when they offer a small buffet. It always has Vegetable Pakodas (mixed veggies n a chick pea flour, rolled into balls and deep fried – one of my favorites), Saffron Pilav, Salad with Cucumber Riata and Mango Chutney, Rice Pudding and Gulab Jamen (delicious). They also have dishes like Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Curry, Dal Makhani, and Chana Masala. The entrees on the buffet vary from day to day, but the selection is always delicious. The foods come in varying degrees of hotness, so if that’s a concern, be sure to ask the server for some guidance. They are all very knowledgeable about the menu, and can offer good advice,
One thing I have learned, if you want to know how authentic the food is, look at the clientele. I have never eaten at the Saffron Patch without seeing people from India there enjoying a meal. This isn’t an Americanized version of Indian cuisine.
If you are looking for a unique dining experience, I highly recommend Saffron Patch.
The Saffron Patch is open Monday: 5-9 PM, Tues – Thurs: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 5 – 9:30 PM, and Fri – Sun. 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM and 5 – 10 PM.
They are located at 1244 Weathervane Lane, Akron, OH 44313
330-836-7777 – Reservations are recommended for Thursday – Sunday dinners.
