Cherry Hill’s food scene has no shortage of familiar options, but every so often, a new restaurant opens that feels distinct the moment you step inside. From the intentional design of the space to the thoughtfulness behind each offering, Bombay Express, an Indian-inspired restaurant that opened on Dec. 11, makes an impression that extends beyond food itself.
Ordering ahead for pickup felt refreshingly personal. Rather than rushing through the transaction, I was given the option to choose my spice level for the chicken tikka masala burrito, a small but meaningful gesture that reflected the care put into each order. Walking into the restaurant to pick up my food, I was immediately struck by how the space felt clean and welcoming. The interior was filled with artwork, warm colors and design elements that reflected Indian culture, setting it apart from the many restaurants that blur together in appearance.
The restaurant is owned and run by an Indian family, and that sense of pride and authenticity is evident throughout the experience. From the atmosphere to the menu, there is a clear effort to share culture through food in a way that feels genuine rather than commercial.
The restaurant also offers seating, making it equally suited for dining in or taking food to go. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet meal at home or sit down and immerse yourself in the atmosphere, both options feel thoughtful and considerate. The environment encourages you to engage with the culture behind the food, not just pass through it.
My order consisted of two samosas and a chicken tikka masala burrito, totaling $15 – a price that felt more than reasonable for the quality and portions. Once home, it was clear that the same attention extended beyond the restaurant itself. The food was neatly and securely packaged, making it easy to enjoy everything as intended.
The samosas were crisp and flavorful, offering a satisfying start to the meal. Overall, the chicken tikka masala burrito, however, was the standout. The chicken was tender and deeply seasoned, and the accompanying sauces complemented the spices rather than competing with them. The dish struck a careful balance, blending traditional Indian flavors with a modern twist that felt intentional rather than gimmicky.
Altogether, the experience felt cohesive, from the cultural design of the space to the customization of the order and the quality of the food itself. This restaurant is an excellent option for anyone who already enjoys Indian cuisine or is interested in exploring new cultural flavors in a way that feels approachable and well executed. The combination of friendly service, thoughtful presentation, an inviting atmosphere and reasonable pricing makes it a strong addition to Cherry Hill’s dining scene. As an added bonus, an ice cream parlor located right next door makes it easy to turn a meal into a complete outing.
For a restaurant only a few months into its opening, Bombay Express already shows confidence in both its identity and execution, and those factors make it worth visiting.