Times Square, New York City’s pulsating heart, is known for its bright lights, Broadway shows, and bustling streets. But when it comes to dining, Times Square offers far more than just fast food and touristy spots. Amidst the neon lights and theaters, there are hidden gems where you can indulge in authentic Indian cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for traditional curries, tandoori specialties, or Indian street food, here are some top Indian restaurants near Indian food Times Square NYC e that offer rich, flavorful, and satisfying meals.
- Saar Indian Bistro
- Vibe: Contemporary, upscale Indian dining
- What to Expect: Saar Indian Bistro is a short walk from Times Square, offering a refined yet approachable take on Indian cuisine. Helmed by celebrity chef Hemant Mathur, this restaurant is perfect for a pre-theater meal or a leisurely dinner. Saar’s menu highlights both traditional and modern Indian dishes, with specialties like “Tandoori Lamb Chops” and “Paneer Tikka.” The sleek, modern interior combined with authentic flavors makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Chops, Malabar Shrimp Curry
- Utsav
Vibe: Elegant, mid-range dining with a diverse menu
- What to Expect: Utsav, located just steps from Times Square, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the area. Situated between 46th and 47th Street, Utsav is ideal for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated Indian meal with a wide variety of dishes representing different regions of India. From fragrant biryanis and creamy “Butter Chicken” to spicy vindaloos, there’s something for every palate. The restaurant also offers a lunch buffet, which is a great option for those seeking variety.
- Must-Try Dish: Butter Chicken, Goat Rogan Josh
- Tadka Indian Restaurant
- Vibe: Casual, cozy Indian comfort food
- What to Expect: Tadka is a hidden gem located near Times Square that offers a laid-back atmosphere with an authentic, homestyle menu. The restaurant focuses on North Indian and Mughlai cuisine, serving hearty portions of well-seasoned dishes like “Chicken Tikka Masala,” “Saag Paneer,” and “Tandoori Chicken.” It’s an excellent spot for those who want a quick but satisfying meal without sacrificing quality. The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for casual dining near the theater district.
- Must-Try Dish: Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Vindaloo
- Patiala Indian Grill
- Vibe: Fast-casual, flavorful Indian fare
- What to Expect: While a bit further from Times Square (about a 10-minute walk), Patiala Indian Grill is worth the short trip for its fast, casual, and flavorful Indian dishes. The restaurant serves classic Indian comfort food with a focus on fresh ingredients and generous portions. Their “Thali Plates” offer a well-rounded meal with several small dishes, perfect for those wanting to sample a variety of flavors. The service is fast, making it an ideal spot for lunch or a quick dinner before heading back to Times Square.
- Must-Try Dish: Chicken Thali, Paneer Kathi Roll
- Minar
- Vibe: Quick, casual Indian bites
- What to Expect: Minar is a casual, quick-service Indian restaurant perfect for a fast meal without sacrificing authenticity. Located on 46th Street, it’s a great place to grab lunch or dinner before catching a Broadway show. Minar’s menu offers a wide selection of classic North Indian dishes such as “Palak Paneer,” “Lamb Curry,” and “Chole Bhature” (spiced chickpeas with deep-fried bread). While the ambiance is simple, the flavors are rich and satisfying. The prices are also very affordable, making it a favorite for budget-conscious diners.
- Must-Try Dish: Lamb Curry, Chole Bhature
- Bombay Masala
- Vibe: Casual, quick-service Indian food
- What to Expect: Another excellent option for a quick meal in the heart of Times Square, Bombay Masala offers an array of flavorful, freshly prepared Indian dishes. With a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, this restaurant is perfect for a grab-and-go meal or a casual sit-down dinner. Their “Vegetable Biryani” and “Chicken Korma” are standouts, but you’ll also find Indian street food options like samosas and pakoras. The casual vibe and affordable prices make it a go-to for tourists and locals alike.
- Must-Try Dish: Vegetable Biryani, Chicken Korma
- Bhatti Indian Grill
- Vibe: Traditional, tandoor-focused
- What to Expect: A short cab ride from Times Square will take you to Bhatti Indian Grill in Murray Hill, a neighborhood known for its concentration of excellent Indian restaurants. Bhatti is a tandoor-centric restaurant offering a menu packed with flavorful grilled meats, kebabs, and curries. The “Tandoori Prawns” and “Lamb Seekh Kebab” are must-tries, while their rotating seasonal dishes provide a taste of India’s diverse regional flavors. The casual yet stylish setting makes it a popular destination for food lovers looking for authenticity.
- Must-Try Dish: Tandoori Prawns, Lamb Seekh Kebab
- Vibe: Cozy, regional Indian cuisine
- What to Expect: Chote Nawab, located in Murray Hill’s Curry Hill, specializes in the flavors of Lucknow, a city known for its rich culinary traditions, especially kebabs and biryanis. If you’re in the mood for a delicious, slow-cooked “Mutton Biryani” or melt-in-your-mouth “Galouti Kebabs,” this is the place to go. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, and the service is attentive, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal outside the Times Square hustle.
- Must-Try Dish: Mutton Biryani, Galouti Kebab
Conclusion
Times Square may be known for its neon lights and big crowds, but it also hides some of the best spots for authentic Indian food. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite at Minar, a refined meal at Saar Indian Bistro, or the comfort food of Tadka, you’ll find plenty of Indian flavors to satisfy your cravings. From upscale dining to casual eateries, there’s something for everyone, making your visit to Times Square not just a visual feast, but a culina