10 Indian Restaurants In California Food Lovers Travel For

California has become a culinary destination for Indian food enthusiasts, offering a remarkable range of dining experiences that rival those found anywhere in the world.

From elegant Michelin-recognized establishments to bustling street food spots, the Golden State’s Indian restaurant scene reflects both innovation and authenticity.

Food lovers journey from near and far to taste the creative interpretations and traditional flavors that these restaurants bring to the table.

Whether you crave modern fusion dishes or classic regional specialties, California delivers unforgettable meals that celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage.

The state’s diverse population and adventurous food culture have helped these restaurants thrive, creating spaces where traditional techniques meet California’s fresh, local ingredients.

Each restaurant on this list offers something unique, from sophisticated tasting menus to casual cafeteria-style dining that transports you straight to the streets of Delhi or Mumbai.

Get ready to explore the very best Indian dining destinations that make California a true food lover’s paradise.

1. Ettan

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Ettan has earned its reputation as one of California’s most refined Indian dining destinations.

This Michelin-recognized gem sits at 518 Bryant St in Palo Alto, where innovation meets tradition in the most delicious way.

The restaurant’s elegant interior creates an atmosphere perfect for special occasions or impressing out-of-town guests.

What sets Ettan apart is its commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that transform classic Indian dishes into something extraordinary.

Chef Ettan Bhardwaj brings a sophisticated approach to the cuisine, honoring traditional flavors while embracing California’s farm-to-table philosophy.

The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting to discover.

Diners appreciate the thoughtful presentation and complex flavor profiles that make every course memorable.

The service matches the quality of the food, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through the menu and wine pairings.

Reservations are highly recommended, as this spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors seeking an elevated Indian dining experience.

Ettan proves that Indian cuisine can be both authentic and innovative, making it absolutely worth the journey to Palo Alto.

2. ROOH Palo Alto

ROOH has captured the hearts of California diners with locations in both San Francisco and Palo Alto, bringing progressive Indian cuisine to the Bay Area.

You’ll find the Palo Alto location at 473 University Ave, where the energy is always buzzing with excited diners.

Featured in the Michelin Guide for multiple consecutive years, ROOH has proven its staying power in California’s competitive dining scene.

The restaurant takes a modern approach to Indian cooking, reimagining classic dishes with creative twists that surprise and delight.

Their butter chicken has achieved legendary status among regulars, while the lamb dishes showcase the kitchen’s skill with bold spices and tender preparations.

The lively atmosphere makes ROOH perfect for group celebrations or date nights where you want both great food and vibrant energy.

Contemporary artwork and stylish decor create an Instagram-worthy backdrop that appeals to younger diners without sacrificing substance.

The cocktail program deserves special mention, featuring Indian-inspired drinks that complement the cuisine beautifully.

Service is attentive without being stuffy, striking just the right balance for a memorable evening out.

ROOH demonstrates how Indian cuisine continues to evolve, making it a must-visit destination for anyone serious about exploring California’s best restaurants.

3. Copra

Located at 1700 Fillmore St in San Francisco, Copra transports diners on an enchanting culinary journey to South India.

A Michelin-starred chef helms the kitchen, bringing expertise and authenticity to every dish that leaves the pass.

The restaurant specializes in the authentic flavors of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Sri Lanka, regions often underrepresented in American Indian restaurants.

Copra’s intimate setting makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of the city.

The menu showcases lesser-known South Indian dishes that tell stories of coastal communities and ancient spice routes.

Each plate demonstrates the chef’s deep understanding of regional cooking techniques and flavor combinations that have been perfected over generations.

The use of coconut, curry leaves, and tamarind creates a distinct flavor profile that sets South Indian cuisine apart from its northern counterparts.

Seafood preparations shine here, reflecting the coastal origins of much of the cuisine featured on the menu.

The restaurant’s commitment to authenticity doesn’t mean compromising on presentation, as each dish arrives beautifully plated.

Copra offers California food lovers a rare opportunity to explore South Indian cuisine at its finest, making it absolutely worth crossing the state to experience.

