Best Indian Food in Times Square, NYC: A Culinary Guide
Times Square is the bustling heart of New York City, known for its neon lights, theaters, and endless dining options. Amid the countless restaurants representing cuisines from around the world, Indian food holds a special place for its rich, aromatic spices and diverse flavors. If you’re craving a taste of India near Times Square, here are the top restaurants serving the best Indian food Times square NYC in the area.
Location: 182 Lexington Avenue (Near Times Square)
Spice Symphony is a standout choice for Indian food near Times Square. Known for its inventive approach to traditional Indian cuisine, the restaurant combines authentic Indian dishes with modern techniques, as well as some Indo-Chinese fusion offerings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala: A creamy, flavorful curry that is one of their most popular dishes.
Tandoori Lamb Chops: Perfectly grilled and seasoned with a blend of Indian spices.
Goan Shrimp Curry: A coastal delicacy with a coconut-based curry, offering a hint of sweetness balanced by subtle spices.
Indo-Chinese Chili Chicken: A spicy and tangy dish that blends Indian flavors with Chinese techniques.
The menu caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers, and the restaurant’s modern, cozy ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal after a day of sightseeing. Spice Symphony has been highly rated on platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews for its consistency in delivering flavorful dishes and excellent service.
2. Utsav Indian Bar and Grill
Location: 1185 Avenue of the Americas, Between 46th & 47th Streets
Located just steps from Times Square, Utsav Indian Bar and Grill offers a more upscale dining experience. With a refined and elegant ambiance, this restaurant is ideal for those looking for a sophisticated meal. Utsav’s menu features dishes from different regions of India, offering diners a culinary journey across the country.
Butter Chicken: A rich, creamy dish with tender chicken in a tomato-based gravy.
Lamb Vindaloo: A fiery dish from Goa, known for its bold flavors and tender meat.
Prawn Malai Curry: A Bengali favorite, with prawns cooked in a mild, coconut milk-based curry.
Vegetarian Thali: A diverse platter featuring various vegetarian specialties, perfect for sampling multiple flavors in one meal.
Utsav is also known for its diverse selection of Indian breads, including naan, paratha, and roti, which pair perfectly with their flavorful curries. With its central location and upscale feel, Utsav is an ideal spot for both tourists and business professionals.
3. Saar Indian Bistro
Location: 241 W 51st Street, Near Times Square
Saar Indian Bistro offers a fine dining experience in a sleek, modern setting. Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Hemant Mathur, Saar brings both authenticity and a creative flair to Indian cuisine. The restaurant emphasizes using the freshest ingredients and combining them with traditional Indian cooking techniques.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paneer Tikka: Grilled cottage cheese marinated in a blend of spices and herbs.
Nizami Chicken Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender chicken, flavored with saffron and spices.
Kerala Fish Curry: A tangy and spicy dish from South India, cooked in coconut milk and tamarind.
Vegetable Samosas: Crisp pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas, served with tangy chutneys.
Saar also offers a well-curated wine list to complement its dishes, making it a great choice for a refined yet flavorful dining experience.
4. Dhaba Indian Cuisine
Location: 108 Lexington Avenue
For those looking for a more casual yet authentic Indian dining experience, Dhaba Indian Cuisine is a top choice. Located a bit farther from Times Square but still easily accessible, Dhaba specializes in North Indian and Punjabi dishes. Its vibrant atmosphere and traditional dishes make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Amritsari Kulcha: A stuffed bread served with chickpeas and spiced yogurt.
Chana Bhatura: A classic Punjabi dish of chickpeas in a spiced tomato gravy served with fried bread.
Rogan Josh: A Kashmiri-style lamb curry with a rich, flavorful sauce.
Aloo Gobhi: A vegetarian dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, spiced with turmeric and cumin.
Dhaba’s portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic, making it a great spot for those seeking hearty Indian fare in a lively, welcoming environment.
5. Benares
Location: 240 W 56th Street
Benares is a contemporary Indian restaurant offering a wide range of dishes from across India, with a particular focus on the flavors of the northern regions. The restaurant’s chic, modern interior makes it a popular spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Murgh Makhani: A creamy, mildly spiced chicken curry that is rich in flavor.
Goat Biryani: Slow-cooked rice and goat meat flavored with saffron, herbs, and spices.
Daal Makhani: A slow-cooked lentil dish, creamy and spiced to perfection.
Palak Paneer: Spinach and paneer cooked with ginger, garlic, and mild spices.
Benares is also known for its tandoori dishes, which are grilled in a traditional clay oven to enhance the flavors and textures. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options, catering to both tourists on the go and those looking for a more leisurely meal.
Whether you’re in the mood for an upscale dining experience or a casual meal, Times Square has a variety of Indian restaurants that offer delicious, authentic flavors. From modern twists on traditional dishes at Spice Symphony to regional specialties at Utsav and Dhaba, these restaurants showcase the diverse and vibrant culinary traditions of India. No matter which restaurant you choose, you’re sure to find a memorable meal that satisfies your craving for Indian cuisine in the heart of New York City.