America's Finest Indian Cuisine: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to Indian cuisine, the United States has a plethora of options. From traditional recipes to modern takes on classic dishes, there are plenty of restaurants that serve up delicious Indian food. But which one is the best? Chai Pani, located in North Carolina, is America's number one Indian restaurant. The Asheville eatery was recently named the most outstanding restaurant in the United States at the James Beard Foundation Awards in Chicago.

Rasika is another excellent choice for those who enjoy sophisticated dining. With two locations in Washington D. C., Rasika offers a unique menu of modern Indian cuisine. The restaurant has even been visited by former President Barack Obama! Chef Vikram Sunderam has won a James Beard Award for his inventive dishes, such as lobster pulao and apple jalebi fritters.

Vik's Chaat Corner has been a favorite spot in Berkeley, California since 1989. The Mumbai-born founder, Amod Chopra, opened a traditional Indian snack market in the warehouse district and it has been a hit ever since. Winner of the Michelin Bib Gourmand Award for eight consecutive years, Cumin is a modern Nepalese and Indian bistro located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago. The menu is divided into sections of Indian and Nepalese food, so you can mix and match to try traditional dishes from both countries. Saravanaa Bhavan is one of the largest Indian restaurant chains in the world, with locations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Singapore, India and Australia.

Founded by P. Rajagopal in 1981, Saravanaa Bhavan offers the best of modern Indian cuisine. Tabla gives a modern touch to the classic and traditional Indian restaurant. Choose from a variety of small and large plates, as well as curries, vegetarian dishes, roti and side dishes.

The Tabla bar also offers signature cocktails with an Indian twist, such as the Chai Old Fashion. Punjabi Dhaba is a roadside truck drivers' food stall that serves up no-frills Punjabi food. This modest cult bastion has attracted university students and professors, hipsters and Indian families alike for more than 18 years. All the food served here is served in prodigious portions - from tandoori chicken to shahi paneer. Choolaah is one of the few Indian food chains on this list. Offering family meals and Indian buffets that include everything from high-quality protein to a variety of masala, Choolah uses only top quality ingredients tracked “from farm to table” and only humanely managed, family-raised and sustainably raised animals. Lehja is another great option for those looking for an upscale dining experience.

The restaurant emphasizes style and offers a cozy space to enjoy traditional and modern Indian dishes in a relaxing decor inspired by California from the 70s. Chef Sandeep “Sunny Baweja” is a semifinalist of the James Beard Award and serves up creative dishes such as blue crabs from Chesapeake Bay seasoned with turmeric, ginger and pink pepper from Tellicherry served with asparagus and scallions or tender Pondicherry shredded duck seasoned with cumin, fenugreek, garlic, onion and curry leaves. No matter what type of Indian cuisine you're looking for - traditional or modern - there's something for everyone at these top restaurants across America. From Chai Pani to Lehja, these eateries offer delicious dishes that will satisfy any craving. If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience that will tantalize your taste buds with authentic flavors from India, then look no further than these top restaurants across America. From Chai Pani to Lehja, these eateries offer delicious dishes that will satisfy any craving.

Cassie Vandivort
Cassie Vandivort

Typical music practitioner. Unapologetic web junkie. Amateur music maven. Bacon maven. Total tv fanatic.