Featured Choices
Taste what’s trending on the menu
Samosa(2pcs)
Tandoori Shrimp
Saag Aloo
Baingan Bhartha
About the Place
Masala Express
Nestled in the heart of Merced, California, Masala Express is a culinary gem for lovers of authentic Indian cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes you feel right at home. The owner’s genuine hospitality and the attentive service create a dining experience that goes beyond just the food.
Masala Express delivers on every front: the rich, full flavors of classic dishes like butter chicken, chili chicken, shahi paneer, and aloo tikki chaat are crafted with care and freshness that truly stands out. The lunch buffet offers variety and value, with unlimited naan that is perfectly soft and freshly baked, a highlight for any fan of Indian bread. Each plate brings bold spices and balanced flavors that reflect the depth of Indian culinary tradition.
The staff’s dedication to ensuring guest satisfaction adds an extra layer of comfort. From friendly greetings to personal recommendations by the owner, every detail is thoughtfully addressed. The restaurant maintains a clean, cozy vibe that encourages guests to relax and savor their meals at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian food or trying it for the first time, Masala Express provides a welcoming, flavorful, and top-tier experience that keeps customers coming back.
In short, Masala Express is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic, fresh, and expertly prepared Indian dishes paired with exceptional hospitality. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey through rich cultural flavors and warm community spirit.
Shared Experiences
Guestbook
“ The food was amazing and the environment of the restaurant was so cozy and friendly.The girl in the front was so kind to us ,very polite and welcoming staff.We had chili chicken ,dahi bhalla,shahi paneer so on. Everything was perfect.Overall, top-notch quality and great taste. ”
“ Food was delicious everything was on point . Service was exceptional from the time we stepped in until we left making sure we had everything we needed. The chef came out to make sure our food was as we expected. I food exceeded all expectations. The restaurant is very nice clean and relaxed.. makes you want to stay more time and enjoy. Absolutely recommend to all. A simply must try! ”
“ I had an amazing experience at Masala Express! Mandeep, the owner, truly sets the tone for the place — his hospitality is unmatched. He goes out of his way to make every guest feel welcome, and it shows in the overall vibe of the restaurant. The food is incredible — flavorful, fresh, and easily some of the best Indian food I’ve had in the area. Every dish tastes like it was made with real care. Service is quick, the staff is friendly, and the portions are generous. If you’re looking for a spot with top-tier food and exceptional customer service, Masala Express with Mandeep is the place. Highly recommend! ”
“ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My Boyfriend and I came to Masala Express Indian Cuisine for the lunch buffet (10am-2pm) and loved everything! The butter chicken was creamy and full of flavor, the rice and naan were perfect (and unlimited naan — yes please! ), and the chai latte was absolutely delicious. The place is super clean with a pretty, cozy vibe. Great food, friendly service, and such a nice spot for lunch. We’ll definitely be back! ”
“ From the moment we walked in, the owner, Sam, made us feel so welcome. He took great care of us and turned our visit into a culinary experience. He explained the dishes, answered our questions, and even brought us an appetizer (sev puri) that was absolutely amazing. We tried the butter chicken, chicken curry, naan, and the aloo tikki chaat. Everything was incredibly fresh, full of flavor, and made with great quality ingredients. The naan was honestly some of the best bread I’ve ever had. I left feeling not only full, but excited that we stepped out of our comfort zone and discovered something delicious. We will definitely be back! Highly recommend Masala Express if you’re looking to try something new or crave authentic, flavorful Indian food. ”