8 Of The Best Indian Restaurants In New York City
New York City’s food scene has something for everyone, but the Indian cuisine here is truly spectacular.
From cozy spots serving comfort food to upscale restaurants offering innovative takes on traditional dishes, the Big Apple has it all.
I’ve spent years exploring these flavors across the city, and these eight Indian restaurants stand out for their exceptional food, atmosphere, and cultural authenticity.
1. Semma: Southern Indian Treasures In Greenwich Village
The first time I walked into Semma, I was hit with aromas that transported me straight to Kerala. Chef Vijay Kumar has created something magical here, showcasing the rarely-seen rural cuisine of South India with dishes that tell stories of his childhood.
What makes Semma special isn’t just the food—it’s the experience. The Nathai Pirattal (snails simmered with tamarind and ginger) might sound adventurous, but trust me, it’s worth stepping outside your comfort zone. The Kudal Varuval (goat intestines) has converted even my most squeamish friends.
The restaurant’s warm brick walls and lush greenery create the perfect backdrop for these bold flavors. Unlike many Indian spots in NYC, Semma doesn’t dim down spices—they celebrate heat in all its glory!
2. Adda: Queens’ Casual Culinary Gem
“Holy cow!” Those were literally my first words after tasting Adda’s Tandoori Poussin. Hidden in Long Island City, this unassuming spot serves some of the most honest Indian food I’ve ever had outside of Delhi.
Chef Chintan Pandya believes in ‘unapologetic Indian’ cooking, and boy does it show! The Lucknow Dum Biryani comes sealed with dough that, when cracked open, releases a cloud of aromatic steam that’ll make you weak at the knees. My personal obsession is their Bhatti Da Murgh—smoky, charred perfection.
Walls covered with Indian newspaper clippings and Bollywood posters give Adda a casual, homey vibe. Don’t expect white tablecloths here; instead, prepare for flavor bombs that’ll haunt your dreams for weeks afterward.
3. Bungalow: Modern Elegance Meets Traditional Flavors
Stepping into Bungalow feels like entering the sophisticated home of a well-traveled friend. This newcomer to the NYC scene blends colonial-era charm with contemporary flair, creating a space that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
My jaw dropped when I tried their Kashmiri Lamb Ribs—fall-off-the-bone tender with a spice blend that dances between sweet and savory. The cocktail program deserves special mention too; their Himalayan Highball with cardamom-infused whiskey pairs beautifully with the rich food.
What I appreciate most about Bungalow is their attention to regional diversity. From coastal prawn curries to hearty North Indian kebabs, they traverse the subcontinent with respect and creativity. The gorgeous brass accents and plush seating make this place perfect for date night or celebrating special occasions.
4. Dhamaka: Explosive ‘Unapologetic Indian’ On The Lower East Side
“This isn’t your typical chicken tikka masala joint!” I warned my friends before our reservation at Dhamaka. Located in Essex Market, this fiery hotspot focuses on provincial dishes rarely found on American menus—and my taste buds couldn’t be happier about it.
The Gurda Kapoora (goat kidney and testicles) might raise eyebrows, but Chef Pandya’s magic turns these forgotten cuts into craveable delicacies. Their Champaran Meat, a Bihar-style lamb dish slow-cooked in a clay pot, haunts my food dreams regularly. Pro tip: order the Doh Khleh (pork with lime and cilantro) for a taste of India’s northeastern frontier.
The vibrant dining room, with its colorful tiles and open kitchen, buzzes with energy. Reservations are notoriously tough to snag, so plan weeks ahead—or prepare to wait at the bar with one of their stellar masala-infused cocktails.
5. Junoon: Michelin-Starred Magic In Flatiron
My anniversary dinner at Junoon last year still ranks among my top five dining experiences ever. This Michelin-starred establishment elevates Indian cuisine to fine art, with a spice room where they grind and blend their own masalas daily.
Ghost Chili Murgh Tikka left me simultaneously sweating and begging for more. Their Tellicherry Duck—crispy-skinned and served with coconut-ginger sauce—showcases the kitchen’s masterful technique. Vegetarians aren’t afterthoughts here either; the Nadru Kofte (lotus root dumplings) could convert even dedicated carnivores.
Junoon’s soaring ceilings, intricate wooden carvings, and impeccable service create an atmosphere of refined luxury. While definitely a splurge, their lunch prix fixe offers a more accessible entry point to experience this temple of Indian gastronomy. Just don’t skip the cocktail program—their spice-infused creations complement the food perfectly.
6. Tamarind Tribeca: Sophisticated Dining In A Stunning Space
Tamarind Tribeca knocked my socks off the moment I walked through its massive doors. The soaring ceilings and dramatic lighting create a theatrical backdrop for some seriously impressive Indian cuisine.
Unlike many spots that focus on a single region, Tamarind takes you on a pan-Indian journey. The Konju Pappas (shrimp in coconut sauce) transports you straight to Kerala’s backwaters, while their Dhaba Murgh rivals anything you’d find in Punjab. My personal addiction is their bread basket—the truffle naan should be illegal, it’s that good!
What makes dining here special is the balance they strike between accessibility and authenticity. The dishes might sound familiar, but each comes with a sophisticated twist that elevates it beyond the expected. The well-heeled crowd includes everyone from Wall Street types to celebrities trying to keep a low profile behind oversized glasses.
7. Kanyakumari: Queens’ Hidden South Indian Paradise
Sometimes the best food comes from the most unassuming places. Tucked away in a nondescript strip mall in Queens, Kanyakumari became my Sunday ritual after I accidentally stumbled in while sheltering from rain last year.
The dosas here are life-changing—paper-thin, crispy-edged, and stretching beyond the plate. Their Uttapam (savory rice pancakes) topped with onions and chilies pair perfectly with the coconut chutney that I’ve seriously considered drinking straight. Family-run with recipes passed down through generations, this place specializes in vegetarian South Indian cuisine that will make you forget meat exists.
Don’t expect fancy decor—the fluorescent lighting and Formica tables won’t win design awards. But the families that pack this place every weekend don’t care, and neither will you once that first bite of Mysore Masala Dosa hits your tongue. Cash only, so come prepared!
8. Angel Indian Restaurant: East Village’s Beloved Neighborhood Staple
Angel Indian holds a special place in my heart as the first place I tried Indian food after moving to NYC. This East Village institution lacks pretension but overdelivers on flavor and value.
Their Lamb Vindaloo brings tears to my eyes—partly from the heat, partly from joy. The Chicken 65 appetizer disappears from the table in seconds whenever I bring friends here. Family-owned for decades, Angel maintains consistency that’s rare in the ever-changing NYC restaurant landscape.
The space is cozy (some might say cramped), with Bollywood movies playing silently on the wall-mounted TV. Students from nearby NYU mix with longtime neighborhood residents, creating a community vibe that feels increasingly rare in Manhattan. Their lunch special might be the best deal in town—$12 for a feast that’ll fuel you through the day and probably provide tomorrow’s lunch too!