CURRENTLY SERVING:

You know an Indian restaurant is some kinda contender when it’s able to take over the scent of nearly a whole city block in the most godly fashion possible. Sadly, this has been our sole experience of Palace At The Ben thus far, but not for long: Perusing the website alone reveals that this is not your run-of-the-mill corner samosa joint. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that, Minar Palace, et al. We’re no snobs when it comes to the spicy-spicy.) In June, however, fans of both the Ben and Indian cuisine in general will be able to get a look under the hood as the restaurant offers its first-ever Indian cooking course. You’ll learn flavors, prep, samosas, panirs and of course, curries — for an Anglo, I can tell you, this a big deal. I currently wouldn’t be able to whip up a chicken tikka if my life depended on it. Hell, I don’t even know if I’m spelling it right. The four-week course starts in late June and costs only $150, all-in. Full details after the jump.

LEARN TO MAKE AUTHENTIC CURRYS, SAMOSAS, PANIRS AND MORE:

PALACE AT THE BEN OFFERS INDIAN COOKING CLASSES

(Philadelphia) — Impress your friends and family or just spice up your own kitchen with Indian cooking classes at Palace at the Ben. This four week course will teach the basic elements of Indian food preparation, how flavors blend together, and how to create a variety of dishes at a work station. Each class will include plenty of tasting and dining on your own culinary masterpieces.

Classes will be held Monday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. beginning June 23 and will be taught by Executive Chef Subhash Sarpal and General Manager Ryan Hendry. $150 includes four sessions and all ingredients and equipment needed for the class. Space is limited and can be reserved by calling the restaurant directly.

The Palace at the Ben blends authentic Indian cuisine, phenomenal service, and an opulent atmosphere to create an unparalleled Far East dining experience. Celebrating its first year, the restaurant offers sumptuous yet affordable lunch and dinner menus of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine. The luxurious 6,200-square-foot space includes two decadent cocktail lounges, featuring specialty cocktails, fine wines, and Indian beer. With 170 seats and large private booths behind velvet curtains, Palace at the Ben is ideal for a romantic first date, family get together, corporate events, and private parties.

Executive Chef Sarpal has worked to bring delicious Indian cuisine to the region for more than a dozen years at the Palace of Asia restaurants, the parent company of Palace at the Ben, which boast locations throughout the tri state area. As the crown jewel of the family of restaurants, Palace at the Ben is designed by renowned hospitality interior firm Koeser Designs Inc. and reflects Indian culture with bold colors comfortable seating, rich fabrics, and authentic Indian statues.

Located on the ground floor of the historic Ben Franklin House at 834 Chestnut Street, Palace at the Ben serves lunch and dinner seven days a week. Hours are 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight on Friday and Saturday. Reservations are recommended. Contact Palace at the Ben at (267) 232-5600 or visit www.thepalaceattheben.com.