best indian food los angeles

Top 10 Best Indian Food Los Angeles

Exploring Indian Cuisine in Los Angeles

Indian Food Scene in L.A.

I can’t get enough of the Indian food scene in Los Angeles. Sure, the Bay Area and New York City might get more buzz, but L.A. has its own treasure trove of hidden gems and standout spots. From traditional dishes to modern twists, the city’s got a mix of flavors and experiences that keep me coming back for more.

What really gets me excited is the variety. You can find everything from classic recipes to new-age interpretations, all in one place. Chefs here are pushing boundaries while staying true to their roots, making every meal an adventure.

Culinary Variety

Los Angeles is a melting pot of flavors. Not only can you dive into authentic Indian dishes, but you can also explore Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan cuisines. There are chef-driven restaurants in Silver Lake and Downtown L.A. that are shaking up the South Asian dining scene. From budget-friendly spots in the San Fernando Valley to top-tier restaurants in Artesia’s Little India, the variety is mind-blowing.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can find:

Cuisine Type Must-Try Dishes Hotspots
Indian Butter Chicken, Biryani Artesia, Culver City
Pakistani Nihari, Karahi Koreatown
Bangladeshi Bhuna Khichuri, Panta Bhat Little Bangladesh
Sri Lankan Hoppers, Kottu Roti Scattered around

The mix of old-school and new-school dishes means there’s always something fresh to try. I love hunting down those rare regional dishes that don’t get much spotlight. L.A. is packed with desi restaurants that specialize in these hidden gems, making my food adventures even more thrilling.

To find the best Indian food in Los Angeles, I often check out guides that spotlight the city’s top eats. For more food inspiration, take a look at the best food los angeles guide. Whether I’m craving a comforting curry or a fiery biryani, L.A. always delivers!

Must-Try Indian Restaurants

When I think about the best Indian food in Los Angeles, my taste buds go wild with the incredible flavors and diverse dishes from various spots. Here are my top picks that you absolutely have to try!

Namaste Spiceland

Namaste Spiceland is a hidden treasure in Pasadena, Santa Clarita, and Thousand Oaks. This place shines with its South Indian dishes, especially dosas, and a delightful selection of Bombay street food. Plus, they offer groceries, so you can whip up some of your favorite dishes at home. It’s a perfect spot for anyone craving authentic flavors. For more details, visit Eater LA.

Location Highlights
Pasadena Dosas, Bombay street food
Santa Clarita Grocery options, South Indian dishes
Thousand Oaks Casual dining experience

Tulsi Indian Eatery

Tulsi Indian Eatery has locations in Downtown, Northridge, Westwood, and Riverside. This restaurant offers a fantastic mix of Northern and Southern Indian specialties. You have to try the Gujarati dishes, especially the loaded makhani fries drizzled with tikka masala gravy. It’s a feast for the senses! Check out more at Eater LA.

Location Highlights
Downtown Northern Indian specialties
Northridge Southern Indian dishes
Westwood Gujarati highlights
Riverside Makhani fries with tikka masala

Baja Subs Market & Deli

Baja Subs Market & Deli has expanded its Sri Lankan menu and is a must-visit for anyone looking to try remarkable Sri Lankan food alongside Indian flavors. Their koturoti with lamb curry and egg hoppers are out of this world. I often find myself craving their chicken biryani. Discover more about this culinary hotspot at Eater LA.

Location Highlights
Los Angeles Sri Lankan food, koturoti, egg hoppers

Tara’s Himalayan Cuisine

Tara’s Himalayan Cuisine is a delightful restaurant located in Westside, serving hearty dishes from Nepal. The steamed momos are a must-try, and the Khasi ko Masu—slow-cooked bone-in goat meat simmered in tomato sauce—is simply divine. Don’t miss their second location in Brentwood! For more information, visit Eater LA.

Location Highlights
Westside Steamed momos, Khasi ko Masu
Brentwood Additional location for more options

Abhiruchi Grill Indian Restaurant

Abhiruchi Grill is known for its delicious biryanis and a variety of vegetarian and meat dishes. I particularly enjoy their gobi Manchurian and navratan korma. The flavors are rich, and the portions are generous. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to explore different Indian dishes. For further details, visit Eater LA.

