Cincinnati is a city of huge establishments of professional sports, arts, museums, cultural attractions and a vibrant culinary scene. Located on the banks of the river Ohio, this city’s thriving craft beer culture, its love for the chilli and culinary diversity are the greatest jewels of The Queen of The West.
Whether it's the city's famous Cincinnati chilli or comfort food there’s something for everyone to explore in this city’s culinary scene, and thanks to its diversity and welcoming attitude towards new communities, there’s plenty to sample on the Indian side as well. The city has become a hub for high-quality Indian restaurants offering quality food and a healthy experience for customers and through their offerings, Indian restaurants in Cincinnati showcase India's heritage to its fullest.
For those who are craving authentic Indian food, these top ten Indian restaurants in Cincinnati are a must-try.
1) Dusmesh Indian Restaurant & Bar
Dusmesh Indian Restaurant serves vivid Northern Indian cuisine. The restaurant has cheerful orange walls, a lovely patio, and a no-corkage-fee BYOB policy. Their varied menu features healthful, tasty dishes made using top ingredients. Popular meals include Chicken Curry, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Saag Paneer. They are known for their variable spice levels. The ample amounts satiate even the most insatiable appetites for approximately $20. This restaurant stands out as a top choice for authentic Indian eating in Cincinnati. Precisely balanced spices and pleasant service lures customers back. It provides a variety of tasty experiences.
Location: 944 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11 am–10 pm
Must Try: Chicken Curry, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chili Chicken, Saag Paneer, Dal Makhani
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: dusmeshcincy.com
Also Read: From Paani Puri To Champaran Meat- Relish Desi Food In These Best Indian Restaurants Of NYC
2) Ambar India Restaurant
Ambar India Restaurant is a modest business. It serves Northern Indian food and a selection of beer and wine. Their menu showcases the distinctive flavours of India. It includes renowned tandoori oven delicacies and rich Northern Indian curries. Guests love the authentic taste and diversity of dishes. Popular choices include Saag, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Vegetable Delight. This gem sits in the fashionable Gaslight district of Clifton and attracts a large vegetarian audience who rave about delicacies like Saag Paneer and Vindaloo. Ambar India is Cincinnati's favourite place for outstanding Indian dining experiences. Its impeccable service, intimate atmosphere, and delicious cooking are well-known.
Location: 350 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States
Timings: Mon-Fri: 11 am–10 pm; Sat: 11 am–9:55 pm; Sun: 11 am–9:30 pm
Must Try: Saag, Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Curry Dinner, Saag Paneer, Vindaloo, Lamb Curry, Garlic Nan, Malai Kofta, Aloo Tikki, Gulab Jamun
Price For 2: $50 approx.
3) Adeep India
Adeep India Restaurant is a casual dining spot in Cincinnati. It serves a wonderful selection of traditional Indian meals. The tandoori delicacies and Chicken Tikka Masala are among the most popular. Situated near the University of Cincinnati, their menu boasts Lamb Sabji, Paneer Tikka, and Goat Biryani. They also offer vegetarian options like Mushroom Matar. This restaurant is well-known for its quick online ordering and delivery services. Favourites include Naan, Garlic Naan, the well-known Chicken Tikka Masala, and Saag Paneer. Adeep India has a laid-back ambience that is ideal for parties and families. It caters to a wide range of palates looking for authentic Indian flavours.
Location: 350 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States
Timings: Mon-Sat: 11 am–10 pm; Sun: 11 am–9 pm
Must Try: Mushroom Matar, Naan, Garlic Naan, Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer, Lamb Sabji, Paneer Tikka, Goat Biryani
Price For 2: $40 approx.
4) Krishna Indian Restaurant and Carry Out
Krishna Carry Out is conveniently located near the University of Cincinnati campus and caters to the thriving student population. This no-frills restaurant provides traditional Indian cuisine in a convenient setup and is well-known for providing quick takeout and delivery service. Dishes such as Chicken Tikka Masala, veggie biryani, and chana masala can be found here with saag paneer and garlic naan being among the most ordered. Krishna is a popular hangout for those looking for high-quality Indian food at affordable prices.
Location: 313 Calhoun St, Cincinnati, OH 45219, United States
Timings: Mon-Sat: 11 am–9:30 pm; Sun: 12–9:30 pm
Must Try: Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Biryani, Chana Masala, Garlic Naan
Price For 2: $45 approx.
Image Credit: krishnacarryoutcincy.com
5) Swad Indian Restaurant
Swad Indian Restaurant in Cincinnati is a laid-back cafe. It emphasises authenticity with classic Indian food and an inviting ambience. Their dedication to excellence is evident in the seamless pickup and delivery of orders. The restaurant is well-known for its excellent service and amazing food. The most popular dishes include Garlic Naan, Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Samosa, and Saag Paneer although their helpful and knowledgeable staff are always willing to guide you with your choices. They also serve a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian plates making it a top choice for individuals seeking superb Indian cuisine in Cincinnati.
Location: 1810 Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45239, United States
Timings: Tue-Sun: 11 am–10 pm; Mon: Closed
Must Try: Garlic Naan, Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Samosa, Saag Paneer, Naan, Chicken Curry
Price For 2: $50 approx.
