Punjab Sweets has secretly been hiding on Kent’s East Hill for nine years.  This hidden treasure is an experience the second you walk in the door.

I was invited by a friend, who informed me that this was a vegetarian restaurant; this caused a little hesitation at first because I love meat.  However, as soon as you walk in the door the sweet aroma fills the air as I was greeted by soothing Indian music.  Then as you approach the counter you are cheerfully greeted by the staff who in my case was also an owner, Harpreet Gill.  The menu has so many fabulous selections which, may I add, came with extremely reasonable prices.

Harpreet offered assistance in ordering which was extremely helpful since I am, by no means, an Indian cuisine expert.  She made many recommendations but I decided to go with the sampler so I could try a little of everything.  The wonderful smell was still lingering in the air; I could not wait to eat.  After a short wait the food came and it was just as I expected, fantastic!  Wow!  I never thought I could become a vegetarian so easily, but with food like that maybe I’ve been wrong about meat.  No matter what, if I choose to go back to beef,  I know that Punjab Sweets has a fan for life.

Contributed by Larissa Long

Downtown Kent has a handful of locally-owned restaurants. Here are a few of my favorites:

Spiro’s Greek Isle – Open for lunch and dinner, this restaurant on First Avenue South has delicious, affordable Greek food. I recommend the gyros, Greek salad, baklava and the interesting selection of cocktails.

Archa Thai Bistro – Located on East Meeker across the street from Renaissance Yarns, this Thai restaurant has an elegant decor and the tastiest lunch specials. My favorite – Garlic Chicken. You can enjoy a nice lunch for less than $8.

Maggie’s on Meeker – On West Meeker, this diner has the best breakfast sandwich in town and the entire staff is friendly, cheerful and remembers each and every customer. For an affordable breakfast you can’t find anywhere else, check out Maggie’s for breakfast or lunch.

Do you have a favorite spot in Kent? If so, post a comment and share your favorites!