Chigaco has been a hub for great restaurants for several decades. The city is best known for its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and the influences of different cultures in cuisine such as Italian, Mexican, and Indian. For several years, Indian restaurants have been delighting everyone's dining experience by serving a soulful meal. These iconic diners have established a mark in Chicago's culinary landscape and continue to do so.
From the oldest Indian restaurants like Gaylord to the newest like Rooh, diners can experience one of the finest Indian meal experiences in Chicago. Through this article, we have compiled a list of the best Indian restaurants in Chicago arranged in chronological order of their date of establishment. Along with that, we have described their must-have dishes and prices for two, so one can expect what special they’ll get while visiting these restaurants.
Indian Garden (Since 1977)
Our journey begins with a visit to Indian Garden, a pioneer in bringing authentic Indian flavours to Chicago. Established in 1977, this venerable restaurant has stood the test of time, delighting generations of Chicagoans with its classic Indian dishes. From aromatic biryanis to flavourful curries, Indian Garden continues to be a cornerstone of the city's Indian dining experience. The Indian Garden serves an array of delectable Indian meals from all across the nation, and offers a delightful experience for everyone wanting to devour flavoursome meals.
Location: 247 E Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Must Try: Garlic Naan, Murgh Tikka Masala, Basmati Rice, Punjabi Samosa
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11:00-22:00
Price for 2: $40
Gaylord Fine Indian Cuisine (Since 1986)
Next on the list is Gaylord Fine Indian Cuisine, a culinary institution that has been enchanting diners since 1986. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Gaylord has consistently offered a sophisticated dining experience. Their diverse menu, blending traditional and contemporary Indian dishes, has earned them a reputation as one of Chicago's finest. From the classic chicken tikka masala to the best saag paneer, this restaurant has everything for non-vegetarians and vegetarians alike.
Location: 100 E Walton St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Must Try: Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer, Tandoori Chicken
Timings: Mon: 3–8 pm; Tue-Thu: 4:30–9 pm Fri: 11:30 am–2 pm, 4:30–9:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11:30 am–2:30 pm, 4:30–9:30 pm
Price for 2: $40
Jaipur Royal Indian Cuisine (Since 1992)
Moving into the early '90s, Jaipur Royal Indian Cuisine emerges as a standout destination. Established in 1992, Jaipur has become a new definition of regality in Indian dining. The decor of the restaurant portrays elaborately dressed Rajasthani puppets waiting to welcome the customers, and the walls are laced with intricate paintings and royal interior design, which displays Indian Heritage marvellously. The restaurant's commitment to using authentic spices and traditional cooking methods ensures a royal feast for people seeking a taste of India's rich culinary heritage.
Location: 9401 Lee Hwy #105, Fairfax, VA 22031, United States
Must Try: Navratan Korma, Malai Kofta, Jaipuri Kulcha, Badshahi Kulfi With Falooda
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11:30–14:30 and 17:00-21:30
Price for 2: $60
Image Credit: https://www.jaipurcuisine.com
Vermilion (Since 2004)
Breaking the mould in 2004, Vermilion introduced Chicago to a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Latin American flavours. This innovative approach has earned Vermilion a place among the city's culinary trailblazers. With its chic ambience and inventive menu, Vermilion continues to captivate diners looking for a unique twist on traditional Indian cuisine. The restaurant features several famous Indian dishes along with contemporary fusions of the dish, to cater for the vast majority of Indian food lovers in the city.
Location: 10 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
Must Try: Cantonese Indian Lobster, Tangra Mad Masala Rice, What's Your Beef?, Sex dessert
Timings: Tue-Thu:17:30-22:00; Fri-Sat: 17:00-22:30; Closed Sunday and Monday.
Price for 2: $60
Chicago Curry House (Since 2008)
A relatively new entrant into Chicago's Indian dining scene, Chicago Curry House opened its doors in 2008. This restaurant stands out for its commitment to authenticity and diverse regional flavours. From the fiery curries of South India to the rich gravies of the North, Chicago Curry House offers a comprehensive journey through India's diverse culinary landscape. Chicago Curry House goes beyond the comforting curry dishes, encompassing every famous dish in India and offering a wholesome meal experience.
Location: 899 South Plymouth Ct, Chicago IL 60605
Must Try: Momos, Nepali Thali, Tandoor-Chicken, Tandoori Naan
Timings: Mon-Sun: 10:00-21:00
Price for 2: $40
Image Credit: Chicago Curry House | www.diningchicago.com
Moti (Since 2019)
Redefining the casual desi dining experience in Chicago, Moti Cafe has been filling the cravings of Chicagoans since 2019. Even while being one of the most recent Indian cafes in the city, Moti has earned its title as “Perl in the City” for serving a fine Indian dining experience with a smile. The concept of the restaurant struck Jay Patel, owner of the restaurant, after seeing the fast food culture in the city. He envisioned a fine dining experience for working people and began his startup with the idea of serving wholesome meals every single day.
Location: 70 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654, USA
Must Try: Samosa Chaat, Tikka Masala, Build your own Platter, Wada-A-Pizza
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Price for 2: $15
Rooh Chicago (Since 2020)
Last but not least, this list concludes with the finest Indian newcomer, Rooh Chicago. This restaurant quickly made its mark as one of the most popular Indian restaurants since its opening in 2020. With a focus on modern Indian cuisine, Rooh offers a progressive and artful approach to traditional flavours. The restaurant's chic setting and inventive dishes make it a standout destination for those looking to explore the evolving landscape of Indian kitchens in Chicago.
Location: 736 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States
Must Try: Kulcha, Kashmiri-style lamb ribs, Kolidwada fish, Tandoor Smoked Pork Belly
Timings: Mon-Thu: 17:00-22:00; Fri-Sun: 13:00-22:30;
Price for 2: $60
From the longstanding establishments that laid the foundation to the innovative newcomers shaping the future, Chicago's Indian restaurants offer a dynamic and diverse culinary experience. Whether one is drawn to the classic charm of Indian Garden or the contemporary vibes of Rooh, the Windy City's Indian dining scene has something to satisfy every palate.