If you're hungry at 11am on Sunday in Pleasanton, your options are limited. After driving around aimlessly for a while, we gave up and headed for McDonald's. Pulling into the strip mall we noticed a little Indian restaurant with a Grand Opening sign. Peeking my head in I discovered two nice surprises. First, cricket was playing on a big-screen TV. Second, a lunch buffet was laid out that actually looked appetizing. Sitting down, the food delivered on that first impression. Everything was fresh and delicious. The chicken tandoori was moist and well-seasoned, the goat curry was tender and complex, the fried rice was homey and satisfying. They even had chicken pakora (Indian chicken nuggets). A basket of very fresh, light, and airy naan was also brought to our table. Desserts included rice pudding, fruit, and gulab jamun (sweet dough balls). The staff was also very friendly. We'll definitely be back.

I haven't been impressed with the few Indian restaurants in Pleasanton, but I was pleasantly surprised by this place. When I walked in I was greeted right away and even though I was getting my order to go I was sat at a table and given a beverage. I ordered samosas and a tandoori chicken kabob. The kabob was delicious and just spicy enough, it came with grilled peppers and the only thing I would have added to the dish is some rice. I plan on visiting Ashoka soon; it is reasonably priced, great service and most important delicious!