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The 5 Best Indian Restaurants in NYC

Authentic flavors from across the Indian subcontinent

Restaurants•April 23, 2025

Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse and flavorful culinary traditions in the world, and New York City is fortunate to have exceptional restaurants representing various regional styles from across the subcontinent.

From the rich, creamy curries of North India to the vegetarian specialties of Gujarat to the distinctive dosas of South India, these five restaurants showcase the incredible diversity and depth of Indian cooking at its finest in NYC.

Dhaba

Punjabi Cuisine

This Long Island City gem brings the vibrant flavors of Punjab to New York City. Known for their authentic tandoori dishes and rich, complex curries, Dhaba offers a taste of Northern India that stands out even in NYC's crowded restaurant scene. Their butter chicken and freshly baked naan are consistently praised as some of the best in the city.

Signature dishButter Chicken
Address42-07 Northern Blvd, Long Island City
NeighborhoodLong Island City
Pro tipDon't miss their weekend brunch buffet
Dhaba

Angaar

Modern Indian

This Upper West Side restaurant has quickly become a neighborhood favorite, specializing in charcoal-grilled kebabs and regional Indian specialties. The name 'Angaar' means 'ember' in Hindi, reflecting their focus on tandoor cooking. Their diverse menu showcases dishes from across India, with particularly excellent vegetarian options that even meat lovers rave about.

Signature dishLamb Chops
Address2728 Broadway, Manhattan
NeighborhoodUpper West Side
Opened2022
Image coming soon

Angel Indian Restaurant

Local Favorite

A Jackson Heights institution for over 30 years, Angel offers authentic Indian cuisine in the heart of one of Queens' most diverse neighborhoods. Their vast menu covers everything from fragrant biryanis to fiery vindaloos, but it's their dosa—crispy South Indian crepes filled with spiced potatoes—that keeps locals coming back. The unpretentious setting lets the food take center stage.

Signature dishMasala Dosa
Address7414 37th Rd, Queens
NeighborhoodJackson Heights
Pro tipTheir weekend specials often include hard-to-find regional dishes
Image coming soon

Honest Restaurant

Vegetarian Specialist

This Floral Park standout specializes in vegetarian Gujarati cuisine, particularly street food from the western Indian state. Their chaat (savory snacks) and thalis (complete meals served on a platter) offer an authentic taste of Gujarat rarely found elsewhere in the city. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for groups looking to share multiple dishes.

Signature dishPav Bhaji
Address26104 Hillside Ave, Queens
NeighborhoodFloral Park
StyleGujarati Vegetarian
Image coming soon

India Cafe

Hidden Gem

Nestled in Bellerose, India Cafe is a hidden gem serving home-style Indian cooking that reminds many expats of meals from their childhood. The small, unassuming spot focuses on quality rather than flash, with perfectly spiced curries and some of the most tender tandoori chicken in Queens. Their daily specials often feature seasonal ingredients and regional specialties not found on the regular menu.

Signature dishChicken Tikka Masala
Address25023 Union Turnpike, Queens
NeighborhoodBellerose
Pro tipAsk about their off-menu family recipes
Image coming soon
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All restaurants were visited multiple times, and all visits were paid for by dothings.nyc (we don't accept free food or special treatment).

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