Tulsi in Kittery, Maine on TV Diner- CLICK HERE for Video.

(TV Diner) - Carved into a small wooden sign in Kittery, Maine, the word "Tulsi" --flanked by two green basil leaves, marked the entrance to the restaurant reputed to have the best Indian food around.

The tiny candlelit dining room definitely said "India" with a classy subtle décor and the redolence of alluring exotic spices forecasted a provocative menu.

Our dish to start-- the grilled Vegetable Seek Kabobs---presented four unskewered pieces molded with finely minced vegetables and ethnic spices.

Cilantro and tamarind chutneys amplified the intriguing and delightful appetizer.

The poached Mussels Pooriyal prepared locally sourced shellfish in creamy curry sauce that hinted of a nutty undercurrent of coriander.

The essence of the tender quality mussels came through the great seasoning for a seafood dish that was a delicacy.

Curry pushed the heat again without punishing the palate in the delicious intense flavor of the Chicken Tikka Masala-a zingy dish with tender thigh meat sections.

And, the excellent Pork Vindaloo with potato and chunky fall-apart meat soaked up a perkier hot from thick flavorful stock that went well with our Aloo Paratha--a thin whole wheat bread stuffed with spiced potatoes.

Only two desserts were in the offering: The Rasmalai -a lightly sweet rice pudding--- was delicious as was the Kheer---two rounds of an unusual pleasantly firm brined cheese on a dulcet silky sauce. Sprinkled with ground pistachios, both desserts gave an amalgam of textures and soothing honey notes to end the great meal.

Our server was competent and pleasant. Quality of ingredients and decent portions gave an excellent value in all categories with appetizers six to ten-fifty, main course selections eight-fifty to twenty dollars and desserts four or six dollars.

Tulsi presents great food that is a high step up over most Indian restaurants. The noisy packed dining room is not at all a distraction because of enchanting meals that are a value in enjoyment and in the budget. Complementary chips, two chutneys and a bowl of fluffy white basmati rice add to the good value of the food rich in the use of yogurt, nuts and the elusive ethnicity of the spices eclectic to the regions of India.

Any globe trotting foodie would love it here. We did.

Tulsi earns the Gold Plate. Located at Two Government Street in Kittery, Maine it can be reached by calling 207-451-9511 or by visiting

www.tulsiindianrestaurant.com