13 Ohio Indian Restaurants That Win On Spice And Comfort In 2026
Finding a restaurant that balances bold spices with cozy comfort can feel like searching for treasure. Ohio has become home to some of the most authentic and welcoming Indian restaurants in the Midwest.
These spots serve everything from creamy butter chicken to fiery vindaloo, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
Whether you’re craving tandoori specialties or want to explore regional dishes you’ve never tried before, these restaurants deliver flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Mumbai, Delhi, and beyond.
I’ve spent months visiting Indian restaurants across Ohio, and I’m excited to share the ones that truly stand out for their incredible spice levels and heartwarming dishes that make you feel right at home.
1. Aab India Restaurant, Columbus
Walking into this Grandview Avenue spot feels like stepping into a friend’s home where the spices are always perfect and the welcome is genuine. The kitchen here doesn’t hold back on flavor, creating dishes that showcase the full spectrum of Indian cooking from mild to mouth-tingling.
Their butter chicken strikes that perfect balance between rich tomato cream and aromatic spices. The naan comes out of the tandoor with those characteristic charred bubbles that make it impossible to stop eating.
What really sets this place apart is how they handle heat levels. Ask for extra spice and they actually deliver, unlike places that play it safe.
The lamb vindaloo here has made me reach for my water glass more than once, but in the best possible way.
The staff takes time to explain dishes and offer recommendations based on what you’re craving. They’ve created a menu that respects tradition while making sure everything tastes fresh and vibrant.
Address: 1470 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
2. Amul India Restaurant, Dublin
Located on Sawmill Road, this restaurant has built a reputation for serving some of the most authentic North Indian fare you’ll find in Ohio. The dining room stays busy with families and friends gathering over shared plates of fragrant curries and crispy appetizers.
Their samosas arrive at your table piping hot with a golden, flaky crust that shatters when you bite into it. Inside, the spiced potato filling hits all the right notes without being greasy or heavy.
The chicken tikka masala here leans toward the traditional side, with visible grill marks on the tender chicken pieces and a sauce that’s tomato-forward rather than overly sweet. If you’re feeling adventurous, the goat curry showcases how well they handle bolder proteins with complex spice blends.
They offer lunch buffets that let you sample multiple dishes without committing to full entrees. The variety changes regularly, so there’s always something new to discover on your next visit.
Address: 5871 Sawmill Rd, Dublin, OH 43017
3. Awadh India Restaurant, Columbus
Specializing in Awadhi cuisine from Northern India, this Bethel Road restaurant brings regional flavors that many Ohio diners haven’t experienced before. The cooking style emphasizes slow-cooked meats and aromatic rice dishes that fill the dining room with incredible smells.
Their biryani is the star of the menu, layered with fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, and whole spices that you discover with each forkful. The rice grains stay separate and fluffy, never clumping together like lesser versions.
What makes this place special is their focus on kebabs and tandoor preparations. The seekh kebabs come off the grill with a slight char and a texture that’s both tender and satisfying.
They serve them with mint chutney that’s bright, fresh, and cooling.
The korma here takes a different approach than most places, using a technique that involves braising rather than heavy cream. The result is lighter but still deeply flavorful, with nuts and aromatics creating layers of taste.
Address: 2584 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220
4. Indian Oven, Columbus
Right in downtown Columbus on East Main Street, this restaurant has become a lunch favorite for office workers and a dinner destination for anyone craving seriously good Indian food. The name says it all, as their tandoor oven works overtime producing breads and grilled dishes that keep people coming back.
Their garlic naan deserves its own fan club. It arrives at your table still bubbling from the oven heat, brushed with butter and loaded with fresh garlic that makes the whole experience aromatic and addictive.
The tandoori chicken here shows off what happens when you marinate meat properly and cook it at the right temperature. The exterior gets that signature red color and slight char while the inside stays juicy.
No dry, overcooked chicken here.
They’ve also mastered the art of the curry, whether you’re ordering something creamy like chicken korma or something with more kick like chicken chettinad. The spice levels are clearly marked on the menu, so you know what you’re getting into before you order.
