Idly Express - Almaden

Indian Restaurant $ 4.5 (206)


Idly Express offers a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine that stands out for its flavorful idlis and sambar. The takeaway format is preferable, and while the service can vary, the genuine flavors keep customers returning for more.

Overall:

4.5

(176 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

3.4

Service:

4.0


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (408) 440-2401

Address: 4750 Almaden Expy suite 104, San Jose, CA 95118, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available

Offerings

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Coffee
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Outdoor Seating

Good for

  • Good for Children

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Free Parking Lot
  • Free Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Parking
  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" Due to the overwhelming positive reviews, I had high expectations for Idly Express, but it fell short during my visit. The service was quite slow even with only a few customers ahead of me. The idlis themselves were decent but lacking that homemade touch. I was really hoping for a richer sambhar too; it just tasted average. It’s a small restaurant, and the seating options are limited which adds to the inconvenience. This was more of a hit and miss for me. I might return, but not anytime soon. " (*Curated Review*)

" I absolutely loved my experience at Idly Express! The idlis were incredibly soft, and the sambar had a nice balance of spices without being overly sweet, which is a pet peeve of mine. The filter coffee was strong and refreshing, perfect after a long day. The ambiance is a bit sparse, but that didn't detract from the fantastic food. I will definitely return for takeout, as it's become my go-to for South Indian cuisine in the area! Overall, a gem in Almaden! " (*Curated Review*)

" Absolutely rave about Idly Express! I think the secret is in their ingredients—everything tastes so fresh and authentic. The idlis were fluffy, perfect, and paired beautifully with both sambhar and coconut chutney. I've taken friends along, and every single one of them loves it! While the place is small, it's always clean, and the staff is quite nice despite the rush hours. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to indulge in true South Indian flavor! " (*Curated Review*)

" Idly Express is, in a word, delightful! Their south Indian fare is authentic, and the mini idli tray is my favorite comfort food. The sambhar compliments everything perfectly—it always comes piping hot! I did have some issues with the noise level during lunch hours; it got pretty hectic in there. Overall, the cozy yet busy atmosphere adds to the charm, and I look forward to making this a regular stop in my food rotation. " (*Curated Review*)

" If you're seeking authentic South Indian food, look no further! Idly Express nails it on flavor and freshness. Their mini tiffin is a winner for anyone who loves variety, and the sambhar is second to none. I was particularly impressed with their level of spice; it felt just right. Their environment is friendly for a local eatery, just keep in mind it's primarily a takeout place. I will keep coming back for more! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (166)

" My last visit was quite disappointing. While the idlis were fine, they were lacking the flavor I remembered from earlier visits. The sambar was also lacking in quantity, which is a letdown considering how essential it is to enjoy the idlis fully. For the price, I'd expect a bit more effort into the portions and taste consistency. It's hard for me to recommend this place with such variations in quality. Hoping they address this soon, as I wish to continue dining here. " (*Curated Review*)

" Idly Express is a fantastic little eatery that never fails to impress me with their food! Their idlis are light and fluffy, and the sambhar is packed with authentic flavors. I love that they cater to dietary restrictions as well. Just keep in mind that it's mostly about takeout and minimal dining options. Most importantly, if you haven’t tried their filter coffee, you are missing out! " (*Curated Review*)

More reviews not shown...

Have been to Idly Express - Almaden? Share your experience with other people!

Please enter at least 15 characters.
no selection

Top rated nearby

Asma's Kitchen
Mediterranean Restaurant $

Overall:

4.9

(14 reviews)

Authenticity:

5.0

Atmosphere:

4.4

Service:

4.7

Address: 1505 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

WOWMIA PIZZA
Pizza Restaurant

Overall:

5.0

(54 reviews)

Authenticity:

5.0

Atmosphere:

5.0

Service:

5.0

Address: 2951 Monterey Rd Unit 50, San Jose, CA 95111, USA

The Old Spaghetti Factory
Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(3016 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.2

Atmosphere:

4.7

Service:

4.3

Address: 51 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

Maggiano's Little Italy
Italian Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.6

(3144 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.1

Address: 3055 Olin Ave Suite 1000, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

Agua Salada (Contemporary Mexican Seafood)
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

5.0

(46 reviews)

Authenticity:

5.0

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

5.0

Address: 789 Helen St, San Jose, CA 95125, USA

Suggi Oota Take-Out
Indian Restaurant $

Overall:

4.8

(492 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.8

Atmosphere:

4.7

Service:

4.9

Address: 949 Ruff Dr, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

LUNA Mexican Kitchen - The Alameda
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.6

(2600 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.4

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.4

Address: 1495 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126, USA

Trine's Cafe 6
Mexican Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.9

(286 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.8

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.8

Address: 5304 Monterey Rd, San Jose, CA 95111, USA

Din Tai Fung
Restaurant $$

Overall:

4.5

(3148 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.7

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.2

Address: 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd #1259, Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA

Nuevas Generaciones Taqueria
Mexican Restaurant

Overall:

4.8

(99 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.9

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.8

Address: 3677 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95051, USA