At the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco, you’ll find everything from fragrant curries at laid-back local favorites to modern takes on the classics at elegant bistros.
Head to Union Square for a full-out Northern Indian feast and popular weekend brunch. Try playful Indian-American mashups at a Castro favorite, or enjoy classic Indian and Nepalese fare in an elegant Menlo Park setting when you dine at the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco.
Book a table at one of the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco on OpenTable today.
Discover the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco on OpenTable.
For classic Indian dishes in a cozy setting – visit Tilak Indian and Nepalese Cuisine (Menlo Park)
Situated just off the busy El Camino Real, Tilak Indian and Nepalese Cuisine is where you go for familiar Indian favorites. The wood panel accents complement the furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere for enjoying standout dishes like creamy butter chicken, lamb biryani, and Nepalese-style chow mein. Don’t miss the business lunch menu, which includes a rotating selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices.
For innovative Indian cuisine at Bay Area favorite – enjoy a meal at ROOH (SOMA and Palo Alto)
With locations in SOMA and Palo Alto, ROOH is known for its innovative takes on traditional Indian recipes starring California produce. Expect standout dishes like slow-cooked lamb shank nihari in a maximalist setting, complete with velvet chairs and striking murals. In Palo Alto, an open grill produces flame-kissed dishes like barbecue pork ribs. Cap meals at either location with clever desserts like mango tamarind sorbet.
For an impressive Northern Indian buffet and bottomless mimosas – visit Amber India (Downtown/Union Square)
With vaulted ceilings, detailed oil paintings, and burgundy accents augmented by warm lighting, Amber India’s sophisticated decor sets the stage for stellar Northern Indian feasts. Savor fragrant biryani, mughlai chicken tikka from the tandoori oven, and juicy awadhi lamb korma with cashews. Don’t miss the popular weekend brunch, starring bottomless champagne and mimosas, vegetarian and meat favorites, a chaat bar, and a live cooking station.
For expertly prepared, family-friendly Indian favorites – book a table at The Yellow Chilli by Master Chef Sanjeev Kapoor (Danville)
The Yellow Chilli by Master Chef Sanjeev Kapoor is a top destination for gourmet Indian cuisine. With outdoor seating and generous portions of mainstays like biryani, dals, and vegetable platters, the restaurant is a good choice for large groups and families. Order the prawns cooked in the tandoor or the fish tikka masala topped with a tangy gravy sauce. Linger with an elegant dessert like rose-flavored rice pudding on the charming patio dressed with string lights and fire pits.
For standout curries in the heart of Downtown – try New Delhi Restaurant (Downtown/Union Square)
For a top-notch Indian meal in the heart of Downtown, head to New Delhi Restaurant. The carpeted and brick-lined venue boasts numerous tables where guests enjoy generous portions in an elegant setting. While soaking in the lively atmosphere, try the flavorful chicken tikka masala, the fish Goa curry, or the yellow dal tarka. For an all-out feast or special occasion, try the chef’s tasting menu, which includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
For Indian fusion food in a laid-back environment – reserve a table at Castro Indian Restaurant & Bar (The Castro)
Castro Indian Restaurant & Bar reinvents classic American dishes with punchy Indian spices and cooking methods. Settle into one of the cozy booths beneath colorful paintings for a feast of clever Indian-American mashups like a tandoori chicken sandwich and creamy chicken tikka linguine alongside tandoor-cooked favorites like kebabs and lamb chops. Wash it all down with a hot masala chai or clever cocktail like a piña colada lassi—available with or without alcohol.
For an assortment of regional Indian dishes in a relaxed setting – visit Roti Indian Bistro (Forest Hill/West Portal)
With vegetarian specialties from the South and charcoal-grilled tandoori offerings from the North, Roti Indian Bistro has it all. The cozy neighborhood gem features framed pictures of Indian landscapes and large windows, ideal for large groups and digging into dishes like garlic naan and buttery chicken korma. For refreshment, select a cocktail, beer, or glass of wine from the full bar, or finish your meal with tea.
Whether you’re craving platters of char-grilled tandoori or a warming butter chicken curry, a selection of regional dishes and fusion foods await at the best Indian restaurants in San Francisco. Dig into a plate of fluffy biryani in Union Square, or enjoy an all-out feast at a popular lunch buffet Downtown when you book a table at a top Indian restaurant San Francisco on OpenTable.
