Rangmahal

Rangmahal is one of the veteran Indian restaurants along Broadway in Hicksville. It has been consistent over the years. And these days, the crowded eatery is a magnet for anyone who needs a jolt of spice.

They'll ask how spicy you'd like the dishes designated with a little red pepper. The scale: 1 to 10. By the time you reach 8, you may need an asbestos liner. But it's not harsh spicing. Actually, it's very balanced and quite good, especially with the vindaloos, chicken-lamb-goat-or-fish; chana masala, the chick pea course; and vegetables with red chilies.

But Rangmahal cools off with overdone vegetable fritters and spinach kebabs and cashew rolls. Try the samosas instead, and savor the house's fine breads.

Rangmahal is at 355 S. Broadway, Hicksville; 516-942-7256