Seemor

TigerlilyB+Worth Trying

Name: Tigerlily
Address: 1513 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709, Berkeley, United States
Rating: 4.4

1513 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley, CA 94709 · Indian restaurant, Bar, Caterer · 4.4/5 Google (323 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Modern Indian-fusion spot with standout cocktails and warmly involved owners; food ranges from excellent to mixed, portions can feel light for the price.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Tigerlily delivers competitive neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by standout dishes like chicken tikka masala and lamb chops, paired with warm, attentive service from owners Atul and Alka. Inconsistent execution on seasoning and portions, combined with tight seating in the main room, prevents a higher grade despite an excellent cocktail program that makes this worth a visit for drinks and modern Indian fusion.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and bustling, a neighborhood hub where owners Atul and Alka float between tables with easy hospitality. A guest summed it up: "They treated us like family," while bartenders shake playful cocktails and the bar TVs add a touch of sports-bar energy. Seating can run tight up front, but in back and on the patio it settles into a cozy rhythm. The cooking leans modern Indian with creative fusion: squid ink naan, miso creme fraiche with little gems, tuna tartare on papadum, and a much-loved chicken tikka masala. When it hits, it is vibrant and satisfying; a few diners wished for bolder seasoning or more generous portions. Cocktails are a centerpiece, from East of Infinity to the namesake Tigerlily, making this a smart pick for those who love chef-driven flavors and a great drink. Families can make this work thanks to familiar items like fried chicken, naan, meatballs, and mild curries. There is no explicit kids menu, but portions and spices can be navigated; picky eaters may prefer naan, samosas, or fried chicken while adventurous kids try the lamb chops. Expect modern touches rather than traditional comfort classics.

At a Glance

Warm, hands-on owners create a welcoming atmosphere
Standout cocktail program with inventive signatures
Broad vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
Portions can feel small for the price on some dishes
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

creative_cocktail_program
hands_on_owners
modern_indian_fusion

What People Love

Memorable hospitality from the owner couple
Rich, crowd-pleasing tikka masala
Tender sesame lamb chops
Playful, well-crafted cocktails
Crispy-juicy tikka fried chicken

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely expensive ($28+ mains) which may surprise casual diners
Some report small protein portions (few chicken pieces, light whole-fish yield)
Occasional service inconsistencies or charge confusion during happy hour
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; conservative palates may struggle

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$42-$60 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair samosas or brussels sprouts ($8-$11) with a main like lamb chops ($33) to balance richness and cost
Cocktail-focused diners should budget for two drinks

Perfect For

Cocktail-first date night with shareable plates
Small group catching a game from the bar
Vegetarian or vegan diners seeking modern options
Locals looking for a cozy neighborhood spot

Location Insights

Area: Lively food-centric corridor near Chez Panisse; mix of locals, students, and destination diners.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked evenings; typical urban street activity.

Nearby: Surrounded by acclaimed eateries, cafes, and neighborhood shops; bar seating for game viewing mentioned.

Downtown BerkeleyThe dining scene in Downtown Berkeley is diverse and lively, featuring a range of casual eateries, trendy cafes, and upscale restaurants. The area has a youthful and intellectual vibe due to the university presence, with many establishments catering to both quick bites and more refined dining experiences. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and culturally rich, often bustling with activity.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday17:00–21:30 Tuesday17:00–21:30 Wednesday17:00–21:30 Thursday17:00–21:30 Friday17:00–21:30 Saturday17:00–21:30 Sunday17:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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