When it comes to gastronomic adventures, India stands as a treasure trove of flavors, offering a diverse array of regional cuisines that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on the palate. From the aromatic curries of the North to the fiery delights of the South, Indian cuisine is a symphony of spices, textures, and traditions that beckons food enthusiasts from around the world. To help you embark on a culinary journey like no other, we present a carefully curated list of the top 10 Indian restaurants, each with its own unique charm and culinary magic.
1. Indian Accent – New Delhi
Address: The Lodhi, Lodhi Road, New Delhi
Description: Indian Accent is a trailblazer in redefining Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Located in the heart of New Delhi, this restaurant takes traditional recipes and presents them in innovative, visually stunning ways. Led by acclaimed chef Manish Mehrotra, Indian Accent tantalises taste buds with dishes like the famous ‘Blue Cheese Naan’ and ‘Pulled Pork Phulka Tacos.’ The elegant ambiance and impeccable service make it a must-visit for both locals and travellers seeking a modern interpretation of Indian flavours.
Indian Accent
2. Gaggan – Bangkok
Address: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Bangkok, Thailand
Description: While not in India, Gaggan deserves a spot on this list for its profound influence on Indian cuisine. With its innovative take on traditional Indian fare, this avant-garde restaurant pushes the boundaries of cuisine. The ‘Emoji Menu’ and ‘Lick It Up’ dessert tasting menu are examples of Gaggan’s innovative approach, blending molecular gastronomy with traditional Indian ingredients. The restaurant’s artistic presentations and explosive flavours have earned it a place among the world’s best dining establishments.
Gaggan – Bangkok
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3. Bukhara – New Delhi
Address: ITC Maurya, Diplomatic Enclave, Sardar Patel Marg, New Delhi
Description: Bukhara is a legend in its own right, celebrated for its robust North Indian cuisine and traditional methods of cooking. Situated in the luxurious ITC Maurya, the restaurant is renowned for its ‘Dal Bukhara,’ a slow-cooked black lentil dish that has achieved iconic status. The rustic ambiance, complete with clay ovens and wooden interiors, transports diners to a bygone era of princely feasts, making it an essential stop for those seeking an authentic taste of North India.
Bukhara – New Delhi
4. Karavalli – Bangalore
Address: The Gateway Hotel, Residency Road, Bangalore
Description: Karavalli pays homage to the culinary heritage of South India, specializing in the rich flavors of coastal Karnataka and Kerala. With its rustic decor and warm ambiance, the restaurant sets the stage for an immersive dining experience. From ‘Meen Moilee’ to ‘Mutton Sukka,’ Karavalli captures the essence of coastal living through its meticulously prepared seafood dishes and spice-laden curries. The diverse menu is a testament to the region’s culinary diversity and the devotion to preserving its authenticity.
4. Karavalli – Bangalore
5. Dum Pukht, Mumbai
Address: ITC Maratha, Sahar Road, Andheri East, Mumbai
Description: Dum Pukht is synonymous with the art of slow-cooking, a technique that originated in the royal kitchens of India. This restaurant, located in the opulent ITC Maratha, takes guests on a regal journey with dishes like ‘Galouti Kebab’ and ‘Nihari.’ The flavours are a tribute to the heritage of Awadhi cuisine, prepared using the ‘dum’ method to ensure that the spices infuse the meat with exquisite taste. The elegant setting and traditional charm make Dum Pukht a beacon of culinary excellence.
Dum Pukht, Mumbai
6. Dakshin – Chennai
Address: Crowne Plaza Adyar Park, TTK Road, Alwarpet, Chennai
Description: Dakshin is a haven for South Indian cuisine enthusiasts, offering a sensory voyage through the four southern states. The restaurant’s lavish thali presentations allow diners to savour an array of flavours, from ‘Hyderabadi Biryani’ to ‘Karimeen Pollichathu’ from Kerala. The expansive menu showcases the rich culinary diversity of the region, with each dish prepared using traditional techniques and spices that define South Indian gastronomy.
Dakshin – Chennai
7. Varq, New Delhi
Address: The Taj Mahal Hotel, Mansingh Road, New Delhi
Description: Varq is a culinary masterpiece that blends modernity with traditional Indian flavours. Located within The Taj Mahal Hotel, the restaurant is known for its meticulous attention to detail and artistic presentation. Chef Hemant Oberoi crafts dishes that celebrate the essence of Indian cuisine while adding contemporary twists. The ‘Varqui Crab’ and ‘Tandoori Foie Gras’ are testaments to the restaurant’s commitment to innovation without compromising on authenticity.
Varq, New Delhi
8. Peshawri to Mumbai
Address: ITC Maratha, Sahar Road, Andheri East, Mumbai
Description: Peshawri is a culinary ode to the flavors of the North-West Frontier, where dishes are prepared in clay tandoors to capture the essence of open-fire cooking. The restaurant, nestled within ITC Maratha, is famed for its ‘Dal Bukhara’ and ‘Sikandari Raan,’ both of which have earned it a dedicated following. The rustic ambiance and communal seating transport diners to the heart of a traditional Indian village, offering a sensory journey through flavours and aromas.
Peshawri to Mumbai
9. Oh! Calcutta – Kolkata
Address: Forum Courtyard, Elgin Road, Kolkata
Description: Oh! Calcutta is a tribute to the culinary heritage of West Bengal, a state known for its rich history and diverse flavors. The restaurant offers a curated selection of Bengali delicacies, including ‘Hilsa Fish Paturi’ and ‘Bhetki Paturi.’ The dishes showcase the delicate balance of sweet and savory that defines Bengali cuisine, inviting diners to explore the nuances of regional flavors while enjoying a contemporary dining environment.
Oh! Calcutta – Kolkata
10. Le Cirque Signature – New Delhi
Address: The Leela Palace, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Description: Le Cirque Signature marries French elegance with Indian ingredients to create an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant, located in The Leela Palace, showcases a fusion of flavours through dishes like ‘Foie Gras Galouti’ and ‘Chicken Tikka on Quinoa.’ The opulent setting and sophisticated ambiance set the stage for a luxurious culinary journey that combines the best of both worlds.
Le Cirque Signature – New Delhi
Embark on a Gastronomic Odyssey
From contemporary interpretations to traditional feasts, India’s top restaurants offer a spectrum of flavors that reflect the country’s culinary heritage. Each restaurant on this list is a testament to the artistry, innovation, and devotion that shape Indian cuisine. Whether you’re a connoisseur seeking avant-garde dishes or a traveler eager to explore authentic regional flavors, these restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience that transcends borders and satisfies the soul.
