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Clay Pit

4.2

About this business

Set in an attractive stone building, Clay Pit serves mostly North Indian food. The chef Maqbool Ahmed is the real McCoy, having served a stint at the Oberoi Hotel in New Delhi, and has brought his panache for the tandoor to Austin. A must eat at this restaurant is the tandoori platter bedecked with chicken, lamb, broccoli, tomatoes and even zucchini. As always, Indian restaurants are a haven for vegetarians and this is no exception, serving dahl, paneer and a lot of veggie curries. 

Location details

1601 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX, 78701, United States

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WeekdayScheduleStatus
Mon9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Tue9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wed9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thu9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Fri9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
SatClosed
SunClosed
4.27,628 reviews
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mediums's profile image
18 years ago

Food is good but too rich, noise level is unpleasant – I have been to this restaurant a number of times over the past years. The food is consistently good, nicely spiced, and creative. The service has always been gracious. The main factor that keeps me from going there more often is that the noise level is truly deafening. It is nearly impossible to have a nice conversation over dinner, and you have to practically scream to the server. On top of the general din and clatter, they pipe in some hectic-sounding music. The food i... read more

tone1's profile image
18 years ago

Good Food-Loud and Slow – Very good Indian food for American palates. Good variety, good portions (not the Cheescake Factory-obesity portions here). The sitting/waiting is problem. On several visits we had to wait 5-10 mins while most of the tables were empty. Get people seated and a drink order started! 

coog78's profile image
18 years ago

Diamond in the rough of Austin – I am a huge fan of the Clay Pit. The food here is spicy if you like, or creamy and rich if you prefer. I was sat in the converted cellar downstairs and loved it! It is very romantic and the service is actually pretty attentive. Specialty drinks here are also recommended and you gotta love thr bread. In a city that truly lacks decent cuisine, Clay Pit is unusually metropolitan. 

jelias1989's profile image
jelias1989 
18 years ago

Excellent Time had by All – Wow!, What can I say. Went on a Friday night, busy which I took as a good sign. We started at the bar area with the Mango infused martinis and apps (Samosa's and the Curried Mussels) Oh my gosh they're fresh!!!. We had to wait only because they are hopping but you could tell everyone was working hard. There were several large parties that were there that night and they all looked like they were very happy. We were sat downstairs in the Cellar, Highly recommend if on a date...Romantic!!! Our server... read more

cachaka's profile image
18 years ago

decent food, horrific service – I've been eating at The Clay Pit for years, and in recent months I have gone at least once a week. There are some select people there that are genuinely nice toward the patrons, but they are the exception. There are way to many other Indian restaurants in Austin now that at least show a modicum of accommodation toward their customers. The Clay Pit does not. 

tiffanesh's profile image
tiffanesh 
18 years ago

excellent indian food! – my fiance & i went there on a friday night, with reservations, and it was wonderful! we did not have to wait, were seated promptly, had a very nice server and the food was amazing!! my fiance is from India so he knows authentic indian food...and he loved it! we're even considering having the Clay Pit cater our wedding next year! To those who complain about the "long wait"......isn't that to be expected at an awesome austin restaurant on the weekend?? it is an elegant restaurant, not fast food people.... read more

katieshep's profile image
katieshep 
18 years ago

mediocre at best – Both my husband and myself were very disappointed in this restaurant. After waiting an hour, the food that brought to use was very disappointing. This was probably the worst lamb korma and sag paneer i have ever eaten. If you like authentic indian food, DON'T eat here. 

obreman's profile image
18 years ago

Good for those new to Indian food. – The Clay Pit serves Americanized Indian food and is a good stepping stone for beginners. In my opinion, the best dishes are located under "Specialties of the House." Khuroos-E-Tursh combines chicken breast stuffed with seasoned spinach, mushrooms, onions & cheese, simmered in a rich cashew-almond sauce with a hint of sweetness, and served with basmati rice. Kabuli Chicken is comprised of boneless chicken cooked in korma sauce (a paste made from raisins & cherries). Kothmir Salmon is a hea... read more

Contributor's profile image
Contributor 
18 years ago

This restaurant offers Indian cuisine in an elegant, sophisticated space. – In Short The cool bar and expansive space in the old Bertram building have made the Clay Pit a draw for young downtown diners in quest of authentic Indian food. Waiters bring entrees in separate bowls or platters, also making it a destination for groups. The tandoori platter lets you sample meats and vegetables grilled in the namesake ovens. Vegetarians have much to choose from, including paneer tikka masala: cheese smothered in tomato, butter, cream... read more

Frequently asked questions about Clay Pit

How is Clay Pit rated?

Clay Pit has a 4.2 star rating with 7,628 reviews. 

When is Clay Pit open?

Clay Pit is closed now. It will open tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. 

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