Are you a fan of South Asian cuisine? From the subcontinent to Southern California, there are plenty of places to get a taste of the flavors of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Whether you're looking for classic dishes like chicken tikka masala or something more adventurous like nihari or haleem, here are some of the best Indian dinner specials in Southern California. Al-Noor in Lawndale has been serving up halal Desi dishes since 1998. Their menu features classic Indian and Pakistani dishes like chicken tikka masala, palak paneer, and lamb korma. But if you're feeling adventurous, try their nihari - a stew of braised meat with ginger and jalapeño - or haleem - a hearty puree of chicken, wheat, barley, lentils, herbs and spices. And don't forget to try their garlic naan - freshly baked and hot from the tandoor. Jay Bharat in Artesia has been around since 1988 and specializes in a mix of high-quality Indian sweets and vegetarian Gujarati cuisine.
They offer thali dishes for takeout or delivery, as well as a variety of sweets that can be shipped across the country. Stop by for some delicious jalebi spirals, milky white squares of kaju katli, and other hard-to-find candies. Or try their chaat street snacks like stuffed and fried puris or kachori khasta - a type of crispy pastry filled with lentils and mung beans. Tandoor-A-India near the beach is one of the most popular Indian restaurants in Southern California. They use tandoori ovens made of stainless steel or clay to create the unique smoky flavor that characterizes favorite dishes like tandoori chicken.
And if you can't handle the heat, just ask - they'll adjust the spice level to your liking. Mint Leaf in Pasadena is another great spot for Indian food. Streets of India Cafe is a family restaurant that specializes in Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine. Badmaash is a modern Indian restaurant that combines Toronto-style arrogance and South Asian spices for a unique menu featuring classic Indian dishes as well as fun dishes like chicken poutine tikka and naan with cheese and chili. Tulsi is a fast-food restaurant dedicated to offering regional Indian food from all over the country.
And Tumbi Craft Indian Kitchen in Santa Monica offers an eclectic twist on traditional Indian food. If you're looking for some of the best Indian food in Southern California, head to India's Restaurant in South Bay for their creamy red chicken tikka masala. Cardamom Indian Cuisine prides itself on using only fresh ingredients - nothing canned or frozen! Mayura Restaurant in Culver City is great for vegetarians. And Silver Lake's Big India Market has turned into an incredible cafeteria-style restaurant with more than 30 years in business. No matter where you are in Southern California, you're never too far from some amazing Indian cuisine. From Little India in Artesia to Silver Lake and West Hollywood, these restaurants (as well as Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan) are sure to satisfy your craving for South Asian flavors.
