Galaxy, along with its sister restaurant New Galaxy (on Avenida Martires de Machava, opposite A Esquina tapas bar), is hands down the best Indian restaurant in Maputo; a feat validated by a loyal customer base of Indian and Pakistani diners, as well as Mozambicans and expats. It can be tough to find great Indian cuisine in southern Africa, but Galaxy does it perfectly, from the classic Tandoori chicken dishes, to the spicy bhindi masala (made with okra), to eight kinds of flatbreads for dipping.

The decor at both restaurants isn’t much to shout about; the tables and chairs are simple, and both places feel a little bare, although the booths at the original Galaxy are fun on date night. Neither restaurant is licensed to serve alcohol, so if you’re craving a beer with your curry, you’re better off ordering from the takeout/delivery menu instead. Service is generally fast (for Maputo) and comes with a smile.

Start with a sweet or salty lassi (or a mango lassi, if they haven’t run out) – a smooth yoghurt drink that’s popular in India. Beef samosas and bhajis, made with onion, make a good appetizer if you’re eating with friends. For mains, some swear by the silky butter chicken (220 Mets), while the chicken tikka Masala (230 Mets) is tender and comforting. Don’t overlook the vegetable dishes; the aloo mutter (170 Mets) is great for sharing, and the chickpea chana masala (160 Mets) or lentil Dahl (110 Mets) make nice companions. Raita yoghurt sauce takes out the heat, while paratha bread (25 Mets a pop) is perfect for dipping, as are the four types of Naan bread. There’s also a range of Indian-influenced pizzas for those not keen on curry.

In short, there’s nothing fancy about Galaxy, but the food it serves is perfect comfort fodder; cooked to perfection, fast and delicious. We can’t get enough.