The Best Indian Food In Upper East Side: A Food Lover’s Guide

Indian food has always been a top choice for foodies around the world. The exotic spices, herbs, and flavors make it a unique and unforgettable culinary experience. For those living in the Upper East Side, there’s no need to travel far and wide to savor the best Indian food in town. From the rich and creamy butter chicken to the spicy and tangy biryani, the Upper East Side has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best Indian food in the Upper East Side.

Why Indian Food?

Indian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors that are achieved by using a wide range of spices and herbs. It is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice for food lovers worldwide. Indian food is also known for its vibrant colors, textures, and aroma, which add to the dining experience.

Authentic Indian Cuisine in the Upper East Side

The Upper East Side has a rich culinary scene, and Indian cuisine is a significant part of it. With numerous restaurants and eateries offering Indian food, it can be challenging to find the best one. However, if you’re looking for authentic Indian cuisine, there are a few places that stand out from the rest.

1. Darbar

Darbar is a popular restaurant that serves authentic Indian cuisine in the Upper East Side. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate ambiance, making it an ideal place for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Darbar’s menu features a wide range of Indian dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Their butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, and chicken tikka masala are some of the must-try dishes.

2. The MasalaWala

The MasalaWala is another restaurant in the Upper East Side that serves authentic Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a modern and chic ambiance, making it an ideal place for a casual dinner with friends. The MasalaWala’s menu features a fusion of Indian and Pakistani dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Their chicken kebab, aloo gobi, and lamb rogan josh are some of the popular dishes.

3. Chote Nawab

Chote Nawab is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Indian cuisine in the Upper East Side. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate ambiance, making it an excellent place for a romantic dinner. Chote Nawab’s menu features a wide range of Indian dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Their chicken tikka, lamb chops, and biryani are some of the popular dishes.

FAQs About Indian Food in the Upper East Side

What is the best time to visit Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side?

The best time to visit Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side is during the weekdays. The restaurants are less crowded, and you can enjoy your meal in peace.

What is the most popular Indian dish in the Upper East Side?

The most popular Indian dish in the Upper East Side is butter chicken. It is a creamy and rich dish that is served with naan or rice.

What vegetarian options are available at Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side?

Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side offer a wide range of vegetarian options, including chana masala, palak paneer, and aloo gobi.

Are Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side expensive?

Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side can be expensive, but there are also budget-friendly options available. It all depends on the restaurant and the dishes you order.

What should I order if I’m new to Indian cuisine?

If you’re new to Indian cuisine, you should try butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, or lamb vindaloo. These dishes are not too spicy and are perfect for beginners.

What drink pairs well with Indian food?

Lassi, a yogurt-based drink, is a popular beverage that pairs well with Indian food. It is a sweet and refreshing drink that helps to cool down the spices.

Do Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side offer delivery and takeout?

Yes, most Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side offer delivery and takeout services. You can order your favorite dishes online and have them delivered to your doorstep.

What is the difference between biryani and pulao?

Biryani is a mixed rice dish that is flavored with spices and meat or vegetables. Pulao, on the other hand, is a rice dish that is cooked with meat or vegetables and flavored with spices. Biryani is a more complex and flavorful dish than pulao.

What is the best dessert to try at Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side?

Gulab jamun is a popular dessert that is served at Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side. It is a sweet and sticky dessert made from milk solids and soaked in syrup.

What is the spiciest Indian dish?

Vindaloo is the spiciest Indian dish. It is a curry that originated in Goa and is made with pork, vinegar, and a lot of spices.

What is the difference between naan and roti?

Naan is a leavened bread that is made with flour, yeast, and milk. Roti, on the other hand, is an unleavened bread that is made with flour and water. Naan is softer and fluffier than roti.

What is the best appetizer to try at Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side?

Samosas are a popular appetizer that is served at Indian restaurants in the Upper East Side. They are crispy pastry triangles filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and onions.

What is the most popular Indian drink?

Chai, a spiced tea, is a popular Indian drink. It is made by simmering black tea with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.

What is the difference between tandoori chicken and chicken tikka?

Tandoori chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices and cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. Chicken tikka, on the other hand, is marinated in yogurt and spices and grilled on skewers. Tandoori chicken is smokier and spicier than chicken tikka.

What is the most popular Indian bread?

Naan is the most popular Indian bread. It is a leavened bread that is made with flour, yeast, and milk.

What is the difference between paneer and tofu?

Paneer is a type of cheese that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. Tofu is a soy-based product that is commonly used in Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Paneer is firmer and has a creamier texture than tofu.

Conclusion

The Upper East Side is a food lover’s haven, and Indian cuisine is a significant part of its culinary landscape. Whether you’re a spice lover or a fan of creamy curries, there’s something for everyone. From the cozy and intimate ambiance of Darbar to the modern and chic vibe of The MasalaWala, there’s a restaurant for every occasion. So, the next time you’re craving some delicious Indian food, head to the Upper East Side and indulge in a culinary journey like no other.

Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency or organization.