Aura, the first Indian restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Dining options are evolving in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Now you can have Indian cuisine right in the heart of the old historic town.
I dropped by the relatively new Aura on the Lake restaurant offering Indian cuisine, which opened in July 2022. It is the first Indian restaurant in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This upcoming season will be their first full summer since opening.
Nittin Sharma, owner and chef
I sat down with owner and chef, Nittin Sharma, who runs the restaurant with his wife, Anjna. This is Sharma’s first restaurant. He fell in love with the area, saw an opportunity and took a chance on himself, with the support of his wife.
As someone who loves Indian food and culture, I asked Sharma what his biggest observation has been.
“Most people think Indian dishes are hot and spicy.” But this is not always the case, he adds.
With that in mind, Sharma created a menu that has something for everyone, even for those who don’t like curries. They have vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are street food favourites such as Samosa Chaat, Dal Kachori, chicken fingers with fries and jalapeno poppers. For vegetarians, there are Indian classics such as dal and paneer tikka masala. For non-vegetarians, there is butter chicken, shrimp and lamb. For quick lunch meals there are burgers and rice bowls, and so much more.
samosa chaat (yummy!)
I tried the Samosa Chaat (chaat in Hindi means “to taste” or “to lick”): potato and peas stuffed samosas on a bed of chickpeas, with yogurt, the house signature chutneys and pomegranate seeds. It was delicious, with its tangy and spicy favours.
The restaurant interior is spacious and contemporary. There is a bar in addition to the dining room. The previous owners of the building did a marvellous job with the interior, which Sharma says he did not change when he took over the space because it was so well done.
Aura, located on King Street, is an ideal location as it is walking distance from the shops along Queen Street and other attractions, and a short walk to the lake. The staff is friendly and helpful.
I can’t wait to return to have another Samosa Chaat and try more dishes on the menu.
Location: 233 King Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON.
Website: https://www.auraonthelake.ca/
Shannon Skinner in an award-winning tv host/producer, speaker and writer, covering travel, wine and living well for women.
