At the heart of Indian cuisine lies one of its most iconic cooking methods: tandoori. At Empyrean Indian Kitchen + Bar in Hoboken, NJ, the mastery of this ancient Biryani near Hoboken is on full display. Their tandoori dishes are not just meals—they are culinary experiences rich in flavor, aroma, and tradition.
So, what exactly is tandoori cooking? It involves marinating meats, seafood, or vegetables in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and Indian spices, then roasting them in a clay oven called a tandoor. The intense heat of the tandoor—often exceeding 900°F—sears the food, locking in moisture and creating a signature smoky flavor and charred finish.
Empyrean’s chefs take this method seriously, starting with a carefully prepared marinade. Each cut of chicken, lamb, or paneer is coated in a spice blend made from scratch, including ingredients like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, ginger, and garlic. The marinated ingredients are then left to absorb the flavors for several hours to ensure depth and complexity.
Some of the most popular tandoori dishes at Empyrean include:
Tandoori Chicken – A classic favorite, featuring bone-in chicken marinated overnight and grilled to perfection. It arrives sizzling and aromatic, with crispy edges and tender meat.
Chicken Tikka – Boneless chicken cubes that are juicy on the inside and slightly charred on the outside. Served with mint chutney and onions, it’s perfect as an appetizer or entrée.
Paneer Tikka – A vegetarian delight, this dish features thick slices of paneer (Indian cheese) grilled alongside bell peppers and onions, offering a perfect mix of textures.
Tandoori Mixed Grill – A crowd-pleaser, this platter includes an assortment of chicken, lamb, and shrimp, giving diners a full spectrum of tandoori flavors.
What makes Empyrean’s tandoori dishes stand out is the balance between authenticity and refinement. Each dish retains its traditional roots while being served with the finesse and presentation of a modern dining experience.
Whether you're dining in or ordering online, these tandoori specialties are a must-try. They embody the skill, passion, and cultural richness that define Empyrean Indian Kitchen + Bar.