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Dum N Grill, a new Indian fusion restaurant beside Chipotle at Tysons Corner Mall, stands out with bold flavors, generous biryani portions and a colorful setting geared largely toward takeout.
Its bright yellow exterior with black accents carries into the dining room, where vivid walls, mismatched chairs and artwork depicting menu items create a lively atmosphere. The staff are friendly and attentive, offering recommendations and helping customers with dietary accommodations. Although the tables could have been cleaner, the restaurant still provided a pleasant experience.
The Vijayawada Special Chicken Biryani was the clear highlight, earning an 8.5 out of 10. Garnished with sliced onion, cilantro and lemon, it paired tender, flavorful chicken with aromatic spices and considerable heat. Accompanying sauces contributed tart and earthy notes. The large serving is well suited to sharing or saving for leftovers.
The garlic naan scored 6.5 out of 10. Fire-singed edges, a buttery glaze and a satisfying texture made a strong first impression, but the topping held it back. The garlic tasted overly sharp and undercooked, overpowering what was otherwise a well-made bread.
Butter chicken received a 7 out of 10. Seasonal vegetables and a broad mix of spices made it enjoyable, though it lacked the biryani’s heat and complexity. Its relatively small portion also offered less value than the similarly priced biryani.
With welcoming service and spice-forward cooking, Dum N Grill is a worthwhile lunch or dinner option at Tysons Corner Mall. The dining room has room for improvement, but customers seeking a flavorful meal to take away may find plenty to enjoy.