Address: 427 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
5. Adeep India Restaurant, Cincinnati
Near the University of Cincinnati on West McMillan Street, this restaurant serves students, faculty, and neighborhood residents who appreciate authentic flavors at reasonable prices. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to stop by for a quick lunch or settle in for a longer dinner.
Their dosa selection is impressive, with the crispy crepes arriving at your table folded and filled with spiced potatoes. The accompanying sambar and coconut chutney provide the perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
It’s South Indian cooking done right.
The paneer dishes here appeal to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The paneer tikka features cubes of cottage cheese that are grilled until slightly crispy on the outside while staying soft inside.
The spice rub they use brings heat without overwhelming the mild cheese.
What stands out is their willingness to adjust dishes to your preferences. Want extra heat?
They’ll make it happen. Prefer something milder?
No problem. The kitchen seems genuinely interested in making sure you enjoy your meal exactly how you want it.
Address: 211 W McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45219
6. Ambar India Restaurant, Cincinnati
This Ludlow Avenue restaurant in Cincinnati has created a dining experience that feels both upscale and welcoming. The menu explores different regions of India, giving you options beyond the usual suspects found at most Indian restaurants.
Their fish curry showcases how well Indian spices complement seafood. The fish stays tender and flaky while absorbing the complex flavors of the coconut-based sauce.
It’s a dish that surprises people who think Indian food is all about chicken and lamb.
The vegetable korma here proves that vegetarian dishes can be just as satisfying as meat options. The mix of vegetables stays crisp-tender rather than mushy, and the cashew-cream sauce adds richness without feeling heavy.
Fresh cilantro on top adds a bright finish.
They’ve also got a solid selection of appetizers that make great sharing plates. The pakoras come out hot and crispy, perfect for dipping in their house-made chutneys.
The onion bhaji is particularly good, with thin strips of onion bound in chickpea batter and fried until golden.
Address: 350 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
7. Baba India Restaurant, Cincinnati
On Madison Road, this Cincinnati spot has built a following among locals who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions. The dining room has a relaxed vibe that makes it suitable for everything from date nights to family dinners.
Their chicken tikka stands out as one of the best versions in Ohio. The marinade penetrates deep into the meat, and the grilling process creates those delicious charred edges that add so much flavor.
Served on a sizzling platter with onions and peppers, it’s a showstopper.
The dal here deserves special mention. Many restaurants treat lentil dishes as an afterthought, but this kitchen gives them the attention they deserve.
The dal makhani is creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying, with the slow-cooked lentils melting into a velvety texture.
They also excel at bread service. Beyond the standard naan, try their paratha, which is flakier and more substantial.
The aloo paratha comes stuffed with spiced potatoes and makes a meal on its own when paired with yogurt and pickles.
Address: 3120 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45209
8. Dusmesh Indian & Nepali Restaurant, Cincinnati
This Ludlow Avenue restaurant brings something different to Cincinnati’s Indian food scene by incorporating Nepali specialties alongside traditional Indian dishes. The combination gives you more options and introduces flavors that many diners haven’t tried before.
Their momos are a must-try. These Nepali dumplings come steamed or fried, filled with spiced meat or vegetables.
The accompanying chutney has a tomato base with enough heat to make things interesting. It’s comfort food with a kick.
The Indian side of the menu doesn’t disappoint either. Their chicken curry follows a home-style recipe that feels authentic and comforting.
The sauce clings to the chicken without being too thick, and the spice level builds gradually rather than hitting you all at once.
The tandoori mixed grill lets you sample several different preparations at once. You get chicken, lamb, and seafood all cooked in the tandoor, each with its own marinade and flavor profile.
It’s perfect for groups who want variety.
Address: 944 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
9. Café Tandoor, Cleveland Heights
Located on South Taylor Road in Cleveland Heights, this restaurant has become a neighborhood favorite for its consistent cooking and friendly service. The café-style setup makes it feel approachable while the food shows serious skill in the kitchen.
Their lamb rogan josh is a standout dish. The lamb pieces are tender without falling apart, cooked in a sauce that’s rich with tomatoes, yogurt, and aromatic spices.
The heat level is moderate but the flavor complexity is anything but simple.
The vegetarian options here go beyond the basics. The baingan bharta, made with roasted eggplant, has a smoky depth that makes it surprisingly addictive.
