Explore the culinary scene of India - from local favorites to fine dining.
India is a vast and diverse South Asian nation offering ancient temples, vibrant cities, pristine beaches, and the majestic Himalayas. From the iconic Taj Mahal to spiritual Varanasi and tropical Kerala backwaters, India delivers unforgettable experiences across its 28 states and 8 union territories.
Indian cuisine is one of the world's most diverse, varying dramatically by region — from the rich meat-based Mughlai dishes of the north to the coconut-infused seafood curries of the south, the fermented rice preparations of the northeast, and the vegetarian-dominated Gujarati and Rajasthani thalis. Spices are the cornerstone of Indian cooking, with each region having its own signature spice palette. Vegetarian cuisine is especially developed in India, reflecting the prevalence of Hinduism and Jainism.
These iconic dishes define the culinary identity of India.
Delhi's most famous culinary export — tender tandoor-cooked chicken in a rich tomato-cream-butter sauce. Invented at Moti Mahal restaurant in Old Delhi in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral.
South India's most iconic dish — a crispy fermented rice and lentil crepe filled with spiced potato, served with coconut chutney and sambar. Breakfast staple from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Fragrant slow-cooked rice layered with marinated meat, saffron, fried onions, and whole spices in the dum (sealed pot) method. The definitive biryani that has spawned countless regional variations.
India's most beloved street food — hollow crispy semolina spheres filled with spiced potato and chickpeas, dunked in tangy tamarind and mint water. Each region has its own version.
Black lentils slow-cooked overnight with cream and butter until they develop an impossibly rich, velvety texture. The definitive Punjabi restaurant dish eaten with tandoor roti.
A delicate Kerala Christian curry of white fish simmered in fresh coconut milk with green chillies, ginger, and turmeric. Lighter than most Indian curries, showcasing Kerala's coconut-forward cooking style.
100+ restaurants, local recipes, and dining recommendations for India.
Our handpicked recommendations for the best dining experiences.
Legendary restaurant at ITC Maurya serving rustic North-West Frontier cuisine. Famous for its dal bukhara and tandoori dishes, frequented by world leaders and celebrities since 1978.
Historic restaurant established in 1913 near Jama Masjid, famous for its mutton dishes and authentic Mughlai flavors. A must-visit for traditional Delhi cuisine.
Popular chain serving vegetarian Indian snacks, sweets, and meals. Great for trying chaat, samosas, and traditional sweets at budget prices.
Narrow lane in Old Delhi famous for paratha shops operating since the 1870s. Try various stuffed parathas from multiple small vendors.
Specialty coffee roaster with cafes serving single-origin Indian coffee. Modern minimalist design with excellent espresso-based drinks.
Award-winning restaurant reinventing Indian cuisine with global ingredients and innovative techniques. Set in a beautiful manor with exceptional presentation and service.
Legendary Bangalore institution serving authentic filter coffee and idlis since 1965. Simple, no-frills setting with exceptional quality at bargain prices.
Sindhi chain restaurant famous for chaat, chaats, and vegetarian dishes. Casual family-friendly atmosphere with quick service.
Find restaurants that match your taste preferences.
The best local flavors at affordable prices.
Mumbai's iconic working-class street food — a spiced potato fritter in a bread roll with green and tamarind chutneys. So deeply embedded in Mumbai culture it is called the city's burger.
A hearty North Indian breakfast of spiced chickpea curry served with giant deep-fried puffed bread. The definitive Delhi Sunday breakfast, indulgent and deeply satisfying.
Kolkata's signature street food — a paratha wrap filled with egg, chicken or mutton kebab, onion, and chutney. Invented at Nizam's Restaurant in 1932, now found across India.
Flaky stuffed flatbread from Amritsar baked in a tandoor and served with chole, pickle, and onions. The version at Kesar Da Dhaba draws pilgrims from across India.
Mumbai's beloved beach snack — puffed rice tossed with chopped onion, tomato, tamarind chutney, sev, and coriander. Best eaten fresh from the vendor's hands on Chowpatty Beach.
Asia's largest wholesale spice market in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk sells every spice, dried fruit, nut, and herb imaginable at wholesale prices. The sensory overload of colors and aromas is extraordinary.
South Delhi's international food market stocks imported foods, specialty ingredients, and fresh seafood alongside South Indian groceries. Popular with Delhi's expat community and discerning home cooks.
Mumbai's Victorian-era food market under a beautiful Gothic building stocks fresh fruit, imported foods, poultry, and spices at competitive prices in a magnificent heritage building.
India's largest wholesale flower market at the foot of Howrah Bridge operates from 4 AM with thousands of garlands and loose flowers for temples and weddings. Spectacular at dawn.
Navigate the local food scene like a pro.
In North India lunch is the main meal (12-3 PM); in South India breakfast is the most important meal featuring dosas, idli, and vada
Vegetarian food is everywhere and of exceptional quality — most restaurants have extensive veg menus even in non-vegetarian establishments
Always order bottled mineral water and check the seal is intact; avoid ice unless at a reputable hotel
In South Indian restaurants, fold the banana leaf down after eating to indicate you are finished; upward fold means you want more
Tipping is 10% at restaurants where service charge is not already included; check your bill carefully as 12.5% service charge is sometimes added
Eating with the right hand is traditional — bread and rice mixed with curry is how most Indians eat. Cutlery is always available on request.
What to expect at different price points.
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