4. CaliChilli

CaliChilli brings a playful yet refined approach to Indian cuisine with locations in Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Find the Long Beach location at 4111 N Viking Way, where creativity knows no bounds in the kitchen.

The restaurant proudly embraces its identity as an unauthentic Indian restaurant, giving the chef freedom to experiment wildly.

This Michelin-starred chef has reimagined classic dishes in ways that surprise even the most seasoned Indian food lovers.

Butter chicken pot pies have become a signature dish, combining comfort food with traditional Indian flavors in an unexpected format.

The lobster preparations showcase the chef’s willingness to use premium ingredients in creative ways that honor both Indian spices and California’s fresh seafood.

Fine-dining vibes permeate the space, making CaliChilli perfect for celebrating special occasions or impressing someone important.

The restaurant’s modern take on Indian cuisine appeals to adventurous eaters who appreciate both innovation and flavor.

Despite the creative liberties, the food remains deeply flavorful and satisfying, never sacrificing taste for novelty.

CaliChilli proves that Indian cuisine can evolve and adapt while still honoring its roots, making it a thrilling dining destination worth traveling across California to experience.

5. Badmaash

At 108 W 2nd St in downtown Los Angeles, Badmaash has created a dining experience that perfectly captures the city’s fusion-loving spirit.

The restaurant’s name translates to troublemaker in Hindi, a fitting description for their rule-breaking approach to Indian cuisine.

Badmaash blends Indian and New American flavors in ways that shouldn’t work but somehow create magic on the plate.

Their tandoori chicken poutine has achieved cult status, becoming the dish that everyone orders and Instagram immediately.

The vibrant atmosphere makes this spot popular with younger crowds looking for both great food and a fun night out.

Colorful murals and contemporary design elements create an environment that feels fresh and exciting rather than traditional.

The menu encourages sharing, making Badmaash ideal for groups who want to sample multiple creative dishes.

Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with staff happy to explain the fusion concepts behind various menu items.

The restaurant stays busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early or making reservations is smart.

Badmaash represents the new generation of Indian restaurants in California, where creativity and tradition dance together on every plate, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves bold flavors and innovative cooking.

6. Anarkali Indian Restaurant

Situated at 7013 Melrose Ave in Los Angeles, Anarkali Indian Restaurant has built a devoted following through consistently exceptional authentic flavors.

Many consider this spot one of Southern California’s absolute best for traditional Indian cuisine done right.

The saag paneer here has reached legendary status among regulars, with its perfect balance of creamy spinach and tender cheese.

Anarkali’s garlic naan deserves special recognition, arriving hot from the tandoor with generous amounts of fresh garlic baked into every bite.

The restaurant maintains authenticity without making compromises, offering flavors that transport you straight to India with each forkful.

A welcoming atmosphere makes first-time visitors feel like regulars, with staff treating everyone like family.

The menu covers all the classics you’d expect, executed with care and attention to traditional preparation methods.

Generous portions mean you’ll likely have delicious leftovers to enjoy the next day.

Prices remain reasonable despite the high quality, making Anarkali accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions.

The restaurant’s longevity in a competitive market speaks volumes about its consistent quality and loyal customer base.

For anyone seeking authentic Indian flavors in California without gimmicks or fusion experiments, Anarkali delivers exactly what you’re craving.

7. Bhanu Indian Cuisine & Market

Bhanu Indian Cuisine & Market at 7246 Rosemead Blvd in San Gabriel offers a unique combination that serious Indian food lovers absolutely adore.

This spot functions as both a restaurant and a market, allowing you to enjoy a meal and then shop for ingredients to recreate dishes at home.

Many in the Indian community consider Bhanu as authentic as it gets in California, high praise that speaks to the quality and traditional preparation methods.

The market section stocks hard-to-find spices, lentils, and specialty ingredients that home cooks struggle to locate elsewhere.

Walking through the aisles feels like exploring a market in India, with familiar brands and products that spark nostalgia for those who know them.

The restaurant side serves traditional dishes prepared with the same ingredients available in the market, ensuring absolute freshness and authenticity.

