Chicago, often celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, hosts a thriving community of Indian restaurants that contribute to the city's gastronomic richness. One of the striking features of Indian restaurants in Chicago is the wide variety of dishes they offer, reflecting the culinary diversity of India's regions. From the fiery curries of North India to the tangy tamarind-infused flavours of South India, each restaurant tells a unique culinary story.
Tandoori delights, such as succulent chicken tikka and naan bread fresh from the clay oven, are favourites among diners. Additionally, vegetarian options like aromatic biryanis, creamy paneer dishes, and crispy dosas cater to a diverse clientele. The restaurants also cater to dietary preferences, offering vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can savour the magic of Indian cuisine.
Indian restaurants in Chicago hold a special place in the hearts of both the Indian diaspora and the wider community. They serve as cultural ambassadors, introducing Chicagoans to the rich tapestry of Indian traditions and flavors. For members of the Indian community, these restaurants evoke nostalgia and provide a sense of home away from home. They offer a space where language, music, and cuisine converge, fostering a deep sense of cultural connection.
If you’re craving soulful Indian food while being in Chicago, don’t worry, as we have a list of Indian restaurants prepared for you in this foreign land. Take a look:
- India House
The restaurant is known for serving the best Indian food. The interiors and decor are dramatic, with mild lighting and vibrant colour adding to the perfect Indian feel for the foodies. You can choose the best of its 145 dishes from the menu. Some of its popular dishes include tandoori chicken, freshly baked smooth butter naan, and fish curry. It also serves traditional Indian desserts, specially chosen wines, and Indian beers.
Address: 59 W, Grand Ave, Chicago, IL, 60654, USA.
Specialties: Tandoori chicken, freshly baked smooth butter naan, and fish curry
Time: Mon-Thurs: 11:00 AM-2:30 PM; 5:00 -10:00 PM; Fri: 11:00 AM-2:30 PM; 5:00 PM-11:00 PM; Sat: 11:30 AM-3:00 PM; 5:00 -11:00 PM; Sun: 11:30 AM-3:00 PM; 5:00 -10:00 PM
- Vermilion
This hip and modern restaurant offers a blend of Latino cuisine and Indian treats. The black and white interiors, along with beautiful art and lighting, will mesmerise you. The dishes served here are all spicy and embracing. The signature dish is Portuguese lobster, simmered in a Goan sauce with garlic, cloves, mustard, cardamom, and spicy chilies. For non-spicy eaters, you can try out other mouth-watering dishes like artichoke pakoras.
Address: 10 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Specialties: Portuguese lobster in Goan sauce and artichoke pakoras.
Time: 5:30–9:00 PM
- Gaylord Indian Restaurant
This is the most popular North Indian restaurant in the city of Chicago. It is famous for its tandoori items like fish, lamb, and chicken. The mind-blowing interiors and décor of the restaurant provide an authentic Indian touch. It also serves a lunch buffet that, with Indian thalis (meals) and organic and fresh curries, will add a delicious, earthy meal to the day.
Address: 100 E Walton St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Specialties: Tandoori chicken, aloo papdi, spring rolls, mango lassi.
Time: Mon-Thurs: 4:30-9:00 PM; Fri: 11:30 AM-2:00 PM; 4:30-9:30 PM; Sat: 11:30 AM-2:30 PM; 4:30-9:30 PM; Sun: 11:30 AM-2:30 PM; 4:30-9:00 PM
- Cumin
It is a modern Indian restaurant located in the heart of the city. It is known to draw more Americans than Indians. It offers a wide range of menu items, namely chicken tikka masala, shrimp curry, lamb kebabs, and chicken tandoori. Chicken momo is one of the Nepalese treats in the restaurant. Besides, biriyani is also popular here. You can also treat yourself to a range of smooth drinks after the meal. The ambiance is warm and aesthetic, with a blend of Indian touches.
Address: 1414 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States
Specialties: Chicken tikka masala, shrimp curry, lamb kebabs, and chicken tandoori.
Time: Mon-Fri: 11:30 AM-2:30 PM; 4:30-10:00 PM; Sat-Sun: 11:30 AM-3:00 PM; 4:30-10:00 PM
- Jaipur
Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan. As the name suggests, the restaurant in Chicago serves authentic food from Rajasthan. From tandoori dishes to curries, the authenticity of Rajasthani dishes is best served here. The ambiance is vibrant and energetic and has a touch of Rajasthani culture. Some of the popular foods are tandoori dishes, tandoori lamb and chicken, mahi, lobsters, and prawns.
Address: 847 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607-2310
Specialties: Tandoori lamb and chicken, Mahi, lobsters, and prawns
- Naansense
This restaurant serves Indian dishes with a twist. The eatery will showcase experimental dishes with a mix-and-match of spices and flavours. The ambiance is eclectic, vibrant, and heart-warming. Some of the popular dishes are naam wraps, tikka bowls, korma bowls, masala fried, samosas, and others. If you’re a first-time Indian cuisine eater, then you must visit here to taste modern Indian foods.
Address: 178 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
Specialties: Naam wraps, tikka bowl, korma bowl, masala fried, samosas
Time: Mon-Fri: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM