8 Best Indian Restaurants In The Upper West Side

Rain or Shine, it’s time to dine

Indian restaurants have gained immense popularity over the past couple of years. The combination of diverse flavors, authentic recipes, regional specialties, and a welcoming ambiance has contributed to their success, making them a culinary destination for food enthusiasts.

Check out our list of the best New York Indian restaurants located on the Upper West Side. These restaurants offer all your favorite regional dishes, as well as some specialties notable for their traditional or modern touches. Delicious vegetarian options, curries, grilled meats and sweets are among the delights from which to choose. You can click on any specific restaurant below to learn more about its cuisine and location, along with a map.

Alachi Masala – 488 Amsterdam (between W. 83rd & 84th Streets)

Starting in December 2006, Alachi Masali has become a neighborhood favorite serving authentic Indian cuisine. As with many Indian restaurants, you will find a very casual and comfortable environment.  

The menu showcases an array of classic Indian delicacies, from the Chicken Makhani (butter chicken) to the Chana Masala (chickpea curry). Vegetarians will find such items as Saag Paneer and the Aloo Matar Gobi (cauliflower, peas, and potatoes) are excellent choices. 

Angaar – 283 Columbus Avenue (between W. 73rd & 74th Streets)

Located on Columbus Avenue, Angaar is a casual Indian restaurant (5 tables as you walk in) that has limited table space. There is a small dining area on the second floor.  

The menu at Angaar showcases an array of classic Indian delicacies, from Chicken Tikka Masala to Chana Masala (chickpea curry). Vegetarians can find a selection of items, including Palak Paneer (spinach and cheese) and the Aloo Gobi (cauliflower and potato curry)

Baazi – 2588 Broadway (between W. 97th & 98th Streets)

Baazi is a modern Indian restaurant that has built its reputation on its innovative and flavorful cuisine. Located at 2588 Broadway, this eatery offers a dining experience that celebrates the diverse regional flavors of India with a contemporary twist.

Chef Gaurav Anand has developed a diverse menu, from their Kali Kachori (urad bean and lentil dumplings) to their Butter Kalan (a vegetarian take on butter chicken), each dish is a blend of traditional techniques and unexpected ingredients.

Check out the Chicken Cafreal, Butternut Squash, and the Imli Glazed Lamb Ribs all local favorites.

Doaba Deli – 945 Columbus Avenue (between W. 106th & 107th Streets)

Don’t let the size of the restaurant deter you from stopping in for some authentic taste of Punjabi cuisine. Doabi has garnered a loyal following among locals and visitors alike with a menu that delivers a blend of traditional Punjabi flavors with a focus on vegetarian and vegan options. One of their standout dishes is the Aloo Paratha, a flaky whole-wheat flatbread stuffed with a potato filling, served with some yogurt. The Chana Masala, a hearty chickpea curry is another crowd favorite.

Indian Tanpura – 564 Amsterdam Avenue (between W. 87th & 88th Streets)

The menu at Indian Tanpura showcases an array of classic Indian dishes, prepared with quality ingredients and aromatic spices. From the rich and creamy Chicken Korma to the Vegetable Curry, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to traditional cooking techniques. One of the standout offerings is the Palak Paneer, a combination of fresh spinach and homemade cheese in a sauce. The Garlic Naan, a fluffy flatbread infused with garlic, is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful curries.

Manhattan Valley – 2636 Broadway (corner of W. 100th Street)

Serves a selection of meat and vegan options. Manhattan Valley has been a neighborhood favorite since it open its doors in the summer of 2020

The restaurant showcases an array of classic dishes, expertly prepared with quality ingredients and a blend of aromatic spices. From the creamy Chicken Tikka Masala to the Chana Masala, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to a quality cuisine. One of the standout offerings is the Tandoori Chicken, marinated and cooked in a traditional clay oven.  The Garlic Naan, a flatbread infused with garlic, is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich curries.  The restaurant is conveniently located just steps from the 96th Street subway station.

Saravanaa Bhavan – 413 Amsterdam Avenue (between W. 79th & 80th Streets)

Saravanaa Bhavan is a vegetarian Indian restaurant that has become a staple in the Upper West Side neighborhood. The menu at Saravanaa Bhavan showcases an array of classic dishes. One of the standout offerings is their signature dosas – crispy, paper-thin lentil crepes served piping hot and accompanied by a variety of chutneys and sambar. For those seeking a heartier meal, the restaurant’s thali platters, featuring an assortment of curries, rice, and accompaniments that showcase the range of regional Indian flavors. The restaurant’s Glatt Kosher certification and extensive vegetarian menu make it an inclusive dining destination.

Swagat – 411A Amsterdam Avenue (between W. 79th & 80th Streets)

The menu at Swagat is keeping with providing traditional Indian flavors, with a focus on chaats (savory snacks) and tandoor oven specialties. One of the standout offerings is the Aloo Papri Chaat, a combination of wheat crisps, potatoes, chickpeas, and chutneys. The Malai Kabab, chicken morsels marinated in a creamy sauce and cooked in the tandoor, is another crowd favorite.  For those seeking heartier fare, Swagat’s curries are a delight. The Saag Paneer, a creamy spinach and homemade cheese curry, and the Lasuni Gobi, a cauliflower dish with garlic, are a must-tried dish.

Featured Image: Vikazkapoor – Wikimedia Commons