How to Find and Enjoy the Best Indian Food in the World: A Complete Guide
Indian cuisine is one of the most diverse and delicious in the world, with a rich history and culture that spans thousands of years and regions. Whether you crave spicy vindaloo, creamy butter chicken, crispy dosa or fluffy naan, there is an Indian restaurant for you. But how do you find the best one among the many options available? Here are some tips and recommendations to help you discover your favorite Indian restaurant.
What to Look for in an Indian Restaurant
There are many factors that can influence your choice of an Indian restaurant, such as location, price, ambiance, service and hygiene. However, the most important thing is the quality and authenticity of the food. Here are some things to look for when evaluating an Indian restaurant:
Variety: A good Indian restaurant should offer a wide range of dishes from different regions and cuisines of India, such as North Indian, South Indian, Mughlai, Gujarati, Bengali and more. You should be able to find vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal options as well.
Freshness: A good Indian restaurant should use fresh ingredients and prepare the dishes from scratch. You should be able to smell and taste the spices and herbs that are essential for Indian cooking. Avoid restaurants that use canned or frozen food or rely on premade sauces and mixes.
Flavor: A good Indian restaurant should balance the flavors of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy in their dishes. You should be able to customize the level of spiciness according to your preference. The dishes should not be too oily or greasy or have artificial colors or flavors.
Presentation: A good Indian restaurant should present their dishes in an appealing and appetizing way. You should be able to see the texture and color of the food and enjoy the garnishes and accompaniments. The portions should be generous and satisfying.
How to Order at an Indian Restaurant
If you are new to Indian cuisine or want to try something different, here are some tips on how to order at an Indian restaurant:
Start with an appetizer: You can choose from a variety of snacks and starters that are usually fried or baked and served with chutneys or sauces. Some popular choices are samosas (pastries filled with potatoes and peas), pakoras (fritters made with vegetables or meat), chaat (salads with crunchy toppings) and kebabs (skewers of marinated meat or vegetables).
Choose a main course: You can choose from a variety of curries, stews, stir-fries and rice dishes that are usually served with breads or rice. Some popular choices are dal (lentil soup), paneer (cheese) dishes, chicken tikka masala (grilled chicken in a tomato-based sauce), lamb rogan josh (lamb cooked with yogurt and spices), biryani (rice cooked with meat or vegetables) and pulao (rice cooked with spices).
Add some breads: You can choose from a variety of flatbreads that are usually made with wheat or rice flour and cooked on a griddle or in a clay oven. Some popular choices are naan (soft and fluffy bread), roti (thin and crisp bread), paratha (layered and flaky bread), kulcha (stuffed bread) and poori (puffed bread).
Don’t forget the sides: You can choose from a variety of accompaniments that enhance the flavor and texture of your main course. Some popular choices are raita (yogurt with cucumber or mint), pickle (spicy relish made with fruits or vegetables), papadum (crispy lentil cracker) and salad (fresh greens with lemon juice or vinegar).
End with a dessert: You can choose from a variety of sweets that are usually made with milk, sugar, nuts and fruits. Some popular choices are kheer (rice pudding), gulab jamun (deep-fried dough balls soaked in syrup), rasgulla (spongy cheese balls soaked in syrup) and kulfi (frozen milk dessert).
Where to Find the Best Indian Restaurants
If you are looking for the best Indian restaurants in your area or around the world, here are some sources that can help you:
Online reviews: You can check online platforms such as Yelp, Tripadvisor or Eater that feature ratings, reviews, photos and menus of various Indian restaurants. You can filter by location, price range, cuisine type, delivery option and more.
Word-of-mouth: You can ask your friends, family, colleagues or neighbors who share your taste for Indian food for their recommendations. You can also join online communities such as Facebook groups or Reddit forums that discuss Indian food and restaurants.
Local guides: You can consult local publications such as newspapers, magazines or blogs that feature articles, lists or awards on the best Indian restaurants in your city or region. You can also look for signs such as Michelin stars, Zagat ratings or certificates of excellence that indicate quality and recognition.
Conclusion
Indian food is one of the most diverse and delicious cuisines in the world, with a rich history and culture that spans thousands of years and regions. Whether you crave spicy vindaloo, creamy butter chicken, crispy dosa or fluffy naan, there is an Indian dish for you. You can find Indian food in many countries around the world, where it is loved and appreciated by people of different backgrounds and tastes. Indian food is not only tasty but also healthy, as it uses fresh ingredients, spices and herbs that have various benefits for your body and mind. So go ahead and try some of these popular Indian dishes today! You won’t regret it!
Indian cuisine is a feast for the senses that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy a casual meal with your family or friends, celebrate a special occasion with your partner or impress your clients with your business acumen, you can find an Indian restaurant that suits your needs. All you need is some curiosity, some appetite and some tips on how to find the best one.
