Cafe Raj

Specialties

Café Raj is an authentic northern Indian eatery in Albany serving delicious lunch, dinner and takeout made with the best ingredients available. We take the time to select these ingredients for each dish, from our lean cuts of meat that are always hormone, steroid and antibiotic-​free to our complex blends of spices and fresh vegetables. We make everything in-​house, from our bread dough and ground spice blends to our samosas and desserts. Each dish is made to order, and our open kitchen allows you to watch the magic happens as our chefs prepare your meal.

The food at Café Raj is served family-​style, in generous portions to encouraging sampling and sharing of our many tasty dishes. Whether you are new to Indian food or pride yourself on your discerning and sophisticated palate, we have the perfect option for you. We are known for our impressive vegetarian and vegan options, as well as the always-​popular Chicken Tikka Masala.

History

Established in 1999.

Café Raj opened in February of 1999 as a tiny neighborhood restaurant with six tables, high hopes and delicious, consistent curries and tandoori grills. In 2003, we expanded to twice our original size, creating much more room for dining while maintaining our open kitchen and cozy atmosphere. Now in our second decade, Café Raj remains committed to providing perfectly-​balanced food served with a smile. We appreciate each of our customers, and hope that when you leave you feel like family.

Meet the Business Owner

Raj R.

Business Owner

Café Raj Chef and Owner Mahd «Raj» Raja came to Albany from Pakistan by way of Paris, France, where he lived for more than a decade and got his start in the restaurant business. While in France, Raj learned the critical importance of perfectly-​balanced sauces and fresh, local ingredients. Raj’s time in France also prepared him well for the sophisticated palates of discerning East Bay diners. A perfectionist by nature, Raj personally selects his ingredients and prepares each dish to order. His greatest delight is exceeding his customers’ expectations, and getting to know people who start out as honored guests and develop into friends. His wife, Rosemarie, manages the business. After meeting and marrying in Paris, the two came to Albany to start their life together and open a restaurant of their own. The rest is history in the making.