8 Indian Restaurants In California Worth Visiting
California’s diverse food scene has embraced the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with open arms.
From the spicy curries of the north to the coconut-infused dishes of the south, the Golden State offers an incredible range of authentic Indian dining experiences.
I’ve spent years exploring these culinary gems, and today I’m sharing my absolute favorites that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Mumbai or the royal kitchens of Rajasthan.
1. Amber India (San Jose)
Royalty has a flavor, and I found it at Amber India. Last summer, I brought my spice-averse parents here, trembling with fear they’d hate it—instead, they’ve called weekly asking when we’re going back! The restaurant’s butter chicken has ruined me for all others; its velvety tomato gravy balances tang and richness in a way that seems physically impossible.
Chef Vivek Desiraju doesn’t just cook—he performs culinary magic, transforming humble ingredients into dishes worthy of Mughal emperors. Their tandoori lamb chops arrive sizzling dramatically, perfuming the entire restaurant with garam masala.
The sophisticated space, with its amber lighting (clever!), makes this perfect for milestone celebrations. My wallet winces at the prices, but my taste buds insist it’s completely justified.
2. Badmaash (Los Angeles)
Tradition meets rebellion at this hipster haven in downtown LA. When my ultra-conservative uncle visited from Delhi, I nervously brought him here—by meal’s end, he was high-fiving the chef and ordering another round of their infamous ghost chili lamb vindaloo!
Badmaash (meaning “mischief-maker” in Hindi) perfectly captures the irreverent spirit of modern Indian cuisine. Brothers Nakul and Arjun Mahendro blend their father’s classic techniques with California flair, creating mind-bending dishes like chicken tikka poutine and spiced lamb burger.
The space pops with Bollywood posters and neon signs, while hip-hop beats pulse through the dining room. Don’t miss their mango lassi spiked with cardamom—it’s like drinking a liquid sunset over Mumbai harbor, only with better parking options.
3. Curry Up Now (Multiple Locations)
Street food magic happens when Indian flavors meet Mexican delivery systems! My first Curry Up Now experience left me giggling with delight—who knew tikka masala burritos could change your life? Founder Akash Kapoor started with a food truck and now boasts multiple brick-and-mortar spots across California.
Their Sexy Fries (sweet potato fries smothered in cheese, onions, and chutney) should be illegal they’re so addictive. The Naughty Naan—flatbread topped with mozzarella, caramelized onions and your choice of protein—redefines comfort food in the best possible way.
The casual, colorful atmosphere makes this perfect for quick lunches or late-night cravings. Fair warning though: explaining to Indian grandmothers why you’re eating curry wrapped in tortillas requires diplomatic skills I clearly lack.
4. Vik’s Chaat Corner (Berkeley)
Chaos, flavor, and authenticity collide at this Berkeley institution! My first visit to Vik’s felt like teleporting straight to Delhi’s bustling markets—complete with the no-frills seating and the delightful confusion of ordering. The bhel puri here changed my understanding of texture; crispy sev, soft potatoes, tangy tamarind, and fresh cilantro creating a perfect storm in my mouth.
Housed in a former warehouse, this family-owned spot has zero pretension but maximum flavor. Their dahi batata puri—crisp shells filled with yogurt, tamarind, and mint chutneys—must be eaten immediately for that perfect crunch-then-explosion experience.
Weekend afternoons bring lines that snake through the attached market, filled with families debating the merits of pani puri versus dahi vada. Bonus: their grocery section lets you attempt (and fail at) recreating their magic at home.
5. Addi’s Tandoor (Redondo Beach)
Tucked away in a suburban strip mall, Addi’s Tandoor delivers coastal Indian cuisine that made me weep with joy. On a rainy Tuesday evening, I stumbled in soaking wet and left feeling like I’d been warmed from the inside out by their Goan fish curry—tender sea bass swimming in coconut milk infused with mustard seeds and curry leaves.
Chef-owner Addi Decosta draws inspiration from his Goan heritage, focusing on seafood preparations rarely found in typical Indian restaurants. The garlic naan emerges pillowy and blistered from their clay oven, perfect for sopping up every last drop of their complex sauces.
The intimate dining room feels like being welcomed into someone’s home, with family photos adorning walls and servers who remember your preferences. Skip the chicken tikka masala (though it’s excellent) and explore their regional specialties instead.
6. Everest Cuisine (Ventura)
Nepalese momos stole my heart the moment I popped one of these plump dumplings into my mouth! Everest Cuisine brilliantly bridges the gap between Himalayan and North Indian flavors, creating a unique dining experience that’s worth the drive to Ventura. Owner Raj Kunwar greets regulars by name while sharing stories of his mountainous homeland.
Their goat curry, slow-cooked until fork-tender, showcases the warming spices that define high-altitude cooking. The restaurant’s specialty bread—tingmo—arrives in spiral-shaped glory, perfect for soaking up their complex gravies and chutneys.
The modest dining room features stunning mountain photography and prayer flags, transporting diners to Kathmandu without the jet lag. Vegetarians rejoice: their jackfruit masala could convert even the most dedicated carnivore with its meaty texture and aromatic gravy.
7. Annapoorna (San Diego)
South Indian breakfast changed my life at Annapoorna! One bite of their idli sambar—steamed rice cakes dunked in lentil stew—and I finally understood why my Indian colleague refuses to eat breakfast anywhere else when visiting San Diego. This family-run spot specializes in vegetarian cuisine from Tamil Nadu, where rice and lentils transform into culinary poetry.
Their masala dosa stretches beyond the plate’s edges, filled with turmeric-stained potatoes that balance mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. The real showstopper, though, is their filter coffee, served dramatically by pouring between metal cups to create the perfect froth.
Weekend mornings bring multi-generational Indian families chatting over crispy vadas and endless coffee refills. The no-frills decor keeps prices reasonable, while the constantly playing Tamil music videos provide delightful entertainment between courses.
8. Mantra India (Mountain View)
Tech workers flock to Mantra India for lunch buffets that could power coding marathons for days! My first visit coincided with a major software release deadline, and I watched in amusement as engineers strategized their buffet approach with flowchart precision. This Silicon Valley staple balances authentic flavors with efficient service, making it perfect for time-crunched innovation warriors.
Their butter chicken achieves the perfect balance of tomato tang and creamy richness, while their biryani releases fragrant steam when you break through its pastry seal. Vegetarians are exceptionally well-served here—the malai kofta (cheese dumplings in creamy sauce) converts carnivores regularly.
The sleek, modern space features subtle touches of Indian decor without veering into cliché territory. Weekend dinner service transforms the atmosphere from business casual to date-night worthy, with attentive service and a solid wine list complementing their robust flavors.