Related Searches:
Best Indian Restaurants in America
If you want to experience some of the best Indian restaurants in America, here are some suggestions based on online reviews:
Adda Queens, NY: This restaurant serves authentic street food from India’s bustling cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. Try their keema pao (spicy minced lamb with bread), biryani dum pukht (slow-cooked rice with meat) and kulfi falooda (ice cream with noodles).
August 1 Five San Francisco, CA: This restaurant offers modern interpretations of classic dishes from India’s diverse regions such as Punjab, Kerala and Goa. Try their gol guppa flight (crispy shells filled with flavored water), lamb shank nihari (braised lamb with saffron rice) and carrot halwa cake (carrot cake with cream cheese frosting).
Badmaash Los Angeles, CA: This restaurant combines traditional flavors with contemporary twists inspired by LA’s multicultural scene. Try their chicken tikka poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and chicken curry), spicy lamb burger (lamb patty with mint chutney) and mango cheesecake samosa (fried pastry filled with cheesecake).
Indian Restaurant Near Me
If you want to find an Indian restaurant near you, here are some steps you can follow:
Use your smartphone’s GPS feature to locate your current position.
Open a web browser or an app such as Google Maps or Yelp that allows you to search for nearby businesses.
Type “Indian Restaurant” in the search bar and hit enter.
Browse through the results that show up on the map or list view.
Check the distance, ratings, reviews, photos and menus of each result.
Choose the one that appeals to you the most and click on it for more details.
Call ahead to make a reservation if needed or order online for delivery if available.
Best Indian Restaurant Near Me
If you want to find the best Indian restaurant near you based on your personal preferences, here are some steps you can follow:
Use your smartphone’s GPS feature to locate your current position.
Open a web browser or an app such as Google Maps or Yelp that allows you to search for nearby businesses.
Type “Indian Restaurant” in the search bar and hit enter.
Filter the results by price range ($ – $$$$), cuisine type (North Indian – South Indian), delivery option (Yes – No) etc.
Sort the results by relevance (Best Match – Most Reviewed – Highest Rated) etc.
Browse through the top results that match your criteria.
Check the ratings, reviews.
FAQs
Which country is best for Indian restaurant?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different countries may have different standards, preferences and availability of Indian food. However, some of the factors that may influence the quality and popularity of Indian restaurants in a country are:
The size and diversity of the Indian diaspora in that country, which may create a demand and supply for authentic and varied Indian food.
The exposure and acceptance of the local population to Indian food, which may affect the level of adaptation and innovation of Indian dishes to suit the local palate.
The availability and affordability of ingredients, equipment and staff that are essential for Indian cooking, which may affect the freshness, flavor and presentation of the food.
Based on these factors, some of the countries that are known for having a large number of Indian restaurants and a high appreciation for Indian food are:
The United Kingdom: The UK has a long history of colonial and cultural ties with India, and has a large and diverse Indian community. Indian food is widely popular and considered a national cuisine in the UK, with dishes such as chicken tikka masala and naan bread becoming household staples. The UK also has some of the most acclaimed and awarded Indian restaurants in the world, such as Gymkhana, Dishoom and Benares.
The United States: The US has a growing and influential Indian population, especially in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston. Indian food is also gaining popularity among Americans, especially among younger generations who are more adventurous and open-minded about trying new cuisines. The US also has some of the most innovative and diverse Indian restaurants in the world, such as Adda, August 1 Five, Badmaash and Rasika.
India: Of course, the best place to enjoy authentic and regional Indian food is India itself. India is a vast and diverse country with 29 states and 8 union territories, each with its own distinct cuisine, culture and traditions. From the rich and creamy dishes of North India to the spicy and tangy dishes of South India, from the vegetarian delights of Gujarat to the seafood specialties of Goa, from the street food snacks of Mumbai to the royal feasts of Hyderabad, India has something for every taste and preference.
Which country loves Indian food?
Again, there is no definitive answer to this question, as different countries may have different levels of love and appreciation for Indian food. However, some of the factors that may indicate how much a country loves Indian food are:
The frequency and amount of consumption of Indian food by the local population, which may reflect their familiarity and preference for Indian food.
The diversity and quality of Indian restaurants available in that country, which may reflect their demand and expectation for Indian food.
The recognition and reputation of Indian food in that country, which may reflect their respect and admiration for Indian food.
Based on these factors, some of the countries that are known for loving Indian food are:
Canada: Canada has a large and diverse South Asian population, especially in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary. Canadian cuisine is also influenced by various ethnic groups and cultures, making it more receptive and inclusive of Indian food. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also a fan of Indian food and has visited several Indian restaurants during his official visits to India.
