Top 10 Indian Restaurants in California
Indian Restaurants in USA

Top 10 Indian Restaurants in California

Amber India

Trust me, if you're looking for an upscale Indian dining experience that truly delivers, Amber India in San Jose is where you need to be. This isn't just a meal; it's an event. From the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in an elegant ambiance, perfect for a special occasion or when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Locals know their weekend buffet is legendary, offering an expansive spread of Northern Indian delights that will make your taste buds dance. Don't miss their succulent Lamb Rogan Josh or the perfectly spiced Butter Chicken – they're absolute showstoppers.

The atmosphere here is refined yet welcoming, with attentive service that makes you feel like royalty. While it's definitely on the pricier side, expect to spend around $40-70 per person for dinner, it's absolutely worth it for the quality of ingredients and the masterful execution of every dish. They also have an impressive wine list to complement the rich flavors. This is the kind of place where you'll want to linger, savoring every bite and enjoying the sophisticated vibe.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Amber India consistently earns high marks for its sophisticated ambiance and exquisite North Indian cuisine, often cited as a go-to for special occasions. With a solid 4.0-star reputation, diners frequently praise the extensive buffet and the tender, flavorful lamb dishes, though some note that the à la carte menu can be quite an indulgence.

📍 Address: 4926 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

Dosa on Fillmore

Oh, Dosa on Fillmore in San Francisco, you've captured my heart with your vibrant South Indian flavors! This isn't your typical North Indian curry house; Dosa brings the authentic, tangy, and spicy tastes of Southern India right to your table. You absolutely *have* to try their signature dosas – those massive, crispy crepes filled with everything from spiced potatoes to savory lamb. My personal favorite is the Masala Dosa, perfectly paired with their fresh chutneys and sambar. The atmosphere is buzzing, modern, and stylish, making it a fantastic spot for a lively dinner with friends or a fun date night.

Beyond the dosas, their curries are incredibly flavorful, and their cocktail program is surprisingly innovative, featuring Indian-inspired concoctions that are truly unique. Pricing is moderate for San Francisco, expect to spend around $30-50 per person for a satisfying meal, making it a great value for the quality and experience. Locals flock here for the consistently delicious food and the energetic vibe – it’s a true culinary escape to the south of India.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Dosa on Fillmore is celebrated for its authentic South Indian cuisine, particularly its namesake dosas, which are consistently praised for their crispiness and flavorful fillings. With a strong 4.0-star reputation, diners often highlight the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails, though some mention that it can get quite busy during peak hours.

📍 Address: 1700 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115

Zareen's

If you're ever in Palo Alto and craving something truly special, Zareen's is a non-negotiable stop. This place is a local legend, serving up incredible Pakistani and Indian comfort food in a casual, bustling setting. It’s the kind of spot where you can grab a quick, delicious lunch or settle in for a hearty dinner. You absolutely *must* try their Paratha Rolls – especially the Chicken Tikka or Beef Seekh Kebab ones – they are portable pockets of pure joy. And don't even think about leaving without a cup of their famous Chai; it's perfectly spiced and utterly comforting.

The vibe at Zareen's is unpretentious and friendly, often filled with students, tech workers, and families all enjoying the fantastic food. Pricing is incredibly reasonable, expect to spend around $15-25 per person, making it an everyday favorite. It’s a counter-service spot, but the food comes out quickly and is always fresh and flavorful. Locals know this is the go-to for authentic, home-style Pakistani and Indian dishes that hit all the right notes.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Zareen's is consistently lauded for its flavorful and authentic Pakistani and Indian comfort food, with the paratha rolls and chai being particular crowd-pleasers. Boasting an impressive 4.5-star reputation, diners frequently praise the casual, friendly atmosphere and the excellent value, though it can get quite busy during peak lunch hours.

📍 Address: 365 S California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Vik's Chaat

For an authentic taste of Indian street food, there's nowhere quite like Vik's Chaat in Berkeley. This isn't a fancy sit-down restaurant; it's a vibrant, bustling cafeteria-style spot that feels like a slice of India itself. The energy is infectious, and the aromas are intoxicating. You'll find yourself mesmerized by the array of colorful dishes being prepared right before your eyes. You absolutely *must* dive into their namesake chaats – the Sev Puri and Pani Puri are legendary, bursting with tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Don't be afraid to try a little bit of everything!

