Best Indian Restaurants in Chicago: Where to Find the Best Indian Food in Chicago
Chicago is a city that takes its food seriously. With its rich cultural diversity and thriving culinary scene, it’s no surprise that the Windy City offers some of the best Indian restaurants in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy street food, indulgent North Indian curries, or comforting South Indian dosas, the best Indian food in Chicago is never too far away.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through the top spots to enjoy authentic, modern, and fusion Indian cuisine in Chicago.
1. Tandoor Char House
Location: Lincoln Park
Tandoor Char House blends traditional Indian flavors with Pakistani influences to create a unique culinary experience. Their marinated grilled meats—especially the chicken tikka and seekh kebabs—are cooked in a traditional tandoor oven, locking in smoky, spicy flavors. The menu also features creamy butter chicken, garlic naan, and vibrant biryanis. For many locals, this is the go-to place for the best Indian food in Chicago with a fusion twist.
2. Vajra
Location: West Town
Vajra is where tradition meets modernity. Using high-quality ingredients, the chefs at Vajra prepare classic Indian and Nepalese dishes with an elevated twist. The lamb vindaloo and goat curry are intensely flavorful, while the momos (Nepalese dumplings) are a must-try. Their cocktail menu also infuses Indian spices, offering a full sensory experience.
3. Rooh Chicago
Location: West Loop
For a more upscale Indian dining experience, Rooh is a top choice. Rooh means "soul" in Hindi, and that soulful energy is evident in every dish. Expect beautifully plated modern Indian cuisine with international influences. The pork belly vindaloo, truffle kulcha, and artfully spiced cocktails have earned it a spot among the best Indian restaurants in Chicago.
4. Indian Garden
Location: Near North Side
Indian Garden has been a staple of Chicago’s Indian food scene for years. Known for its extensive lunch buffet and wide-ranging à la carte menu, it caters to both traditionalists and adventurous diners. Their lamb rogan josh and palak paneer are rich and comforting, while the seafood options stand out for freshness and flavor.
5. Uru-Swati
Location: Devon Avenue
If you're looking for vegetarian Indian food, Uru-Swati is a hidden gem on Devon Avenue—Chicago’s unofficial Little India. Their thali platters give you a taste of everything, from tangy sambhar to sweet gulab jamun. The dosas are crisp and flavorful, and the chaat options are some of the best in the city.
6. Basant
Location: North Center
Basant brings fine-dining flair to traditional Indian cuisine. The stylish decor and attentive service set the stage for elevated dishes like duck curry, paneer tikka masala, and lobster moilee. Their wine list is curated to pair perfectly with Indian spices, making Basant an ideal spot for date night or special celebrations.
7. Rangoli
Location: Edgewater
Rangoli offers homestyle North Indian cooking in a cozy, casual environment. Their chicken curry and aloo gobi deliver bold flavors with no shortcuts. It's a popular choice among locals looking for comfort food, and their samosas and pakoras make for perfect starters or snacks.
8. Gaylord Fine Indian Cuisine
Location: Near North Side
An institution in Chicago’s Indian dining landscape, Gaylord offers an elegant setting and a refined take on traditional favorites. Whether you're in the mood for tandoori specialties or creamy kormas, Gaylord’s consistently high-quality dishes earn it a place among the best Indian restaurants in Chicago.
9. Sabri Nihari
Location: Devon Avenue
Though often categorized as Pakistani, Sabri Nihari deserves a mention for its outstanding South Asian fare. Their namesake dish, nihari, is a slow-cooked beef stew bursting with spices. Combined with fresh naan, it's the kind of hearty dish that sticks with you in the best way. For lovers of Indian and Pakistani food in Chicago, Sabri is not to be missed.
10. The Spice Room
Location: Logan Square
This vibrant, modern eatery brings the heat with bold flavors and colorful presentations. Favorites include lamb madras, fish curry, and mango chicken. The Spice Room’s laid-back vibe and consistently great food have made it a beloved neighborhood spot and a contender for the best Indian food in Chicago.
Devon Avenue: A Culinary Destination
No list of Indian restaurants in Chicago is complete without mentioning Devon Avenue. Stretching through Rogers Park, this street is lined with grocery stores, clothing shops, and eateries that transport you straight to South Asia. From sweet shops like Sukhadia’s to all-you-can-eat buffets, Devon Avenue is a destination in itself for Indian food lovers.
Indian Street Food in Chicago
Craving snacks and chaat? Chicago has options like Chiya Chai and Bombay Eats that specialize in fast-casual Indian fare. You’ll find items like pani puri, pav bhaji, bhel puri, and samosa chaat. These vibrant bites are perfect for lunch, a quick snack, or a pre-dinner appetizer.
Best Indian Takeout & Delivery Options
If you’re not dining out, many of the best Indian restaurants in Chicago offer takeout and delivery. Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub feature extensive menus from these top spots. It’s never been easier to enjoy the best Indian food in Chicago from the comfort of your own home.
Tips for Enjoying Indian Food in Chicago
-
Ask for spice levels: Indian food can range from mild to very spicy. Always let your server know your preference.
-
Try a thali: It’s a great way to sample multiple dishes in one meal.
-
Don’t skip dessert: Treat yourself to classic Indian sweets like gulab jamun, ras malai, or kheer.
Conclusion: Savor the Spice
Whether you’re a longtime lover of Indian cuisine or a curious newcomer, Chicago offers a rich tapestry of flavors, traditions, and modern interpretations. From family-owned gems on Devon Avenue to high-end fusion restaurants in West Loop, the best Indian food in Chicago is just a reservation (or delivery) away.
So the next time you’re craving tandoori, tikka, or thali, explore the vibrant world of Indian restaurants in Chicago—where every bite tells a story.