Top 14 Indian restaurants in East Village NYC
In the heart of New York City's East Village, Indian cuisine aficionados will find a delightful array of Indian restaurants to explore. From the authentic flavors of traditional dishes to modern twists on classic recipes, Indian restaurants in East Village NYC offer a diverse and exciting dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for spicy curries, creamy kormas, or fluffy naan bread, these culinary gems will not disappoint. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and rich aromas of Indian restaurants in East Village NYC for a memorable meal.
1. Brick Lane Curry House in East Village
Home of the infamous Phaal, the spiciest curry.

The business being reviewed has an enjoyable and attractive ambiance that is sure to catch the attention of anyone who walks in. The decor is tastefully done, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy the experience. The layout is spacious, allowing for easy movement and comfortable seating arrangements.
However, the service received at this business is a bit of a mixed bag. While some customers have reported receiving excellent service, with staff being courteous and attentive, others have expressed disappointment with the level of service provided. Some customers have reported feeling ignored or neglected, while others have noted long wait times and slow response times. Despite these occasional lapses in service, the business still manages to create a positive overall experience for many of its customers.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
2. Malai Marke
Experience the true taste of India in NYC.

Malai Marke, an Indian restaurant located on 6th Street, offers an exceptional dining experience with a wide range of delicious options. The lamb dishes are particularly noteworthy, but vegetarians and vegans will also find a satisfying variety of dishes to choose from.
One of the standout dishes is the dahl makhani, which is possibly the best version of this dish available. The rich, creamy texture and perfectly spiced taste make for an unforgettable meal. The tangy tomato soup and Tandoori roti are also highly recommended, providing a mouthwatering complement to the dahl makhani. Overall, Malai Marke is a must-visit destination for any Indian food lover.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
3. Panna II Garden Indian Restaurant
Eclectic decor with year-round Christmas lights

Panna II offers a unique and visually striking dining experience, with its interior adorned with an abundance of vibrant string lights all year round. The ambiance created is perfect for a casual group gathering, and it also offers the convenience of being a bring-your-own-bottle establishment.
Unfortunately, the food offerings do not match up to the enchanting decor. A meal at Panna II may result in some disappointments for the food enthusiasts. For instance, a simple Chicken Tikka Masala may lack the depth of flavor, and a Chicken Tandoori may arrive overcooked and dry. Nevertheless, the overall experience is quite memorable, with its cozy and charmingly cluttered setting, adding to the fun and laid-back atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
4. MILON in East Village
Experience Indian cuisine in a vibrant, festive setting.

Milon, a restaurant in New York, offers a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for diners. The food is delicious and well-priced, making it a great value for customers. One standout feature of Milon is their bring-your-own-bottle policy, which can help guests save on the cost of beverages.
Milon is also a great option for those with dietary restrictions, as they have a wide variety of vegetarian dishes to choose from. The restaurant's commitment to accommodating different dietary needs is sure to be appreciated by many customers. Overall, Milon is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun and delicious dining experience in New York.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
5. Desi Galli
Authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist.

The restaurant offers excellent value for its customers, providing a generous quantity of delicious and high-quality food. It is a dining establishment that should not be missed, whether you choose to dine in or take out.
The food served at this establishment is not only tasty and fresh but also creatively prepared. Popular dishes such as the Kathi Roll and Masala Fries have garnered much praise from customers for their quality and variety. Overall, the dining experience at this restaurant is a positive and enjoyable one.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
6. Raj Mahal
Authentic Indian flavors in the heart of NYC.

This establishment is known for its warm and welcoming staff, who have been providing excellent service for years. The food served is consistently delicious and satisfying. The samosas are a standout, always fresh and crispy with a flavorful filling. The butter chicken is another must-try, with its rich and creamy sauce that is both decadent and comforting.
One of the highlights of dining at this restaurant is the free dessert given after every meal. It is a small but thoughtful gesture that adds to the overall positive experience. This place is highly recommended by many, including self-proclaimed Indian food experts. It stands out among the other Indian restaurants in the area due to its exceptional service, talented live musicians, and the added bonus of complimentary Indian dessert.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
- Social Gatherings
7. Baar Baar
A contemporary twist on traditional Indian flavors.

