The Diva's opted for a more ethnic food genre at Pondicheri (2800 Kirby Dr.) on their fifth Diva Dining experience. This Indian eatery is located in the West Ave center at the corner of Kirby Dr. and Westheimer. The space is open with high ceilings, and clear glass garage doors, giving it the appearance and feel of being a larger space than it is. The interior boasts traditional, vibrant shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow giving it warm, modern vibe of India. 
It was packed when the Diva's arrived at 8 o'clock on Friday. Pondicheri only allows for reservations of parties with 8 or more and there were only 6 Divas in attendance this evening. The wait was 45 minutes so we grabbed cocktails at the bar. (note: beer and wine only--no liquor)
Pondicheri is an non-traditional Indian restaurant, thanks to a TX twist and the use of local and organic foods. Pondicheri chefs employ a method called Ayurveda with their food, an ancient Indian practice that uses the natural power of spices and food for health benefits. The restaurant pride's itself in using local, organic ingredients, offering a purist eating experience to it's diners. The Diva's were pleased with this knowledge, since it just might have saved us a few hundred calories on our daily caloric budget.
After we were seated Diva Shelbs noticed there was a water leak from the ceiling giving her an unwanted water refill.
For drinks the Divas sampled the wine and beer cocktails and sampled the Whist, Razzle, and Mangosa. The Whist was a "Pinot Grigio infused with ginger and honey and served with fresh mint." The Razzle is concocted with "sparkling wine with raspberry and rosemary." Lastly the Mangosa was made with "sparkling wine with mango and blueberries." All were tasty but out of the three the Divas decided the Razzle was the least favorite.
For appetizers, the Divas decided on the Indian Sampler and the Pav Bhaji. The Indian Sampler is great way to test out a variety of foods. It includes a crunchy shell shaped like a small bite size tea cup (pictured below on left) that is filled with yummy Indian ingredients. It is delicious and has a variety of textures and flavors.
For the main entrees the Divas ordered theTandoori Chicken Burger, Rancher Tali, and Chicken Frankie. All were great. The burgers were served with delicious fries that had an extra limey taste and a tasty specialty sauce made by Pondicheri to substitute for ketchup. The Chicken Frankie was delicious as well. At first glance it resembles a burrito giving credence to Pondicheri's southern twist. (pictured above in middle)
As the meal progessed, the wait staff neglected to clear dirty dishes from the starters empty cocktail glasses from the already-cramped table, causing the Diva's space to become pretty staff. The staff also forgot to bring 2 of the divas their 2nd round of cocktails towards the end of the meal.
Overall, Pondicheri had delicious food but it is better suited for a smaller group of 4 or less for lunch or an early dinner. The staff certainly could have been more attentive as well. Two final notes of interest: Pondicheri hosts special Vegan Monday's and have a small counter by the entrance for fresh- baked goods, coffee, or tea for those looking for something to pick up and go.
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