Mazza Indian Cuisine and Luigi’s the Original

Restaurant veteran Molly Abraham noshes around town, tracking down some top spots.
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Luigi’s Gourmet Veggie Pizza, with broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, and red onion. // Photograph by Joe Vaughn

Mazza Indian Cusine: Veteran chef Abdul Noor’s menu skims the vast Indian repertoire, and the food that emerges from his kitchen is varied and flavorful, spiced with blends of freshly ground spices and served in a well-appointed dining room (formerly Passage to India). From well-balanced mulligatawny soup and such dishes as chicken breast in a creamy yogurt-raisin-almond sauce, and lamb pall, a spicy, stew-like dish, to the many vegetarian selections, this is a notable addition to the Indian options around town. 3354 W. 12 Mile Rd., Berkley; 248-543-6299. L & D Mon.-Sat., D Sun. $15.

Luigi’s The Original: It’s elbow-to-elbow when crowded, which is most of the time. And with its red-and-white checked tablecloths and strings of little red and green lights around knotty-pine paneling, it’s the very model of a vintage roadhouse. A big, sweeping menu offers everything from fish, seafood, and prime rib to pasta and pizza — all well prepared. Although the place has been around for generations, the current owners, who took over in 1993, have preserved its venerable aura and friendly, efficient service. 36691 Jefferson, Harrison Township; 586-468-7711. D daily. $17.