Chicago’s diverse culinary scene boasts some of the best indian restaurants in chicago, offering everything from traditional street food to modern fusion dishes. Whether you’re craving rich curries, smoky tandoori specialties, or vegetarian delights, these top spots serve authentic flavors that transport you straight to India.
1. Rooh Chicago (West Loop)
A modern take on Indian cuisine, Rooh blends traditional recipes with contemporary techniques. Their innovative small plates—like duck keema sliders and paneer tikka tacos—are perfect for sharing. Don’t miss their craft cocktails infused with Indian spices.
2. Tandoor Char House (West Rogers Park)
This hidden gem specializes in North Indian tandoori dishes. Their juicy kebabs, buttery naan, and aromatic biryanis are cooked in a traditional clay oven for authentic flavor. The lamb chops and dal makhani are must-tries.
3. Ghareeb Nawaz (Little India, Devon Ave)
A Chicago institution, this no-frills spot serves huge portions of classic Indian-Pakistani fare at unbeatable prices. Their butter chicken, biryani, and crispy samosas are legendary among locals.
4. Cumin (Wicker Park & Near West Side)
Offering a mix of Indian and Nepalese flavors, Cumin’s menu features Himalayan momo dumplings, goat curry, and a killer lunch buffet. Their weekend brunch with masala chai pancakes is a hit.
5. Himalayan Sherpa Kitchen (North Center)
While Nepalese-focused, this cozy spot serves incredible Indian-inspired dishes like chicken tikka masala and vegetable korma. Their momo dumplings and spiced chai are perfect for chilly Chicago days.
6. Rangoli (Lakeview)
A vegetarian paradise, Rangoli offers an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet with rotating regional specialties. Their dosas (crispy lentil crepes) and chaat (savory street snacks) are particularly delicious.
7. Hema’s Kitchen (Loop & Devon Ave)
This family-run spot has been serving homestyle South Indian cuisine for decades. Their thali platters, coconut-rich fish curries, and fluffy idli (steamed rice cakes) are comfort food at its best.
8. The Spice Room (Logan Square)
A newer addition to Chicago’s Indian scene, The Spice Room focuses on regional specialties from across India. Their Goan pork vindaloo and Kerala-style seafood curries stand out.
9. India House (River North)
One of Chicago’s most elegant Indian restaurants, India House offers a refined dining experience with dishes like lobster masala and truffle naan. Their weekend champagne brunch buffet is a splurge-worthy treat.
10. Uru-Swati (Devon Ave)
This Gujarati vegetarian restaurant serves some of the best thalis in the city—a metal platter piled with small bowls of curries, breads, rice, and sweets. Their homemade chaas (spiced buttermilk) is the perfect digestive.
Final Thoughts
From Devon Avenue’s bustling Little India to trendy fusion spots downtown, best indian food in chicago scene offers incredible diversity. Whether you want quick street food bites or a luxurious dining experience, these restaurants showcase the depth and variety of Indian cuisine. The next time you’re craving bold spices and complex flavors, skip the chain restaurants and explore one of these authentic local gems instead.
