Excellent Indian fusion fare served in casual, friendly environs--suits definitely not required.

The colorful, energetic space--with its wrought-iron and tile bar, mosaic ceiling and Madison Park locale--couldn't be more ideal for enjoying excellent snack-sized plates and a nice array of wines by the glass. Service is swift and knowledgeable. Bhoondi raita (crispy chickpeas in cumin-yogurt sauce) and gobhi masala (cauliflower in ginger-cumin tomato sauce) are perfect for soaking up with rosemary naan, the standout bread among many contenders. Who would've thought that saag paneer (homemade cheese in creamy spinach) would make for such a wonderful pizza topping? Onion rings, however, are disappointing. From the spiced doughnut holes to the dulce de leche ''pop''--like an ice cream bar, but better--desserts are winners.

A stunning setting for suave, professional service and creative cooking enhanced Indian culinary sensibilities.

The Scene
Occupying a cavernous space in the Met Life Tower, the restaurant's soaring staircase, deeply stained woods and lush, curvilinear details make a striking impression. The second-floor dining room, itself gently bi-level, has a serious but relaxed air; smart, impeccably professional and engaging service creates a very comfortable dining experience.

The Food
This isn't Indian cuisine, but seasonings and techniques from the area lavishly spice up what would otherwise be competent and creative American food. Take roast chicken, to which a cumin jus and anise notes lend uncommon panache; or surreally succulent lamb enlivened by acutely tuned fruity curry flavor. A whole apple filled with roasted egetables and scented with Roquefort makes a striking starter, as does a handsomely composed crab and avocado salad with tamarind chutney in a papadum shell. The menu holds no letdowns: Desserts, like a cone of stiff kulfi with licorice, ot cinnamon souffle, extend dinner's spice into the sweet realm.

High Marks
''Tabla is an extraordinary eating experience. Each plate was bursting with flavor - try the tabla crab cake followed by the tapioca crusted shrimp and scallops.'' (evi, Citysearch user)\

''The gleaming wooden staircase is lined with candles that seem to cast a magical glow on the whole place.'' (mariejulienne, Citysearch user)

''I'm no expert on ''Indian fusion'' food, but everything I ate, from the naan to the kulfi, really impressed me.'' (cobraman332, Citysearch user)

Low Marks
''My only beef is the excessive use of salt. It wasn't necessary and only took away from the other spices that were working their magic.'' (mango_mama, Citysearch user)

''One slight criticism would be timing...it seemed to take a little too long to get the entrees.'' (georgiboy, Citysearch user)