The atmosphere is lively and communal, with shared tables and a constant buzz of happy diners. It's incredibly affordable, expect to spend around $10-20 per person, making it perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. Locals know this is the real deal for Indian street food, and it’s a fantastic place to explore new flavors and textures. It’s a true institution in the Bay Area, and you'll love the vibrant, authentic experience.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Vik's Chaat is universally praised as a Bay Area institution for its authentic and vibrant Indian street food, with its various chaat dishes consistently highlighted as must-tries. With a strong 4.4-star reputation, diners frequently commend the bustling, energetic atmosphere and the incredible value, though be prepared for potential lines, especially on weekends.

📍 Address: 2390 Fourth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

Annapoorna

If you're a fan of South Indian vegetarian cuisine, or just looking to explore it, Annapoorna in Sunnyvale is a true hidden gem that locals swear by. This unpretentious spot serves up incredibly authentic and flavorful dishes that will transport you straight to the heart of South India. Their dosas are perfectly crisp and enormous, and their thalis (platter meals) offer a fantastic way to sample a variety of their delicious curries, sambar, and rasam. You absolutely *must* try their Mysore Masala Dosa for a spicy kick, or their fluffy Idlis.

The atmosphere is simple and welcoming, focusing entirely on the incredible food. It's a fantastic spot for a casual lunch or dinner, and you'll often see families enjoying meals together. Pricing is very budget-friendly, expect to spend around $15-25 per person, making it an excellent choice for a delicious and affordable meal. Locals know this is the go-to place for genuine South Indian vegetarian fare, and you'll love the fresh, vibrant flavors.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Annapoorna is highly regarded for its authentic and delicious South Indian vegetarian cuisine, with its extensive selection of dosas and thalis frequently receiving praise. With a solid 4.3-star reputation, diners consistently highlight the fresh flavors and the excellent value, though some note the simple, no-frills ambiance.

📍 Address: 1361 S Mary Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087

Rooh

For a truly elevated and modern Indian dining experience in San Francisco, Rooh is an absolute must-visit. This isn't your grandmother's Indian restaurant; it's a sleek, stylish spot that blends traditional Indian flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The ambiance is chic and sophisticated, perfect for a special night out or impressing a date. You absolutely *must* try their tasting menu if you want to experience the full breadth of their creativity – it's a culinary journey! Their cocktails are also incredibly inventive and pair beautifully with the food.

The dishes at Rooh are not only delicious but also beautifully plated, making for a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Expect innovative takes on classic Indian ingredients, like their Butter Chicken with black garlic or the Lamb Seekh Kebab with truffle oil. Pricing is on the higher end, expect to spend around $60-100+ per person, but it's an experience that justifies the cost. Locals know this is where you go for a truly memorable, high-end Indian meal that pushes boundaries.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Rooh is consistently lauded for its innovative and modern take on Indian cuisine, with diners frequently praising its creative tasting menus and sophisticated ambiance. With a strong 4.4-star reputation, reviewers often highlight the beautifully plated dishes and the inventive cocktail program, though it's noted as a higher-end dining experience.

📍 Address: 333 Brannan St Suite 150, San Francisco, CA 94107

Badmaash

If you're in Los Angeles and looking for an Indian restaurant with serious personality and incredible food, Badmaash is your spot. This place is vibrant, fun, and serves up Indian-American comfort food with a playful twist. It's the kind of place where the music is good, the energy is high, and the food is unforgettable. You absolutely *must* try their famous Chicken Tikka Poutine – it’s a glorious fusion dish that sounds wild but tastes absolutely divine. Their classic Butter Chicken and Saag Paneer are also top-notch, but don't be afraid to venture into their more unique offerings.