6) Elephant Walk Indian Bar And Grill
Elephant Walk is located at U Square at the Loop. It provides an inviting setting with an interesting mix of Ethiopian and Indian classics. The restaurant has a big, comfortable atmosphere and a full bar with beer on tap. Their chefs construct dishes using fresh, locally sourced, organic ingredients for a complete farm-to-table experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of tapas-style dishes, sampling the best of both cuisines. The courteous staff are known for their willingness to guide first-timers through the eclectic menu and are very accommodating of dietary sensitivities. Dishes, like Lamb Tikka Masala, Aloo Gobi, and Rogan Josh, have distinct flavours and flawless presentation.
Location: 170 W McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45219, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 8 am–11 pm
Must Try: Lamb Tikka Masala, Aloo Gobi, Rogan Josh, Makhni Curry, Vegetable Jalfrezi, Chef’s Salad
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: www.elephantwalkcincy.com
7) New Shaan Indian Cuisine
New Shaan Indian Cuisine is tucked away in a little strip mall but attracts a lot of customers for its North Indian dishes and lunch buffet which feature milder yet tasty recipes which highlight the richness and aroma of classic Indian cooking. Favourites include Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Pakora, and the cooling Kachumber Salad. Keema Naan, Chicken Biryani, Aloo Matar, and Saag Paneer are all recommended meals and come with the promise of precision and flavour consistency. Shaan Indian Cuisine is a good choice for exquisite North Indian dishes. It stands out due to sufficient parking and friendly service from the staff and the gracious owner who can often be found onsite.
Location: 3880 Paxton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45209, United States
Timings: Mon-Fri: 11 am–2:30 pm, 4:30–9:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11 am–9:30 pm
Must Try: Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Pakora, Kachumber Salad, Keema Naan, Chicken Biryani, Aloo Matar, Saag Paneer
Price For 2: $40 approx.
8) Amma's Kitchen
Amma's Kitchen in the Valley Shopping Center is a hub for kosher, vegetarian South Indian cooking and also serves up a popular vegan lunch buffet on Wednesdays. They emphasise elegant, inventive Indian food, adding South Indian flavours to traditional favourites and unusual creations. The staff is known for its competent and accommodating service and they willingly aid newcomers in understanding the varied menu. The all-vegan buffet was named one of Cincinnati's Best Restaurants in 2015. It adds excitement with daily varying specialities. For example, Dosas, Gobi Manchurian, and Palak Paneer. Customers praise the lovely eating experience and authentic South Indian cuisine. Dishes like Masala Dosa, Idli Vada Sambar, and Vegetable Upma are especially popular. Amma's Kitchen is a go-to destination for those seeking flavourful, vegetarian, and kosher Indian cuisine in Cincinnati.
Location: 7633 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45237, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11 am–2:30 pm, 5:30–9:30 pm
Must Try: Dosas, Podi Idli, Gobi Manchurian, Paneer butter masala, Palak Paneer, Garlic Naan, Paneer butter masala, Kadai paneer, Mutter paneer, Kadai Bhindi, Mirchi ka salan
Price For 2: $30 approx.
Image Credit: https://cincinnati.ammaskitchen.com/
9) Aap Indian Restaurant
Aap Indian Restaurant specialises in centuries-old authentic Indian food. It serves a variety of tasty meals made with care and fresh ingredients. Their professionally prepared meals accommodate a variety of spice preferences, from mild to hot which are served with Basmati rice, all with a focus on maintaining healthy nutritious meals. The inviting eatery prepares both North and South Indian delicacies and delights customers with favourites such as Tandoori Chicken, Goat Korma, Samosas and Saag Biryani. This hidden treasure on Cincinnati's west side is admired for its mom-and-pop vibe and reasonable pricing.
Location: 6430 Glenway Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45211, United States
Timings: Mon-Fri: 11 am–2:30 pm, 4:30–9:30 pm; Tue: Closed; Sat-Sun: 12–9:30 pm
Must Try: Goat Korma, Tandoori Chicken, Chicken Seekh Kabab, Paneer Makhani, Saag Choley, Nav Ratan Korma, Chicken Biryani
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: aapindiarestaurant.com
10) Delhi Palace Indian Cuisine
Delhi Palace in Silverton serves classic Indian cuisine in a relaxed setting with bright wall painting and booth seating. The restaurant allows diners to experience authentic flavours made from the freshest herbs and spices all in a welcoming modern atmosphere. Delhi Palace specialises in full-service catering and can accommodate everything from small workplace parties to large celebrations like weddings and graduations and has even won awards for freshness and swift service. Their menu has delectable favourites such as Tandoori Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala. In fact, they're known for the best Chicken Tikka Masala and Saag Choley in Cincinnati. Whether trying Indian cuisine for the first time or looking for a familiar flavour, Delhi Palace provides a great dining experience.
Location: 7133 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236, United States
Timings: Mon-Sat: 11:30 am–2:30 pm, 4:30–10 pm; Sun: 11:30 am–3 pm, 4:30–9 pm
Must Try: Chicken Tikka Masala, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Naan
Price For 2: $30 approx.