Chicago is a city that takes pride in its diverse and dynamic food scene, and Indian cuisine holds a special place in it. From the spice-laden streets of Devon Avenue to chic downtown eateries offering modern Indian fusion, Chicago is a paradise for lovers of authentic and innovative Indian food. Whether you're seeking traditional curries or creative interpretations of classic dishes, the Windy City offers some of the best indian restaurants in chicago.
Devon Avenue – Chicago’s Little India
When it comes to traditional Indian food, Devon Avenue is the heart and soul of the Indian culinary experience in Chicago. This vibrant corridor is lined with authentic eateries, grocery stores, and sweet shops offering flavors from all across India.
Udupi Palace: A South Indian vegetarian gem known for its crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, and spicy sambar. Ideal for a casual and budget-friendly meal.
Tiffin: A long-standing favorite for North Indian cuisine, Tiffin offers a rich selection of curries, biryanis, and an excellent lunch buffet.
Ghareeb Nawaz: Popular for its generous portions and affordable prices, this spot is perfect for flavorful Pakistani and Indian-style comfort food like chicken biryani and beef keema.
Downtown and Upscale Indian Dining
For a modern twist, Chicago offers a growing number of upscale Indian restaurants that fuse traditional flavors with contemporary techniques and presentation.
Indienne (River North): A Michelin-starred gem that elevates Indian food with French finesse. Their tasting menus are a flavorful journey, blending elegant plating with complex spices.
ROOH (West Loop): A vibrant, high-end restaurant that combines regional Indian cooking with global ingredients. Signature dishes include duck vindaloo, butter chicken, and creative vegetarian plates.
Vermilion (Downtown): Known for its Indian-Latin fusion, Vermilion delivers bold flavors in dishes like tandoori skirt steak and chili garlic naan.
What to Try – Must-Have Indian Dishes
No matter where you go, some Indian dishes are universally loved and worth seeking out:
Butter Chicken – Rich, creamy, and mildly spiced
Paneer Tikka – Grilled Indian cheese marinated in yogurt and spices
Lamb Rogan Josh – A slow-cooked Kashmiri curry packed with flavor
Biryani – Aromatic rice layered with spiced vegetables or meat
Chaat – Savory street food snacks with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes
Garlic Naan – Perfect with any curry or on its own
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring Chicago’s Indian food scene for the first time or a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine, the city offers a rich culinary landscape. From the classics on Devon to upscale fusion in the Loop, Chicago is a true destination for the best indian food in chicago.
