Dallas, on of the most prominent cities in Texas, USA has undergone a remarkable diversification in recent decades, and this has clearly impacted the culinary landscape of the city like never before. With an ever-increasing number of Indian residents and students—and so many Texans interested in Indian cuisine—the Indian restaurant scene in Dallas is now thriving like never before.
From traditional Indian restaurants that serve up buffets and vegetarian delights to those serving biryanis and other non-vegetarian feasts, the number of Indian restaurants offering more and more regional cuisines are on the rise. And then there are those places which offer modern Indian cuisine in the form of beautifully plated meals to Americanised burgers. If you are in Dallas, Texas, here are all the Indian restaurants you must check out.
Video Credit: YouTube/Hebbars Kitchen
1. Kalachandji’s
Also known as Dallas’ longest serving Indian vegetarian restaurant, Kalachandji’s is quite the institution. With its buffet-style approach and wide range of vegetarian curries, salads, desserts and drinks, this place continues to be a favourite for Dallas residents. Their Rajma Curry paired with rice, Pakoras and daily menus is best enjoyed while seated in their peaceful courtyard garden area.
USP Dishes: Rajma Curry Rice, Pakoras
Location: 5430 Gurley Ave.
Timings: 11.30AM to 2PM & 5.30PM to 9PM
2. Ame
One of the pioneers of Indian fine dining in Dallas, Ame offers Indian classics served in classic French styles. Ame opened its doors in 2021 and is run by Chef Afifa Nayeb. Both the brunch and lunch menus here are incredibly alluring, with new age dishes like Masala Baked Eggplant in Turmeric Bechamel sauce, Biryani Fried Chicken and Waffles, and drinks like Masala Sour.
USP Dishes: Masala Baked Eggplant, Masala Sour
Location: 418 N Bishop Ave.
Timings: 5PM to 10PM; Weekends 11AM to 10PM
3. Curry Up Now
Despite the name, Curry Up Now is more famous for its American take on Indian street food rather than traditional curries paired with naan or rice. Everything from Vada Pav and Papdi Chaat to Kachori Chaat and Samosa Chaat is available here for those who love their chatpata Indian food. They also serve Tacos with Kachumber Salad, Itsy Bitsy Naan Bites and other Americanised Indian dishes.
USP Dishes: Kachori Chaat, Itsy Bitsy Naan Bites
Location: 5752 Grandscape Blvd., No. 310, The Colony
Timings: 10AM to 11PM
4. Kesari Indian Restaurant
A simple spot with incredibly delicious Indian food, Kesari has a good mix of starters and main courses to offer. Most popular for its incredible plates of Masala Dosa and Chole Bhature, Kesari also has plenty of chutneys and pickles on offer for that typical Indian homely taste. Their non-vegetarian selection boasts of an array of chicken and fish dishes, including a popular Chettinadu Fish Curry.
USP Dishes: Masala Dosa, Chole Bhature
Location: 3100 Independence Parkway, No. 319, Plano
Timings: (Tuesday to Sunday) 11.30AM to 2.30PM and 5.30PM to 9PM
5. Al Markaz
For more than two decades, Al Markaz has served Dallas residents with the meatiest dishes from the Indian subcontinent with gusto and delicious flavours. From something as simple as Dal Gosht to one of the best Butter Chicken in town, this place has it all on its menu. For vegetarians, the choices are plenty too. They also have a grocery and halal meat section where you can pick up some of the best to take back home.
USP Dishes: Dal Gosht, Butter Chicken
Location: 1205 W. Trinity Mills Road, No. 112, Carrollton
Timings: 11AM to 10.30PM
6. King And Cardinals
You might think of King And Cardinals with its name and standard façade as just another burger joint in Texas, but this eatery on the highway between Dallas and Frisco is loaded with burgers with an Indian twist. From a Grilled Paneer Burger to Masala Ham Burger, Tikka Masala Chicken Wings to Masala Corn-On-The-Cob, this place is perfect for an Indian-origin meal while on the go.
USP Dishes: Grilled Paneer Burger, Tikka Masala Chicken Wings
Location: 14550 State Hwy 121 Suite 160, Frisco
Timings: 11AM to 10PM
7. Red Hot Chilli Pepper
From its red interiors to a menu packed with red-hued dishes, Red Hot Chilli Pepper delivers just what it says it will—Indian spicy goodness with every mouthful. This place is known for its Indo-Chinese dishes, ranging from Chilli Chicken to Noodles that will immediately remind you of Indo-Chinese favourites in Indian cities. With a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, this place is a must-visit if you have a high spice tolerance.
USP Dishes: Chilli Chicken, Hakka Noodles
Location: 8549 Gaylord Parkway, No. 109, Frisco
Timings: 11.30 AM to 2.30PM and 6PM to 1AM
8. Vishnuji Ki Rasoi
A hidden gem with a simple décor and delicious vegetarian fare, Vishnuji Ki Rasoi is famed for its Maharashtrian cuisine. From Sev Bhaji to Varan Bhaat, Masala Baingan to Kadhi, this place serves food from Maharashtra like no other. They also have Indo-Chinese and North Indian dishes in their menu for those seeking more variety. Their weekday buffets are perfectly suited for those who want to get a wider taste of dishes.
USP Dishes:
Location: 2023 W. McDermott Drive, No. 180, Allen
Timings: 11.30AM to 2.30PM and 5PM to 10PM