Australia: Australia has a growing South Asian population, especially in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Australian cuisine is also influenced by various Asian cuisines, making it more compatible and adaptable to Indian food. Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell is also a fan of Indian food and has learned to cook some dishes during his stay in India.
Singapore: Singapore has a significant South Asian population, especially from Tamil Nadu, Kerala
Is Indian food famous in USA?
Indian food is becoming more and more famous in the USA, as more Americans are discovering and enjoying the diversity and deliciousness of Indian cuisine. According to a 2019 report by the National Restaurant Association, Indian food ranked among the top five fastest-growing ethnic cuisines in the US, with a 7% increase in sales from 2018 to 2019. Indian food also ranked among the top five most popular ethnic cuisines for takeout and delivery, with 36% of Americans ordering it at least once a month.
Some of the reasons why Indian food is famous in the USA are:
The growing presence and influence of Indian Americans, who make up the second-largest immigrant group in the US and contribute to the cultural and culinary diversity of the country.
The increasing awareness and appreciation of Indian food among Americans, who are more adventurous and curious about trying new cuisines and flavors, especially those that are spicy, vegetarian or vegan-friendly, and health-conscious.
The availability and accessibility of Indian food across the US, with more Indian restaurants opening up in various cities and states, offering a range of dishes from different regions and styles of India, as well as fusion and modern interpretations of Indian food.
What is America’s favorite Indian dish?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different Americans may have different preferences and tastes for Indian food. However, based on online reviews and popularity, some of the most common and favorite Indian dishes among Americans are:
Butter Chicken: This dish consists of tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce with butter and spices. It is usually mild to medium-spicy and served with naan bread or rice. It is one of the most popular Indian dishes in the world and a great introduction to Indian cuisine for beginners.
Chicken Tikka Masala: This dish consists of grilled or roasted chunks of chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then simmered in a thick and creamy sauce with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger and more spices. It is usually medium to hot-spicy and served with naan bread or rice. It is one of the most ordered dishes in Indian restaurants in the US and the UK, where it is considered a national dish.
Biryani: This dish consists of basmati rice cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb or goat), vegetables, nuts, dried fruits and spices such as saffron, cardamom and cinnamon. It is usually mild to medium-spicy and served with raita (yogurt with cucumber or mint) or pickle (spicy relish). It is one of the most flavorful and fragrant dishes in Indian cuisine and a festive dish for special occasions.
Samosa: This snack consists of deep-fried pastries filled with potatoes, peas, onions, spices and sometimes meat or cheese. It is usually mild to medium-spicy and served with chutneys (sauces) such as mint, tamarind or mango. It is one of the most popular street foods in India and a common appetizer in Indian restaurants in the US.
Naan: This bread consists of leavened dough made with wheat flour, yogurt, water, yeast and salt, then cooked on a griddle or in a clay oven called a tandoor. It is usually soft and fluffy and can be plain or stuffed with cheese, garlic, onion or nuts. It is one of the most versatile and essential accompaniments for Indian dishes, especially curries.
Which Indian food is famous around the world?
Indian food is famous around the world for its diversity, flavor, aroma and health benefits. Indian food has spread to many parts of the world, thanks to the migration and influence of Indians and their culture. Some of the countries where Indian food is famous are:
The United Kingdom: The UK has a long history of colonial and cultural ties with India, and has a large and diverse Indian community. Indian food is widely popular and considered a national cuisine in the UK, with dishes such as chicken tikka masala and naan bread becoming household staples. The UK also has some of the most acclaimed and awarded Indian restaurants in the world, such as Gymkhana, Dishoom and Benares.
The United States: The US has a growing and influential Indian population, especially in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston. Indian food is also gaining popularity among Americans, especially among younger generations who are more adventurous and open-minded about trying new cuisines and flavors. The US also has some of the most innovative and diverse Indian restaurants in the world, such as Adda, August 1 Five, Badmaash2 and Rasika.
Canada: Canada has a large and diverse South Asian population, especially in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary. Canadian cuisine is also influenced by various ethnic groups and cultures, making it more receptive and inclusive of Indian food. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also a fan of Indian food and has visited several Indian restaurants during his official visits to India.
Australia: Australia has a growing South Asian population, especially in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. Australian cuisine is also influenced by various Asian cuisines, making it more compatible and adaptable to Indian food. Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell is also a fan of Indian food and has learned to cook some dishes during his stay in India.
Singapore: Singapore has a significant South Asian population, especially from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Sri Lanka. Singaporean cuisine is also influenced by various Asian cuisines, making it more diverse and fusion-oriented with Indian food. Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is also a fan of Indian food and has praised its variety and flavor.
These are just some of the countries where Indian food is famous, but there are many more where you can find delicious and authentic Indian dishes. Whether you are traveling or staying at home, you can always enjoy the taste of India with its amazing cuisine.
