New Livermore restaurant embodies the essence of India

Livermore residents now won’t have to go far to experience authentic and immersive Desi culture, traditions and dining. A new restaurant in Republic Square offers visitors an intimate environment with many classic dishes that draw inspiration from all regions of India.

Owners Vikas and Priya Bajaj officially opened the doors of the Taj Mahal in October. The couple said they have seen great success at the restaurant in the months since and continue to pursue their longtime goal.

“We wanted to bring the experience of real authentic fine dining Indian Cuisine to the area. This is a place where our patrons can experience traditional Indian culture through food but also through the entire atmosphere of the restaurant,” Vikas Bajaj said about the restaurant he and his wife now run at 4705 Livermore Outlets Drive.

“It was always our dream to open something like this, and now it’s been a dream to operate it,” Bajaj added.

Owners first shared rendered plans of the space online in April 2023 and frequently gave construction updates.

The establishment’s brand comes from the famous Indian monument of the same name, the Taj Mahal, which opened in Uttar Pradesh in 1648.

Bajaj explained they chose the name to represent the authentic culture they hope guests will feel while at the Taj Mahal in Livermore.

“Our namesake — the Taj Mahal — was meant to draw attention to the original well-known monument. We want to transport our visitors to India and offer them a dining experience unlike any other,” said Bajaj. “Here we give them a piece of India through our food and culture.”

Periodically, guests can enjoy live entertainment shows that owners call “Taj musical night”. Artists such as Sid Philar perform during dinnertime.

Notable menu items include tomato dhaniya soup, taj butter chicken and mango lassi. An assortment of cocktails, desserts and starters is also available. The restaurant offers inclusive vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

In addition to the regular dining options, the Taj Mahal offers large group and event reservations.

Bajaj described their dishes as “vibrant, delectable and rich”.

“We mix traditional and modern renditions of familiar dishes,” he said. “We want our visitors to feel at home and comfortable in the environment, but also like they’ve experienced the rich culture of India while dining here. Every entree is made with a careful selection of spices and ingredients that engage the patrons senses and take them on a journey of delightful Indian flavors.”

At the grand-opening event held in October, partners, supporters and family gathered to support the Bajajs.

Michael Van Every, president of Republic Urban Properties, developer of Republic Square at Livermore of which Taj Mahal is a tenant, shared remarks on the new restaurant.

“We are thrilled to welcome Taj Mahal to Republic Square at Livermore,” Van Every said. “Taj Mahal is not just a restaurant, it’s a testament to the rich culinary artistry of Indian cuisine taken to the next level through a fine dining experience and a testament to our dedication of creating a diverse tenant mix that will ultimately create an impact in community development in Livermore.”

“We believe they’ll become a beloved spot and we’re excited to show our support,” added Van Every.

Bajaj said he hopes the Taj Mahal can continue offering guests a fine-dining experience with authentic Indian cuisine.

“We hope this is a space where patrons can truly experience India and true fine-dining, not just through the food but through every element of the restaurant. From the decor inspired by Indian palaces to the traditional melodies playing in the background, we want our guests to feel the essence of India,” Bajaj said.

“We are filled with gratitude to be able to see our dream through,” he added.