Worth the Drive: Zeera Indian Restaurant

By David McCreary
Photography By Jonathan Fredin Apr 4, 2022

Enjoy a copious mixed platter featuring two types of chicken, lamb and shrimp.

Since opening in 2017, Zeera Indian Restaurant has steadily built a reputation for its quality cuisine,friendly service and serene locale. Fittingly, the family-run establishment recently earned a 2022 Best of Main & Broad (a Cary Magazine sister publication) Maggy Award.

“We are grateful that the community has responded to this concept, and we are passionate about what we believe in — authentic goodness,” says proprietor Avis Price, who hails from central India. “Our guests have become part of the Zeera family, and we feel like we are serving them in our home dining room.”

Offering a variety of robust flavors based on family recipes, the full-service restaurant serves traditional Indian cuisine that has been adapted to suit the palates of local clientele. The distinctive dishes include spices like turmeric, ginger, carom seeds and cumin, which is synonymous with the word “zeera.”

The crispy samosa starter comes stuffed with potatoes and peas

The eatery specializes in Indian flat breads, including more than a dozen varieties of naan. Order the rosemary or the garlic cheese naan, both of which are baked in a clay oven.

Among the standout appetizers, the crispy samosa with potatoes and peas and pakora (chickpea-battered fritters) are particularly noteworthy. But don’t miss the Zeera Special Chicken, which features deep-fried chicken marinated in spices and served atop fresh naan bread.

“The Zeera Special Chicken is an all-time favorite for a lot of people,” Price says.

The signature Zeera Special Chicken appetizer is sure to start your meal off on a high note.

If you’re the mood for something decidedly different, try the savory Mulligatawny Soup. It is composed of a rich chicken broth, blended yellow lentils and spices.

When it comes to entrees, tikka masala is a winning option. Chicken is a solid protein choice, but the lamb is even better. Tandoori-roasted chicken also will not disappoint.

Biryani and tandoori specialties abound. Consider splurging for the mixed platter, which includes a hearty portion of chicken and shrimp tandoori, lamb kabab and chicken Malai tandoori.

Guests appreciate Zeera’s tranquil atmosphere and efficient service.

Fourteen vegetarian main courses are available, half of which can be offered as vegan dishes. All entrees are served with Basmati rice. If you manage to save room for dessert, go for the carrot halwa with cashews and raisins or the mango custard with mixed fruit.

Be adventurous with your beverage selection. Consider the Masala Chai tea with cardamom, cloves and cinnamon or a refreshing yogurt-infused mango lassi with whipped cream.

Red and white wine is available by the glass and bottle. Indian bottled beer, domestic drafts and craft cocktails are all accessible.

Zeera’s dishes are generously portioned for sharing.

Zeera is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Reservations are accepted and are strongly recommended on Friday and Saturday evenings. Online ordering and takeout also are available.

“We are driven to continue earnestly serving our guests in the coming years by providing an exceptional dining experience,” Price says. “For us, mealtime is about more than food. It’s about connecting and sharing love.”