The newly opened restaurant, taking over the space of L'apicio, is the latest addition to the growing number of exceptional Indian establishments in New York City. The extensive menu offers a range of classic and innovative dishes, with the Tuna Bhel and Potato Tikki being standout options. The restaurant pays attention to presentation, with each dish artfully plated and perfect for social media sharing.
The restaurant serves pretty decent food with tasty dishes, although some may find they need a bit more seasoning with added salt or soy sauce to suit their palate. The chicken dumplings are one of the highlights, with a filling and pan-sear that more than compensate for the thicker-than-usual wrappers. Overall, the new Indian restaurant provides a solid dining experience for those looking to explore the flavors of this diverse cuisine.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Indian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
8. Dhamaka
Unapologetic Indian cuisine with explosive flavors.

The Indian restaurant located in Essex Market offers a distinctive and memorable dining experience, characterized by bold spices, intense heat, and creatively prepared dishes that showcase less commonly featured ingredients. A true standout in a city filled with diverse culinary options, this establishment entices food enthusiasts seeking a flavorful and adventurous escape.
Highlighted among New York City's premier eateries, this establishment does not disappoint with its wholesome, albeit not inexpensive, Indian cuisine. While budget-conscious diners should be prepared for a slightly higher cost, the quality of food and experience ultimately prove to be a worthy investment. Make sure to save room for the memorable and delectable dessert options, which are sure to leave diners with a satisfying and lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
9. Semma
Authentic South Indian flavors in a modern setting.

Semma is a highly-regarded Indian restaurant, known for its savory and aromatic dishes. The menu features popular options such as Lamb Curry, Biryani, Fish, and Gun Powder Dosa. The restaurant's service stands out, offering a welcoming and patient waitstaff.
A week prior to a New York trip, a reservation was made at Semma. Upon arrival, the restaurant was filled with guests, creating a slightly cramped seating arrangement for a Michelin-starred establishment. However, once the dining experience began, everything improved significantly. The service was commendable, and the drinks were enjoyable. The Dosa, a childhood favorite, was a particular standout, leading to a second order.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
- Vegan Options
10. Veeray da Dhaba in East Village
Experience the taste of Punjab in NYC.

Veeray Da Dhaba's tiffin lunch specials offer an excellent value, with a selection of five dishes at a reasonable price. For either $16 or $18, depending on the choice of lamb or chicken entree, patrons will receive a satisfying and delicious meal. The combination includes a daily changing entree, vegetable dish, flavorful dal, fragrant basmati rice, and warm naan.
The affordability of Veeray Da Dhaba's tiffin lunch specials is a standout feature. The cost matches the quality and quantity of food provided, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious individuals or those simply seeking a tasty and filling lunch. The diverse offerings ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
11. Taj Restaurant
Experience India with every bite and beat

The vindaloo chicken at this establishment is truly exceptional. The dish offers a perfect blend of spices, with just the right amount of heat to excite the taste buds. The chicken is always cooked to perfection, tender and juicy with each bite. The garlic naan is also a standout menu item, with a perfect level of seasoning and a crispy yet chewy texture that complements the vindaloo chicken wonderfully.
This restaurant provides excellent value for money, with generous portion sizes and affordable prices. The addition of live music adds to the overall experience, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for diners. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious meal, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone craving authentic and flavorful Indian cuisine.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Red Onion

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. Apna Masala
Experience the true taste of India in NYC

A group of friends and I visited this Indian restaurant for dinner and were impressed with the quality of food and excellent service. However, we were taken aback when we had to request poppadums, as we felt it should be a given in an Indian establishment. Despite this, we had a wonderful time and were pleasantly surprised by the affordable bill. We are eager to return for another memorable dining experience.
During a recent lunch outing, I stumbled upon this delightful Indian restaurant, a rarity on a street that has lost most of its classic Indian establishments. The ambiance is inviting, with a warm and charming atmosphere, and the staff are friendly and attentive. The chicken tikka was cooked to perfection, and the appetizers and bread were equally delicious. Overall, it was a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
14. Bombay Masala

TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats