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The Big Apple’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population, and its Indian food scene is no exception. To help you find the finest Indian restaurants in NYC, we reached out to the Indian diaspora to share their favorites. Bookmark this curation for a delicious Indian cuisine adventure in New York City!

Also read: California's finest Indian restaurants as rated by the diaspora

Bungalow 

Bungalow celebrates the rich heritage of Indian cuisine, where each dish reflects a blend of time-honored recipes and contemporary culinary techniques. Chef Vikas Khanna, well-known for his elevated approach to Indian cuisine in the United States said, “The menu reflects the diversity of post-independence culinary influences, capturing the vibrant club culture that shaped modern India— we’re proud to serve regional favorites from the Kashmir Valley to the pepper estates of Tamil Nadu.” 

The Indian American diaspora can’t get enough of Bungalow’s food and ambiance. “An unforgettable moment meeting the legendary Vikas Khanna! A true master of the culinary arts and an inspiration to so many. Grateful for the wisdom, warmth, and passion he brings to food and life. It was a memorable experience to enjoy the delicious and flavorful food with an amazing presentation. Bungalow is truly an expression of culture, heritage and creativity! It is not just a dining experience, It is a story, a saga to share with the world!” mentioned artist Poonam Garg.

Bungalow / Bungalow

Semma 

Semma is a Michelin-starred Indian eatery renowned for its distinctive take on South Indian cuisine by chef Vijay Kumar. The vibrant restaurant’s interiors by architect and designer Wid Chapman are inspired by the Deccan (region of South India) and are a combination of modern and traditional Indian design, boasting sleek lines, warm hues, and intricate artwork. Semma’s menu highlights include the Gunpowder Dosa, Valiya Chemmeen Moilee (Lobster Tail), Goanese Oxtail and the Meen Pollichathu (Banana Leaf Wrapped Branzino).

Presently, Semma is one of the hardest restaurants in NYC to get a reservation at. “The pride of walking into a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant as an Indian is a feeling that’s hard to explain or express. Chef Vijay Kumar’s humility and goodness permeate the air at Semma. Even with all these accolades, awards, and recognition, the chef remains unfazed yet grateful…I’ve eaten on the streets of Chennai. So when Chef Kumar’s interpretation of Kalan Varuval, or Roadside Kalan—a popular mushroom street food—hits all the right notes, just as it’s sold in the streets of Chennai, I immediately feel thankful to the chef for bringing these unique Southern Indian flavors, just as they are, across continents into New York City,” remarked NYC-based chef Piyali Sekhar.

Semma / Semma

Indian Accent, New York City

Indian Accent NYC’s modern Indian menu showcases adventurous techniques with traditional flavor profiles. ​​Conceptualized by BHDM Design under the design supervision of Rashmi Khattar, the eatery is a warm yet sleek restaurant that is contemporary and referential. Seasonal produce and locally sourced proteins are anchored in authentic Indian flavors and complemented with diverse ingredients from around the world. The menu focuses on Indian dishes that are less commonly seen in New York, all presented with a unique flair. Guests can enjoy the menu as a selection of three or four courses with a la carte options available at the bar and the patio. 

“Indian Accent NYC offers a symphony of textures and flavors, both familiar and innovative, transporting me back home. A beautiful culinary experience with the bright colors and wonderful presentation.The highlights were undoubtedly the Spicy Chili Crab on Sago, Chicken in Creamy Sauce, Assamese Pork Dumplings, and the delectable Prawns infused with Gun Powder,” stated Cristelle, author of La Cocina De Cristelle.

Indian Accent / Indian Accent

Tamarind 

Tamarind TriBeCa offers an upscale Indian dining experience in NYC. Its chic interiors complement a menu that balances authentic regional Indian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Praised for its commitment to quality, nuanced spices, and scrumptious preparations, Tamarind delivers a stylish journey through Indian gastronomy. Tamarind's menu highlights a diverse range of traditional and inventive Indian plates, including Palak Chaat, Masaledar Lamb Chops and Malai Halibut.

Jazba

Restaurateur Rajesh Bhardwaj presents Jazba as a showcase of India’s spirited roadside eateries, bringing India’s beloved hawker culture to the heart of the East Village. Central to India’s culinary identity, hawkers are diverse vendors of rich historical, cultural and religious significance that typically serve a single specialty dish. Michelin-starred chef Akshay Bhardwaj serves a transportive menu of the most iconic hawker specialties found throughout India. Menu highlights include the Pandi Curry, Green Chile Chicken, and Aminabad Ke Galouti, which is prepared at Jazba by one of the former cooks from the original dhaba in Lucknow, Tunday Kababi. 

“Jazba is from the team behind another award-winning Indian restaurant—Junoon. The food pays tribute to Indian hawkers, which you see in their menu. The must-try dishes are the Paneer Teh Pe Teh, Galouti Kebab, Paan Cocktail, Chole Bhature, and Surat Bread Roll. If you’re in New York City and craving some amazing Indian food now you know where to go,” concluded Tanay and Trishika Shahu, NYC-based food bloggers.

Jazba / Alex Lau