Mixed with tomatoes, onions, and spices, it’s a dish that converts people who claim they don’t like eggplant.
Their lunch specials offer excellent value without sacrificing quality. You get generous portions of curry, rice, naan, and sides for a price that makes it easy to become a regular.
The kitchen maintains the same standards whether you’re ordering from the lunch menu or the full dinner selection.
Address: 2096 S Taylor Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
10. India Garden, Lakewood
This Detroit Avenue restaurant in Lakewood has been serving the Cleveland area for years, building a reputation for reliable Indian cooking that satisfies both newcomers and experienced curry enthusiasts. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a comfortable spot for any occasion.
Their chicken saag combines tender chicken with creamy spinach in a way that makes leafy greens irresistible. The spinach is pureed smooth rather than chunky, creating a sauce that coats everything evenly.
Garlic and ginger add aromatic notes that make each bite interesting.
The appetizer selection here is strong across the board. The chicken pakoras are particularly good, with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t get soggy.
They arrive hot enough that you have to wait a minute before diving in, which is always a good sign.
They also handle rice dishes well. The vegetable biryani comes packed with colorful vegetables and fragrant rice that’s been cooked with whole spices.
Each grain picks up flavor from the cooking process, making it much more than just a side dish.
Address: 18405 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107
11. Star of India Restaurant, Toledo
On South Reynolds Road in Toledo, this restaurant brings quality Indian cuisine to a part of Ohio that doesn’t have as many options. The kitchen takes pride in preparing dishes from scratch and using fresh ingredients rather than shortcuts.
Their shrimp curry is a highlight, featuring large shrimp cooked just right so they stay tender. The sauce balances coconut milk with spices, creating something that’s creamy but not heavy.
It pairs perfectly with their basmati rice or naan for soaking up every drop.
The chicken biryani here follows traditional preparation methods, with the rice and meat cooked together so the flavors marry completely. Whole spices like cardamom and cinnamon add complexity, and the raita served alongside provides cooling contrast.
They’ve also developed a following for their weekend buffet, which lets you try multiple dishes without committing to full orders. The selection rotates but always includes popular favorites along with a few surprises.
It’s a great way to explore dishes you might not order otherwise.
Address: 415 S Reynolds Rd, Toledo, OH 43615
12. Amar India Restaurant, Centerville
This Centerville restaurant on Miamisburg-Centerville Road serves the Dayton area with authentic Indian flavors and attentive service. The dining room strikes a nice balance between casual and refined, making it work for both quick dinners and special occasions.
Their goat curry shows off how well they handle tougher cuts of meat. The goat is cooked until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, and the bone-in pieces add extra flavor to the sauce.
The spice blend includes warming notes of cinnamon and clove alongside the heat.
The palak paneer here is another winner. The spinach sauce has body without being too thick, and the paneer cubes are fresh and soft.
They don’t skimp on the cheese, giving you plenty in every serving.
Their tandoori bread selection extends beyond basic naan. The keema naan, stuffed with spiced ground meat, makes a satisfying meal on its own.
The onion kulcha is another standout, with caramelized onions adding sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Address: 2751 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd, Centerville, OH 45459
13. Bombay Sitar, Canton
Bringing authentic Indian cuisine to Canton on Fulton Drive, this restaurant fills a need in an area where Indian food options are limited. The kitchen focuses on classic preparations done well rather than trying to reinvent traditional dishes.
Their chicken vindaloo delivers the heat that vindaloo lovers expect. The sauce has that characteristic tang from vinegar along with layers of spices that build intensity.
It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you enjoy serious spice, this version won’t disappoint.
The vegetable samosas here have a perfectly crispy exterior that holds up even after sitting for a few minutes. The potato filling is seasoned just right, with peas adding pops of sweetness.
Dipped in their tamarind chutney, they’re addictive.
They also make a solid chicken korma that showcases the milder side of Indian cooking. The creamy sauce gets its richness from cashews and cream, with cardamom and other aromatics adding subtle complexity.
It’s proof that not every Indian dish needs to bring the heat to be delicious and satisfying.
Address: 5111 Fulton Dr NW, Canton, OH 44718