Chicago’s culinary scene is one of the most diverse in the country, offering something for every taste—and Indian cuisine is no exception. Whether you're searching for buttery naan, richly spiced curries, sizzling tandoori platters, or authentic street snacks, the Windy City offers a flavorful journey through India’s many regional cuisines. From upscale establishments to hidden gems, here's your guide to the best indian restaurants in chicago and where to find the most delicious Indian food in the city.

1. Rooh Chicago (West Loop)

Rooh is where modern Indian cuisine meets artistic presentation. With a focus on regional Indian flavors blended with international techniques, Rooh is ideal for fine dining with flair.

Must-try dishes: Pork belly vindaloo, duck Chettinad, kulfi pops

2. Tandoor Char House (Lincoln Park & River North)

Owned by a Pakistani-Indian family, this restaurant blends South Asian spices with a grill-centric menu. Their tandoori meats and creamy curries are packed with bold, smoky flavor.

Top picks: Chicken tikka masala, lamb chops, mango lassi

3. Udupi Palace (Devon Avenue)

If you're in the mood for vegetarian or South Indian food, Udupi Palace is a must. It’s especially known for crispy dosas, idli, and a range of authentic thali platters.

Recommended items: Masala dosa, sambar, coconut chutney

4. India House (River North & Schaumburg)

With multiple locations and an expansive menu, India House is a longstanding favorite. It offers both North and South Indian dishes, along with a daily lunch buffet.

Top dishes: Butter chicken, palak paneer, lamb vindaloo

5. Vermilion (River North)

A fusion-forward experience, Vermilion blends Indian and Latin American flavors in a chic setting. It's not traditional, but it's creative, bold, and worth exploring.

Don’t miss: Lobster Portuguese curry, tamarind ribs, empanadas with Indian spice

6. Nepal House (South Loop)

While technically Nepali-Indian, Nepal House serves a solid selection of Indian staples along with Himalayan dishes. It's a cozy spot for comforting meals and friendly service.

Must-haves: Chicken momo, goat curry, tandoori mixed grill

7. Cumin (Wicker Park)

Cumin serves a unique menu combining Indian and Nepali flavors, with high-quality ingredients and beautiful presentation. The intimate setting makes it great for date nights or small groups.

Highlights: Chicken korma, chili momo, dal makhani

Why Chicago Shines for Indian Cuisine

From Devon Avenue—the city’s Little India—to the trendiest downtown neighborhoods, Chicago offers Indian cuisine at every price point and style. You’ll find food from nearly every region of India, including Punjabi, Gujarati, South Indian, Indo-Chinese, and coastal specialties. Whether you're looking for something familiar or ready to try something new, Chicago’s Indian restaurants deliver flavor, variety, and authenticity.

Final Thoughts

When you’re craving flavorful curries, crispy samosas, or slow-cooked biryani, these top Indian restaurants in Chicago won’t disappoint. Each one brings something unique to the table—from spice-forward street food to elegant culinary innovations. Start your journey with any of the spots above and experience some of the best indian food in chicago has to offer.