New York City teems with a plethora of Indian restaurants, offering a rich tapestry of flavors from biryanis to dosas, making the decision of where to dine a delightful challenge.
New York City boasts a diverse range of Indian restaurants, inviting both locals and tourists to explore its extensive culinary offerings. From fragrant biryanis to savory dosas, NYC’s Indian dining scene has something for everyone. Given the vast number of options, choosing a place to eat can be daunting. Thus, this guide highlights some must-visit Indian restaurants that showcase various regional specialties across the culinary landscape of India.
For a casual meal, diners can explore the bustling cafeteria located in the basement of a Hindu temple in Flushing, Queens, or visit the renowned dosa cart at Washington Square Park, operated by the legendary “dosa man,” Thiru Kumar. Here, traditional South Indian staples are a part of the daily fare, available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., except on Sundays.
If you’re inclined towards a more upscale experience, Adda in Long Island City, East Village, managed by the accomplished team behind Semma, Dhamaka, and Masalawala & Sons, offers an indulgent menu. Diners can relish dishes such as lamb parcha and baby goat biryani, with unique experiences like a tableside “Butter Chicken Experience” tailor-made to suit individual preferences.
For those in the mood for a stop inspired by Kerala’s toddy shops, Chatti in Midtown presents a “touchings” menu reminiscent of snacky dishes often paired with toddy. This includes delights such as Malabar mutton and toddy shop beef fry, which accompany drinks like cold beer.
Lungi, on the Upper East Side, stands out as a fusion restaurant, offering dishes like masala dosas next to Sri Lankan favorites, including lamprais and string hoppers. The venue’s cozy back patio makes for an ideal setting to enjoy a dosa brunch.
Bungalow, inspired by India’s private member clubs from the turn of the 20th century, is a visually charming spot strewn with rugs and chandeliers. The restaurant’s fare—from creamy daal to roasted pineapple curry—provides a comforting yet upscale dining experience.
Over at Passerine in Flatiron, the atmosphere is akin to dining in a meadow, with lush decorations complementing a menu of beautifully plated dishes. Try starters like shrimp Koliwada or beet poriyal tart, or finish your meal with an inventive ice cream sandwich.
The Union Square restaurant from the team of Laut is known for its vibrant flavors, with a menu focused on coastal South Indian cuisine prepared by a chef from Mumbai. Dishes such as slow-cooked beef rugged with spices highlight the restaurant’s commitment to full-bodied flavors.
Hyderabadi Zaiqa in Hell’s Kitchen specializes in biryanis, offering more than a dozen varieties, including a standout goat dum biryani. Its extensive menu includes delicacies from Punjabi, Indo-Chinese, and South Indian coastal cuisines—all at wallet-friendly prices below $20.
Semma, nestled in the West Village, offers specialties rare in NYC, most notably their delectable Goanese oxtail. The ambient setting and exceptional menu cement Semma as a top dining choice.
Jackson Heights’ favorite for authentic Indian cuisine offers tantalizing housemade paneer and biryanis. However, the goat dum biryani—a standout dish hidden beneath a layer of puffed bread—is a must-try during any visit.
Masalawala & Sons in Park Slope presents a Bengali-inspired menu with seafood as the star. The festive atmosphere enhances the exceptional experience where dishes such as tiger prawns served in a young coconut take center stage.
Dhamaka, located within a lively food hall, is noted for its unmatched regional offerings. Despite premium pricing, the unique dishes, like gurda kapoora—a dish of goat kidney and testicles—justify a visit.
Since the early ’90s, a cab stand in the East Village has served hearty vegetarian Indian chaat and curries. This cherished fixture beckons both temple-goers and tourists alike for dishes like samosa chaat and pakora.
Seva in Astoria remains a favorite for its flavorful prix-fixe sampler alongside popular items such as chicken tikka and lamb vindaloo. It is a popular spot for group dining, offering a menu to accommodate all taste preferences.
At Vatan in Kips Bay, diners can enjoy an endless buffet of Gujarati vegetarian delights. The prix-fixe setup presents a variety of dishes in a unique setting adorned with traditional decor, enhancing the dining experience.
Prospect Heights’ Omar’s Fine Cuisine creatively combines Indian food, pizza, and freshly made bagels all under one roof. The unusual fusion dishes offer an intriguing culinary venture for adventurous diners.
Pongal offers a vegetarian paradise along Lexington Avenue. Accommodating vegan and Jain diets, it features a lunch special with extensive options under $15 for value seekers.
Another gem in Park Slope, this restaurant is helmed by a chef from Mangalore. With dishes ranging from dosas to ribeye steak au poivre, the beautifully executed menu offers something for everyone in a sophisticated but relaxed setting.
Raja Sweets & Fast Food in Jackson Heights, operating without a formal menu, allows diners to select delectable samosas and pakoras by sight. This bustling spot is ideal for a quick bite of authentic Indian snacks.
According to The Infatuation, these curated restaurants embody the diversity and depth of Indian cuisine in New York City, ensuring that every dining experience is memorable.