Location Highlights
Los Angeles Biryani, gobi Manchurian, navratan korma

Exploring these restaurants lets me dive into the vibrant Indian food scene in Los Angeles. For more culinary adventures, don’t forget to check out the best food in Los Angeles!

Unique South Asian Dining Spots in Los Angeles

Los Angeles might not be the first place you think of for Indian or South Asian food, but it’s packed with amazing spots that deserve your attention. Here are some standout places that mix flavors and experiences like no other.

Chef-Driven Eateries in Silver Lake

Silver Lake is where culinary creativity meets South Asian flavors. Here, chefs are putting their own twist on traditional dishes, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to make every bite unforgettable. Whether it’s fusion dishes or authentic flavors, dining in Silver Lake is always an adventure.

Check out these popular spots:

Restaurant Name Specialty
Pijja Palace Indian-inspired pizza
Roots Indian Bistro Modern Indian fare with a twist

These places show just how versatile Indian cuisine can be, appealing to all kinds of taste buds.

Culinary Gems in Downtown L.A.

Downtown Los Angeles is buzzing with South Asian restaurants that are worth your time. These spots focus on regional dishes and ingredients, giving you a true taste of India, Pakistan, and beyond. The lively atmosphere makes them perfect for a meal with friends or family.

Don’t miss these:

Restaurant Name Specialty
Mayura Restaurant South Indian cuisine
Abhiruchi Grill Indian grill and curry dishes

Each restaurant tells its own culinary story, showcasing the rich tapestry of South Asian flavors.

Standout Restaurants in Artesia

Artesia’s Little India is a goldmine for South Asian food. This area is packed with authentic dishes and cultural experiences. From Gujarati thalis to flavorful biryanis, Artesia has it all. Rajdhani is a favorite for its elaborate vegetarian platters, offering a changing thali with delicious items like daal and chapati (Time Out Los Angeles).

Here are some standout spots:

Restaurant Name Specialty
Rajdhani Gujarati thalis
Tara’s Himalayan Cuisine Nepalese and Indian fusion

Exploring these restaurants not only satisfies your cravings but also lets you appreciate the diverse culinary scene in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for the best Indian food in Los Angeles, these spots are a must-visit!

Specialties and Recommendations

If you’re craving Indian food in Los Angeles, you’re in for a treat. The city’s got a fantastic range of flavors, from spicy to savory, and everything in between. Here are some of my top picks, showcasing regional dishes, signature favorites, and options for both vegetarians and meat lovers.

Regional Indian Fare

India’s got a ton of different flavors depending on where you look, and LA’s got a bit of everything. Check out these highlights:

Region Specialty Dish Notable Restaurant
South India Dosas and Uthappam Namaste Spiceland (Eater LA)
Northern India Makhani Fries and Tikka Masala Tulsi Indian Eatery (Eater LA)
Gujarat Thali with Daal and Chapati Rajdhani (Time Out Los Angeles)
Kerala Fish Curry Mayura Restaurant (Time Out Los Angeles)

Sampling these regional dishes is like taking a tasty trip across India without leaving LA.

Signature Dishes

Every restaurant has its own twist, but some dishes are must-tries no matter where you go:

Dish Description
Biryani A fragrant rice dish with marinated meat or veggies, famously served at Abhiruchi Grill Indian Restaurant (Eater LA).
Gobi Manchurian Crispy cauliflower in a tangy sauce, a beloved Indo-Chinese dish found at various spots.
Navratan Korma A rich, creamy curry with mixed veggies and nuts, perfect for everyone.

These dishes aren’t just food—they’re experiences that showcase the best of Indian cuisine.

Vegetarian and Meat Options

Indian food is great because it caters to everyone. Whether you’re a veggie lover or a meat enthusiast, there’s something for you. Places like Abhiruchi Grill Indian Restaurant have a diverse menu, and Mayura Restaurant offers health-conscious and vegan options too.

Type Options
Vegetarian Daal, Navratan Korma, Gobi Manchurian
Meat Chicken Tikka, Lamb Biryani, Fish Curry

With so many choices, everyone can find something they love. If you’re searching for the best Indian food in Los Angeles, these recommendations will definitely hit the spot. Enjoy the culinary adventure!

