Chicago is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and Indian cuisine is a standout favorite among food lovers. Whether you’re craving buttery naan, spicy tandoori chicken, or rich, aromatic biryani, the Windy City offers an incredible selection of Indian restaurants that bring the vibrant flavors of the subcontinent to your plate. In this blog, we explore the best indian restaurants in chicago and highlight the dishes you simply must try.
The Heart of Indian Cuisine in Chicago: Devon Avenue
No discussion about best indian food in chicago is complete without mentioning Devon Avenue, often referred to as “Little India.” This stretch of West Ridge is lined with authentic Indian and Pakistani restaurants, grocery stores, sweet shops, and clothing boutiques. It’s the go-to destination for anyone seeking traditional Indian flavors and a cultural experience to match.
Tiffin Indian Kitchen is a popular choice on Devon Avenue, offering an extensive buffet and à la carte menu. Their butter chicken and saag paneer are crowd favorites, while the garlic naan is a must-have on every table. Just down the road, Sabri Nihari specializes in rich, slow-cooked curries and kebabs that showcase North Indian and Pakistani flavors.
Best Indian Restaurants in Downtown Chicago
While Devon Avenue is a treasure trove of authenticity, downtown Chicago boasts upscale Indian dining experiences perfect for date nights, business meetings, or foodie adventures.
Vermilion, located in River North, offers a unique fusion of Indian and Latin cuisines. Their lobster Portuguese curry and tandoori skirt steak are bold, flavorful, and unlike anything else in the city. For a more traditional approach, Rooh Chicago brings modern Indian dining to the West Loop with beautifully plated dishes like Kashmiri lamb shank and jackfruit tacos, paired with handcrafted cocktails infused with Indian spices.
Indian Garden, situated on North Clark Street, is another favorite for its classic menu and elegant ambiance. From the crispy samosas to the creamy tikka masala, every dish is prepared with high-quality ingredients and authentic spices.
Must-Try Dishes: Best Indian Food in Chicago
If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some signature Indian dishes to look for at top Chicago restaurants:
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Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) – A creamy, tomato-based curry with tender chicken, often served with basmati rice or naan.
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Chole Bhature – Spicy chickpeas served with puffed, fried bread—perfect for brunch or a hearty lunch.
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Biryani – A fragrant rice dish layered with marinated meat or vegetables, herbs, and spices. Don’t miss the Hyderabad-style biryani at Ghareeb Nawaz.
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Masala Dosa – A crispy, fermented rice crepe filled with spiced potatoes. South Indian restaurants like Udupi Palace serve excellent versions of this dish.
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Paneer Tikka – Marinated cubes of Indian cottage cheese grilled to perfection—great for vegetarians.
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Gulab Jamun – Soft milk-based dough balls soaked in rose-flavored sugar syrup; a popular dessert to end any Indian meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Indian cuisine naturally caters to vegetarian and vegan diets, with a rich array of lentil-based dishes (dal), vegetable curries, and plant-based appetizers. Restaurants like Arya Bhavan, a vegan Indian spot near West Ridge, serve delicious meals without dairy or animal products. Their vegan thali and dairy-free mango lassi are especially popular among health-conscious diners.
Hidden Gems and Takeout Favorites
While many restaurants offer dine-in experiences, some of the best Indian food in Chicago can be found at casual spots or takeout joints. Bombay Wraps is a fast-casual gem with multiple locations, serving Indian street food in a convenient format—try their chicken tikka roll or chickpea wrap.
Mild 2 Spicy, located in the South Loop, is a go-to for quick, flavorful meals with generous portions. Their goat curry and chili paneer receive rave reviews.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a fine-dining experience, a quick bite, or a cultural excursion through Devon Avenue, Chicago has something to offer every Indian food enthusiast. The best Indian restaurants in Chicago serve more than just delicious meals—they offer a gateway to a rich culinary tradition full of warmth, spice, and soul.
Next time you’re in the mood for something flavorful, skip the usual and dive into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine right here in the Windy City. From traditional curries to contemporary fusion, the best Indian food in Chicago is just around the corner.
