Namaskaar's almost there

The newly downscaled Namaskaar at 120 Grand Ave. in Englewood is nearly ready to open - it just needs a few more permits, owner Adarsh Saigal said today in an interview in the new space. He's now estimating an opening on Friday, Jan. 18.

Namaskaar cleared out of its 175-seat space on Route 4 in Paramus (it's now Mantra) and has completely redone the former Cafe Local in Englewood. The new restaurant has only 25 seats and is simply decorated, with plush chairs and granite tables from India and a flat-screen television on the wall. The concept is to create a casual, non-fussy place for a neighborhood dinner, Saigal said.

The BYO restaurant will be moderately priced - appetizers run from $3 to $6, while entrees are $8 to $16. It's mostly classic Indian dishes like samosas, chicken tikka masala, lamb vindaloo, Goan shrimp curry and tandoori chicken, salmon and shrimp. They'll do takeout and free delivery (with a $15 minimum) and plan to be open every day.