It’s safe to say that this fall there was a high degree of anticipation around a new Indian restaurant coming to Edgartown. Fortunately, Babu Kognati and his team at Indigo restaurant have met the moment, transforming the former Sharky’s Cantina Edgartown location into an airy, year-round restaurant featuring a wide range of traditional Indian dishes with a few modern twists. Oh, yes, and it happens to be delicious too.

The standouts are classic Indian dishes, including those made in the clay oven (tandoor), a variety of curries (both vegetarian and meat-based) and rice dishes (biryani). There are seven types of house-made naan bread, served warm with two dipping sauces. If you like spicy, try the onion chili naan; the onions and chilis make an excellent contrast with the soft bread.

Indigo can be a night out for everyone in the group, with vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options available. These are generous portions: each curry entrée can feed two, and the appetizers could feed two to three people. Those with a sweet tooth will find something appealing on the Indian-flavored dessert list. There are also a few items for the picky eater in the bunch, including pasta with tomato or cream sauce and a cheeseburger. The food travels well, so takeout is a great option if you’d rather eat at home.

The spacious bar is a handy spot for drinks or for dining and watching a game on one of two televisions. Indigo has an extensive wine list, eight beers on tap, craft cocktails and mocktails. (The Masala Fizz is a standout non-alcoholic option.) With two dining room spaces and a renovated outdoor deck, groups of all sizes (including those with strollers) can be accommodated. There is plenty of parking, and it’s open for lunch too.

The welcoming staff and fresh, vibrant flavors at Indigo will surely make it a year-round favorite for Islanders who want to embrace the flavors of India. Following are five things we love, though you’ll find plenty more to explore on the menu.

Five Favorites

1) The OG Butter Chicken ($26) An Indian staple, butter chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish: boneless chicken pieces are simmered in a mildly-spiced creamy tomato curry sauce. This version does not disappoint, and is served with plain Basmati rice. Available in mild, medium or spicy. Stick with the mild if it’s your first visit.

2) Mixed Veg Biryani ($22) Fragrant warm spices elevate Basmati rice in this vegetarian dish. Mixed with tons of vegetables (including peas, green beans, carrots, corn and sautéed onions), chunks of paneer (a soft cheese common in Indian cuisine) and topped with fresh mint, it makes a satisfying main course.

3) Spinach Pakora ($16) This vegetarian appetizer is a perfect shareable dish to start the evening. These bite-sized spinach leaves are coated in gram (chickpea) flour mixed with Indian spices and then deep-fried. The result is a plate of light, crispy bites to dip in the sweet tamarind sauce and bright, tangy mint chutney served alongside. Served with a pint of beer or a mocktail, this might just become your new favorite bar snack.

4) Lamb Saag ($28) This comforting, creamy stew combines classic Indian spices like garam masala in a spinach sauce with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of braised lamb. It is served with plain Basmati rice.

5) Malai Kofta ($25) Traditionally served at festivals and celebrations in India, this dish features potato-vegetable dumplings (similar to potato croquettes) served in a spiced, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce made with cashews. It feels decadent and tastes delicious, whether you’re celebrating or not.

Indigo

268 Upper Main street, Edgartown

(508) 939-4030

Open 7 days, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Reservations available online.

Takeout orders by phone only.

indigomarthas.com

@indigo_marthas

Laura Holmes Haddad is a former cookbook editor and a regular contributor to The Vine.

All photos by Ray Ewing.