The sizzling twang of sitar makes for an atmospheric backdrop at this neighborhood Indian restaurant, which is just steps away from the chic shops of Georgetown. So after you’ve shopped at Barney’s Coop or a homegrown favorite like Hu’s shoes, step into this casual spot with prices to match. Unlike many places that dumb down spicing for western palates, Taj delivers heat in classic scorchers like vindaloo and lamb curry. Almond-based plates like lamb korma with cream and chicken tikka masala have a velvety lushness. Vegetables are given attention too. North Indian-style baby okra is tossed with dry onion and hand-pulled cauliflower is tossed with mustard seed for a bit of crunch and texture. Condiments like mango chutney, raita, and mixed pickle add sweet and tart notes to this multi-layered cuisine. And dense mango kulfi for dessert is India’s cool, not-too-sweet answer to Ben & Jerry’s.