The atmosphere at Badmaash is lively and modern, with colorful decor and a cool, urban vibe. It’s perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a fun night out. Pricing is moderate, expect to spend around $25-45 per person, offering great value for the quality and the unique experience. Locals know this is the place to go for Indian food that's both authentic and exciting, with a dash of LA flair.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Badmaash is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and playful, yet authentic, Indian-American fusion cuisine, with the Chicken Tikka Poutine often cited as a must-try. With an excellent 4.5-star reputation, diners consistently praise the flavorful dishes and the lively, cool vibe, though it can get busy, especially on weekends.

📍 Address: 108 W 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Mayura Indian Restaurant

For a truly authentic South Indian experience in Los Angeles, particularly focusing on Keralite cuisine, Mayura Indian Restaurant in Culver City is a treasure. This unassuming spot is where locals go for the real deal, far from the typical North Indian fare. The flavors here are distinct, fresh, and incredibly comforting. You absolutely *must* try their Kerala Fish Curry, which is subtly spiced and incredibly flavorful, or their traditional Sadya Thali on weekends, offering a grand feast served on a banana leaf. Their dosas are also fantastic and perfectly crisp.

The atmosphere at Mayura is simple and family-friendly, focusing entirely on the incredible food. It’s a fantastic spot for a casual, authentic meal where you can truly taste the regional specialties. Pricing is very reasonable, expect to spend around $20-35 per person, making it an excellent choice for a delicious and affordable culinary journey. Locals know this is the place for genuine South Indian flavors, and you'll love discovering new dishes here.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Mayura Indian Restaurant is highly praised for its authentic South Indian and Keralite cuisine, with diners often highlighting the flavorful curries and traditional thalis. With a strong 4.3-star reputation, reviewers consistently commend the genuine flavors and the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere, though some note the simple decor.

📍 Address: 10406 Venice Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

Star India Restaurant

When you're in San Diego and craving classic, comforting North Indian cuisine, Star India Restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter is a reliable and delicious choice. This place has been a local favorite for years, known for its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for a satisfying dinner after exploring downtown or before catching a show. You absolutely *must* try their rich and creamy Chicken Tikka Masala, or their flavorful Lamb Vindaloo if you like a bit of heat. Their garlic naan is also perfectly fluffy and addictive.

The atmosphere is traditional and cozy, with warm lighting and comfortable seating, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal. The service is always friendly and attentive. Pricing is moderate, expect to spend around $25-40 per person, offering good value for the generous portions and quality of food. Locals know this is a solid choice for classic Indian dishes done right, and you'll appreciate the comforting flavors and reliable experience.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Star India Restaurant is well-regarded for its traditional North Indian cuisine, with diners frequently praising the flavorful curries like Chicken Tikka Masala and the excellent naan. With a solid 4.0-star reputation, reviewers often highlight the friendly service and the convenient Gaslamp Quarter location, though some mention it can get busy during peak hours.

📍 Address: 423 F St, San Diego, CA 92101

Curry Up Now

If you're looking for a fun, casual, and incredibly creative take on Indian street food, Curry Up Now in San Francisco's Mission District is an absolute blast. What started as a beloved food truck has blossomed into a brick-and-mortar sensation, serving up Indian-inspired dishes with a modern, fusion twist. It's the perfect spot for a quick, flavorful bite that's anything but ordinary. You absolutely *must* try their famous Sexy Fries (crispy sweet potato fries topped with tikka masala and various sauces) or their Hella Vegan Burrito – they're wildly popular for a reason!

The atmosphere is lively and laid-back, with a cool, urban vibe that perfectly matches the innovative menu. It’s a counter-service spot, but the food comes out quickly, making it ideal for a casual lunch or a quick dinner. Pricing is very reasonable, expect to spend around $15-25 per person, offering fantastic value for the unique and delicious food. Locals know this is the go-to for a fresh, exciting, and accessible take on Indian flavors, and you'll love the playful menu and energetic environment.

What Food Critics Say

Here's what fellow food lovers can't stop raving about – Curry Up Now is widely celebrated for its innovative Indian street food fusion, with the Sexy Fries and various burritos often cited as fan favorites. With a strong 4.3-star reputation, diners consistently praise the creative menu and the casual, lively atmosphere, though some note that it can get quite busy during peak times.

📍 Address: 659 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110