Hidden Gems and New-School Joints

Los Angeles is packed with hidden treasures and fresh dining spots that highlight the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. From budget-friendly places in the San Fernando Valley to innovative eateries run by a new generation, there’s a lot to explore.

Affordable Spots in San Fernando Valley

Craving delicious Indian food without emptying your wallet? The San Fernando Valley has you covered. These restaurants offer authentic flavors and generous portions at prices that won’t make you wince.

Restaurant Name Notable Dish Price Range
Tandoori Nights Chicken Tikka $10 – $15
India Sweets & Spices Chole Bhature $8 – $12
Curry House Butter Chicken $12 – $16

These spots not only serve affordable meals but also embody the spirit of Indian hospitality. The friendly atmosphere and flavorful dishes make them a favorite for many, including myself.

Notable New-Generation Restaurants

The culinary scene in L.A. is evolving, thanks to new-generation restaurants that bring fresh perspectives to traditional Indian fare. Places like Pijja Palace and Roots Indian Bistro are run by second-generation Asian Americans who blend classic recipes with modern twists.

These eateries focus on creative dishes that highlight regional specialties while incorporating local ingredients. It’s exciting to see how they honor their heritage while appealing to contemporary palates.

Hard-to-Find Regional Cuisine

L.A. is a treasure trove for those seeking hard-to-find regional dishes from India and beyond. From the elaborate platters of Gujarati cuisine at Rajdhani to the rich South Indian flavors at Mayura Restaurant, there’s something for everyone.

Cuisine Type Dish Examples Location
Gujarati Thali, Daal, Chapati Rajdhani, Artesia
South Indian Uthappam, Kerala-style Fish Curry Mayura, Culver City

Each visit to these restaurants is a chance to explore the diverse culinary landscape of South Asia. I love how these establishments celebrate their roots while making their dishes accessible to everyone.

Los Angeles might not be the first city you think of for Indian cuisine, but with so many hidden gems and new-school joints, it’s clear that the city is making strides in showcasing the best Indian food around. For more food adventures, check out our guide to the best food in Los Angeles.

Standout Indian Restaurants in Los Angeles

When I think of the best Indian food in Los Angeles, a few places immediately come to mind. Each of these restaurants offers a unique twist on traditional Indian cuisine, making them must-visit spots in the city.

Rajdhani in Artesia’s Little India

Rajdhani is a gem hidden in Artesia’s Little India. This restaurant is famous for its elaborate platters of Gujarati cuisine, particularly its vegetarian dishes. They serve an ever-changing thali, which includes a delightful assortment like daal, chapati, and okra stew. What I love is that they accommodate different dietary preferences with vegan, gluten-free, and Jain (allium-free) options (Time Out Los Angeles).

Dish Description
Thali A platter featuring various dishes, allowing you to sample a little bit of everything.
Daal A flavorful lentil soup that pairs perfectly with chapati.
Okra Stew A deliciously spiced dish that adds a unique taste to your meal.

Mayura Restaurant in Culver City

Next on my list is Mayura Restaurant in Culver City. This place specializes in South Indian cuisine and is known for its health-conscious options. The flavors here are rich, thanks to generous use of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. I can’t get enough of their uthappam and Kerala-style fish curry, both of which have garnered praise from food critics, including the late Jonathan Gold and Top Chef’s Padma Lakshmi (Time Out Los Angeles).

Dish Description
Uthappam A thick pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, topped with vegetables.
Kerala-Style Fish Curry A tangy and spicy curry that showcases the coastal flavors of South India.

Pijja Palace and Roots Indian Bistro

Finally, I have to mention Pijja Palace and Roots Indian Bistro. These newer establishments are part of a wave of second-generation Asian American restaurants that are reimagining traditional Indian fare. They offer a creative menu that blends Indian flavors with comfort food classics. The atmosphere is casual, making it a great spot for hanging out with friends while enjoying some delicious dishes (Time Out Los Angeles).

Dish Description
Pijja A fusion dish that combines Indian spices with pizza, creating a unique flavor experience.
Roots Indian Bistro Special Features innovative dishes that showcase modern takes on classic Indian recipes.

These standout restaurants offer a fantastic taste of Indian cuisine in Los Angeles. If you’re on the hunt for the best food in Los Angeles, be sure to check them out!

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