Masala Wok, web site, Fairfax Marketplace, 10940 Fairfax Blvd., Suite J, Fairfax, VA, 571-432-1814. There is also a branch at Herndon Parkway Crossing, 905 Herndon Parkway, Suite A, Herndon, VA, 703-657-0216 (Metro Trip Planner – opens in new window) [WaPo | zabihah | Yelp]
Whenever an Indian restaurant has the word “wok” in its title you can expect something from the northwest and some spicy, ginger-laden dishes. This place runs against the current buffet trend to offer you quick-serve Indian dishes which you order at the counter. I’m surprised how good this place has turned out to be. The spicy dishes are truly spicy.
Most of all the dishes have real flavor and real taste. I recommend the Coconut Curry, spicy, but everything I’ve had here has been good. Think of it as the Chipotle of Indian food. The prices are also very reasonable. Recommended.
It’s been inconsistent in the past year or so–the Herndon location is about two blocks away from me so it’s a regular spot. The coconut curry used to be the best thing on the menu and is now hit-or-miss. Also, sometimes you will ask for “spicy” and get something barely above tomato paste, and sometimes “medium” will be tongue-burning. It’s still good, just not outstanding.