Hidden Gem: This Delicious Indian Spot Is Tucked Away In Southern Ocean

WEST CREEK, NJ — Ocean County is something of an Indian food desert. If you want pizza or Chinese, there's a million different spots to choose from. But if you're looking for some authentic curry or biryani, your only option is Aamantran in Toms River. That is, it was your only option, until now.

One of the newest (and possibly greatest) hidden gems in Ocean County recently opened in tiny West Creek, an unincorporated community in Eagleswood. Loving Kitchen is perhaps the very definition of a hidden gem. It's located on Route 9 in a wooded area inside a small building behind a gas station. But don't let looks deceive you. You can find some of the most flavorful and delicious Indian dishes around in this tucked away spot.

Loving Kitchen fills in a gap in Southern Ocean with its authentic Indian offerings. The restaurant has two menus - one with meat-based meals, the other vegetarian. The spice level of the dishes are also customized to your preference.

And these menus are delightful. The gobi manchurian (fried cauliflower covered in sauce) is crispy and flavorful, and could probably fool a non-vegetarian into thinking it's meat.

For a main dish, the mushroom tikka masala was delicious and bright. Garlic naan was the perfect side dish and the basmati rice tied everything together. There's plenty more on the menu that looked equally good as well.

Plus, service is quick and friendly.

It's great to have another food option in Southern Ocean, especially a cuisine that the area lacks. It's worth giving Loving Kitchen a visit if you're in the area - and if you're not nearby, you should make the visit anyway. It's definitely worth it.

For more information about Loving Kitchen, check out their website or their Facebook page.

Got a hidden gem you think more people should know about? Patch is highlighting all sorts of hidden gems around Ocean County. Tell us all about it by sending an email to veronica.flesher@patch.com.