Seemor
Portland › Portland › Haveli Indian Cuisine - NW Portland
Haveli Indian Cuisine - NW PortlandB+Worth Trying
1514 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
· Indian restaurant, Modern Indian restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (370 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Punjabi-leaning Indian spot with standout biryani, goat curry, and naan; excellent vegetarian range, but service consistency and spice/temperature variability can wobble.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Haveli Indian Cuisine delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality—particularly standout biryani and tender goat masala—and a warm, family-run atmosphere on NW 23rd. However, inconsistent execution across visits, including variable spice levels and occasional service delays during peak times, prevents it from reaching higher territory. The restaurant excels at what it does but lacks the reliability and refinement expected of grade A establishments.
Restaurant Summary
On NW 23rd, Haveli hums with a warm, lively energy—bright room, clink of dishes, and a family-run feel. Service ranges from friendly and fast to occasionally stressed at peak times, but plates often land with aromas that make people say, "this tastes like it simmered all day." Seats fill quickly, so a quick reservation helps. In the kitchen, the cooking leans classic Punjabi with a few house touches rather than theatrics—think slow-cooked biryani and tender goat masala, plus fresh, fluffy naan. Vegetarian choices are extensive, and spice levels can be tuned. A minority find sauces too similar or milder than expected, so asking for bolder seasoning pays off. Families are welcome: there is a simple kids menu (chicken strips, fries) and plenty of kid-friendly staples like butter masala, tikka masala, and naan. If your crew craves fiery or very specific regional dishes, confirm spice level and style first so everyone leaves happy.
At a Glance
- Deeply flavorful goat curry and crowd-pleasing naan
- Broad vegetarian and gluten-free options clearly labeled
- Service can be slow or brusque during busy times
- Spice and temperature consistency varies across visits
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- slow-cooked biryani approach
- broad vegetarian selection
- strong goat curry execution
What People Love
- Tender, aromatic goat masala
- Biryani with whole-spice depth
- Fresh, pillowy naan
- Lunch thalis that feel like a deal
- Clean, bright dining room
Points of Concern
- Service inconsistency: delays for water/orders and curt host interactions mentioned by several diners
- Spice levels vary; some sauces taste similar or milder than expected
- Occasional temperature issues (lukewarm curries) and rare undercooking reports
- Pricing can feel high for portion size to some, especially rice add-ons
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Chana Masala ($17) or Baingan Bharta ($17) with Garlic Naan ($5)
- Protein lovers: Punjabi Goat Masala ($22) plus Basmati Rice ($5)
- Kids: Chicken Strips ($8) and Fries ($5)
Perfect For
- Casual dinner on NW 23rd after shopping
- Group tasting of curries and biryani
- Vegetarian-friendly outings
- Weeknight comfort-food cravings
Location Insights
Area: Trendy NW 23rd Avenue corridor with boutiques and cafes; draws locals and visitors for strolling and dining.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, high foot traffic; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Boutique retail, dessert shops, casual eateries; near residential streets and Forest Park access.
Nob HillNob Hill is a trendy and walkable neighborhood featuring a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The dining scene is eclectic, ranging from casual eateries to upscale establishments, attracting a diverse crowd looking for quality food in a friendly atmosphere.
NW 23rd AvenueNW 23rd Avenue is a well-known commercial strip within Nob Hill, famous for its mix of independent retailers, casual and upscale dining options, and a bustling street life that draws both locals and tourists.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →