best indian food in chicago scene is undergoing a remarkable transformation, blending centuries-old traditions with bold contemporary creativity. From the aromatic spice lanes of Devon Avenue to sleek West Loop eateries, here’s your insider’s guide to navigating the city’s most exciting Indian flavors.
The New Wave of Indian Dining
- Masala (River North)
Chicago’s hottest new Indian steakhouse redefines luxury dining with:
- 45-day dry-aged lamb chops with kachumber relish
- Foie gras-stuffed kulcha bread
- Tableside gin tonic carts with Indian botanicals
Pro Tip: Their Sunday “Curry & Champagne” brunch features unlimited pours of Veuve Clicquot
- Turmeric (Fulton Market)
A vegetable-forward concept from a former Alinea chef showcasing:
- Heirloom tomato chaat with smoked paneer
- Deconstructed pani puri tasting flight
- 72-hour fermented dosa with truffle ghee
Regional Specialists Worth the Journey
- Koliwada (West Town)
Chicago’s only dedicated seafood shack specializing in Mumbai’s coastal cuisine:
- Bombil fry (crispy Bombay duck fish)
- Kolambi rice (prawn pulao cooked in coconut milk)
- Weekend-only Goan fish curry thali
- Dum Pukht (Lincoln Park)
Reviving the lost art of Awadhi slow cooking:
- 12-hour dum biryani served in sealed dough
- Kakori kebabs (legendary silk-textured lamb skewers)
- Shahi tukda bread pudding with edible gold
The Next Generation of Quick Service
- Frankie’s Fast (Wicker Park)
Indian-Italian fusion that actually works:
- Vada pav arancini
- Tandoori chicken parm sandwich
- Masala chai tiramisu
- Dabbawala (The Loop)
Tech-powered lunch service featuring:
- AI-curated thali combinations
- 90-second curry pod heating
- Biometric payment via palm scanning
Cocktail Culture Meets Indian Flavors
- The Darjeeling Limited (Logan Square)
Chicago’s first Indian speakeasy offering:
- Chai-infused old fashioneds
- Paan-flavored martinis
- Zero-proof lassis with CBD
The Future of Indian Dining
- Tasting India (West Loop)
A 22-course progressive tasting menu that:
- Traces the spice route through 8 Indian states
- Pairs each course with indigenous spirits
- Uses VR headsets to transport diners to each region
Insider Tips for 2024:
- Reservations: Book “Tasting India” 3 months in advance
- Secret Menus: Ask for the “Grandma’s Recipes” at Dum Pukht
- Best Value: Koliwada’s $19 Tuesday thali special
- Most Instagrammable: Turmeric’s edible flower wall
best indian restaurants in chicago scene is no longer just about butter chicken and naan (though you’ll find exceptional versions of those too). Today’s chefs are digging deeper into regional traditions while fearlessly innovating, creating what may be America’s most exciting Indian dining destination outside New York.
From 8streetfoodplattersto300 tasting menus, this culinary revolution offers something for every palate and budget. The only question is – where will your Indian food journey begin tonight?
