Hello dear
Welcome To Samira Restaurant
Samira Restaurant, located at 100 W 6th St, Bloomington, IN, offers an inviting atmosphere complemented by sumptuous Afghan cuisine. Renowned for its flavorful kebabs—ranging from lamb to shrimp—each dish exudes authenticity, showcased in items like the Combination Special, which features marinated meats served with traditional sides like quabili and manto. Guests frequently rave about the friendly service, cozy decor, and delightful complimentary offerings such as grilled eggplant and fresh bread. With a diverse selection of soups, salads, and entrees, Samira delights both newcomers and seasoned diners, making it the go-to spot for those seeking a savory culinary journey.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Baba Ganouj
Salmon Salad
Lamb Kebaab
Cornish Hen Kebaab
About
Samira Restaurant
Welcome to Samira Restaurant, where the rich tapestry of Afghan cuisine unfolds in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere! Nestled in the heart of Bloomington at 100 W 6th St, this culinary gem awaits those seeking an authentic taste of Afghanistan. Imagine stepping into a cozy yet spacious locale adorned with charming hanging lamps, faux greenery, and a striking mural that sets the perfect backdrop for a delightful dining experience.
As a food reviewer for Foodjoyy, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a menu that showcases a beautiful blend of flavors and textures. From the moment you’re greeted by the warm and friendly staff, you’ll feel at home. The restaurant's commendable service complements the exciting lineup of dishes that are both comforting and exciting for the palate.
The entrees here are a celebration of traditional Afghan flavors. Don’t miss the Mahi Tchallao, a succulent North Atlantic cod prepared with fragrant herbs, spices, and a zesty hint of lemon. Served alongside quabili, manto, and sambosa, it's a feast that captures the essence of Afghan cooking for just $15.95. Or indulge in the mouth-watering Combination Special, featuring your choice of lamb, chicken, or Cornish hen, beautifully accompanied by the beloved quabili and manto.
Vegetarians will find plenty to relish with options like the hearty Vegetarian Manto, intricately filled with cabbage, onion, and cilantro, then drizzled with a homemade spiced yogurt sauce. This dish strikes the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, available for $14.95. However, it’s the bustling lunch buffet that has patrons raving, a delightful option packed with both meat and vegetarian fare, promising satisfaction in every bite.
The warm reactions of diners only affirm Samira's exemplary reputation. Customers like Moonbeam Chandler describe the buffet as a loaded experience of delightful flavors, while Eric Cesare applauds the restaurant for offering an array of tasty fare in a chic setting that exceeds expectations. Every plate delivered bursts with freshness, as evidenced by the complimentary grilled eggplant and carrots that diners can't help but rave about.
Whether you are savoring classic dishes or taking a chance on something new, Samira Restaurant invites you to leave behind the mundane and embrace a world of flavor. With its carefully crafted menu and warm atmosphere, it has quickly become a must-visit culinary destination in Bloomington. So, if your taste buds are craving something extraordinary, look no further than Samira Restaurant—you won't be disappointed!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ I went to Samira for the lunch buffet today. First off, the atmosphere is cozy yet still spacious. They have fake plants hanging from the ceiling and beautiful hanging lamps annnd an awesome giant mural in the back. I was immediately greeted and seated by a very kind hostess who brought me bread and baklava. There was a mix of meat and vegetarian options for the buffet. The different flavors went well together and was a huge delight. I'm so used to my awful cooking! I ate two whole plates and am stuffed. I will definitely be returning. ”
“ I just want to say, what kind people! I work at the tea shop nearby. A man came in asking if I had change I could exchange for some bills he had. I exchanged it and then he told me he would be right back. Next thing I see, he came back in with a whole meal for me! And honestly, what an amazing meal. Thank you, you made my day! ”
“ A really terrific change of flavor! As an Indy resident, Afghan or really any West Asian food is hard to come by, so it was an easy choice to land on Samira for my latest trip to Bloomington. The restaurant has a chic, comfortable vibe and friendly, fast service to compliment. I sat at a two top at the front of the dining room facing the street and the mirrors made for extra good people watching while I dined. I was surprised by the complimentary grilled eggplant and carrots along with a basket of fresh bread. I probably could have just doubled down by ordering extras of those and been happy and full. They both had so much flavor! For my entre I asked for the quabili pallao with lamb and was brought a true, heaping helping of basmati topped with so much delicious lamb, veggies, seasoning, and sauce. I cleaned the whole plate (which impressed even me) and which I would have had room for more. The super aromatic, slightly spicy and rich flavors were all so good. Oh, gosh, and I almost forgot the house salad! It was such a treat, herbaceous, acidic, crunchy and fresh. I really was stuffed (in the best way) by time I left. Don't think twice if you are in Bloomington and looking for something different and delicious! ”
“ Neet place to try! Food was incredible, staff was very helpful and pleasant for a newbie. Amazing steak kabobs, the beef dumplings where also wonderful ”
“ This is the best food I had during my short visit in Bloomington! Ordered "Combination special" with Lamb kebab (23.95) that comes with quabili (Afghanistan's national dish with core ingredients of steamed rice mixed with caramelized carrots and raisins as well as marinated lamb meat, according to internet), manto (dumplings typically consist of a spiced meat mixture) and sambosa. It also came with a soup or salad; I went with red lentil soup. The bread and grilled eggplants are free. Everything was great! I was really sad about various restaurants in the area that had let me disappointed in the past few days; I am so glad that I made the right decision, with stomach filled great food, cook and season just right, for the last night in town. I would totally came back to visit and come to this place again. This is officially my favorite restaurant in Bloomington! ”
“ Food was amazing and the atmosphere and service was great! We ordered the Lamb Kebab and Roasted Salmon - the lamb kebab was cooked to our preference, and the roasted salmon was cooked really well - super tender and not dry at all! Overall, food was really great! ”
“ Great food and service. Not the typical restaurant you’d find in a college town, but it was great. The portions are just right, and the flavor incredible. ”
“ Pleasantly surprised at how delicious the food was. Highly recommend this place. ”