Chicago may not be as famous for its Indian food as it is for its pizza, yet delicious Indian eateries can be found all over the city. Many of them are in what is known as Little India, a stretch along Devon Avenue. However, there are many other great places to choose from beyond that area.
So, here are 5 of the best South Asian restaurants in Chicago. Indulge in chipotle-style eateries or authentic and culturally inspired restaurants spread across the city.
Sabri Nihari
2502 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
This Little India establishment offers a wide range of classic Indian and Pakistani dishes – from karahi gosht (a mix of wok-cooked goat meat and vegetables) to haleem (a lentil stew with slow-cooked shredded beef). What makes this Indian and Pakistani restaurant in Chicago even more appealing is its reasonable prices and cozy atmosphere.
View menu here.
Naansense
*LOCATION PENDING*
Build your own bowl at Naansense, a Chipotle-style restaurant known for its Indian-inspired street food that’s freshly made on-site every day. Select a base, protein, veggies and sauce, and you’re good to go. Naansense has two previous Chicago locations – one on Wells St. and one on Clinton St. – and they have a special street food menu that’s only available at certain times, featuring naan pizza and samosa chaat. Stay tuned on their social media, because the location is changing!
Tandoor Char House
2652 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614
Influenced by their rich cultural heritage and driven by their collective passion for the culinary arts, brothers Fahim and Faraz Sardharia present to you Tandoor Char House. The dishes at this restaurant in Chicago are made with passion, from the signature mix grill platter to house specialty beef nahari (cuts of sirloin are simmered in sauce and topped with jalapeños and ginger). The award-winning lamb tikka masala tacos are amazing too, and vegetarians should try the palak paneer (cheese and spinach stewed in creamy tomato sauce).
View menu here.
Superkhana
3059 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Superkhana in Logan Square isn’t just about the food, but the experience, too. The friendly staff at this restaurant will help you choose the best range of dishes, whether collecting from the walk-up-window or dining in the chic, buzzing restaurant. There are the usual goodies plus more adventurous dishes like butter chicken calzone and coconut brisket. Share and try it all with a group, finishing with a cocktail or local cider.
View menu here.
Ghareeb Nawaz
2032 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
This is probably one of the best, and also most famous South Asian restaurants in Chicago. Since 1993, Ghareeb Nawaz has served everything from breakfast specials like aloo paratha (potato curry with bread) to chili chicken biryani with yogurt and fragrant rice. There are 23 types of paratha sandwiches, while their veggie thali includes four types of curry to try out with chapati.
View menu here.
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