Prices remain incredibly reasonable, making this a go-to spot for families and anyone watching their budget without sacrificing quality.

The casual atmosphere encourages lingering, whether you’re enjoying a meal or browsing the market shelves for your next cooking project.

Staff members are knowledgeable about both the food and the products, happy to offer cooking advice or recipe suggestions.

Bhanu represents the kind of authentic, community-focused establishment that makes California’s Indian food scene so special and worth exploring.

8. Vik’s Chaat

Vik’s Chaat at 2390 Fourth St in Berkeley offers an experience unlike any other Indian restaurant in California.

The cafeteria-style setup might surprise first-timers, but it’s actually the perfect format for sampling various street foods.

Chaat refers to savory snacks popular throughout India, typically sold by street vendors and enjoyed as quick bites rather than full meals.

Vik’s brings this street food culture indoors, offering a safe and comfortable way to explore flavors that might otherwise require international travel.

The menu features an impressive variety of chaats, from crispy samosas to tangy pani puri, each prepared with authentic techniques and spices.

Ordering cafeteria-style means you can see the food before committing, helpful for those unfamiliar with specific dishes.

The casual atmosphere encourages experimentation, making it easy to try something new without the pressure of formal dining.

Prices are extremely affordable, allowing you to order multiple items and create your own tasting menu without breaking the bank.

The attached market sells groceries and prepared foods, extending your visit beyond just the restaurant experience.

Lines can get long during peak hours, a testament to Vik’s popularity among both students and serious food enthusiasts.

For anyone wanting to understand Indian street food culture, Vik’s Chaat in California provides an accessible and delicious introduction.

9. New Delhi Restaurant & Bar

New Delhi Restaurant & Bar holds court at 160 Ellis St in San Francisco, earning recognition from The New York Times as one of America’s best Indian restaurants.

That kind of national acclaim doesn’t come easy, especially in a city with as many dining options as San Francisco.

The downtown location makes it convenient for both tourists exploring the city and locals looking for reliable, delicious Indian food.

Traditional preparations dominate the menu, offering comfort and familiarity to those who know Indian cuisine well.

The restaurant’s longevity in San Francisco’s competitive dining scene speaks to consistent quality and a loyal customer base that keeps returning.

Classic dishes are executed with care, from tender tandoori preparations to rich curry sauces that coat each grain of rice perfectly.

The downtown ambiance creates a pleasant dining environment, neither too formal nor too casual.

Service maintains a professional standard, with staff who understand the menu thoroughly and can guide diners toward dishes that match their preferences.

The restaurant handles both intimate dinners and larger groups with equal competence, making it versatile for different occasions.

New Delhi proves that sometimes the classics done exceptionally well are exactly what diners crave.

For visitors exploring California who want a reliable, acclaimed Indian dining experience in San Francisco, New Delhi delivers exactly that.

10. Roots Indian Bistro

Roots Indian Bistro at 7265 Melrose Ave in Los Angeles has earned an impressive following, with outstanding ratings that reflect consistently excellent experiences.

The restaurant focuses on freshly made food, with nothing sitting under heat lamps or prepared hours in advance.

Cleanliness stands out immediately when you walk in, creating an environment where you feel confident about what you’re eating.

Vegetarian and vegan diners particularly love Roots, as the menu offers creative plant-based options that never feel like afterthoughts.

The kitchen treats vegetarian dishes with the same care and creativity as meat preparations, resulting in satisfying meals for all dietary preferences.

Creative entrees showcase the chef’s willingness to experiment while maintaining authentic flavors that honor Indian culinary traditions.

Service consistently receives praise, with staff who are attentive, friendly, and genuinely invested in ensuring you enjoy your meal.

The bistro atmosphere strikes a nice balance between casual and special, making it appropriate for everything from weeknight dinners to celebrations.

Portions are generous without being overwhelming, leaving you satisfied but not uncomfortably full.

The restaurant’s commitment to quality over shortcuts has created a loyal following that continues to grow.

For anyone exploring California’s Indian restaurant scene, Roots Indian Bistro represents the kind of neighborhood gem that makes every visit feel special.