Origin India is one of the most authentic Indian restaurants in Vegas. And by "authentic" we don't mean "stodgy." This restaurant is genuine, but with a twist. If you'd like to learn more about it -- complete with tidbits like how to dress and what the best seating is for your party -- please read on.

Reservations are recommended but not required; they can be made by calling the restaurant directly or by clicking the "Make a Reservation" link below.

Seating at Origin India is comfortable. While not oversized, it's more than generous. Chairs are armless and upholstered in brown leather. The actual seat area is about 17 inches in diameter. These chairs are found throughout the entire restaurant, from the main dining area to the bar to the private dining areas. All are incredibly comfortable with space to maneuver and are incredibly well structured for a delightful dining experience.

"Authentic" is the word that comes to mind once you step inside Origin India. But not to worry: If you're new to Indian cuisine, or have a sensitive palate, you can customize the spice level in your food to suit your tastes. Our server, Ronald, was very helpful -- especially when it came to helping us choose our own preferred spice level. Crisp white napkins contrast nicely with the sturdy dark wood tables, which during the evening hold sparkling candles that create even more elegance. That elegance is furthered by faux candles throughout the restaurant -- especially in the two private dining areas, which are the most mood-lit parts of the restaurant. Despite the candlelight, the restaurant is still plenty bright thanks to spotlights that assist in the main dining areas. Music plays throughout, but is completely unobtrusive. Authentic paintings and tapestries throughout make you feel as if you've walked off the Strip and into an elegant Indian home, or an upscale restaurant in a quaint Indian city. In short, this is not the usual décor for an Indian restaurant. Rather, it's that of a fine-dining Indian restaurant. If you want the best seat in the house, reserve one of the private dining areas but keep the draperies open so that you can watch the action in the dining room. If you can't secure one of the private dining areas, don't worry: All tables are truly comfortable.

The restrooms have same-level access as the main dining room and are located near the main entrance.

The dress code is business casual.

Because it's located in the Paradise Esplanade, which is a shopping center, there's plenty of gratis parking available steps from the entrance of Origin India. If you don't have a car, any cab will take you there, as it's located just west of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and east of Las Vegas Boulevard. If you can't make it there, they do deliver!

Origin India has received its share of awards. Chef Singh was invited to cook at the James Beard House in February 2010, for instance, and the Las Vegas Review Journal named it in its Top 10 List for 2009 and 2006. Also, the Nevada Restaurant Association awarded Raja Majid its Good Neighbor Award in 2008. Additionally, the restaurant was featured on Rachael Ray's Tasty Travels in 2008. Because this off-Strip gem is only starting to get the recognition it deserves, many more accolades are sure to come.

*Please note that the restaurants featured at TravelsinTaste.com may have changed their personnel, menu, pricing, decor, hours of operation, etc., since our last visit. The competitive and creative nature of the fine dining scene virtually assures that changes will occur on a frequent basis in order to make diners happier, meals more pleasurable and visits more frequent. Given their frequent fluctuations, most restaurants welcome inquiries about their current hours, menu and more.