Vancouver is a melting pot of diverse cultures and cuisines, including Indian cuisine. If you’re a fan of Indian food or looking to try it for the first time, Vancouver has a range of options to satisfy your taste buds. From aromatic curries to savory samosas and crispy dosas, Indian cuisine has something to offer everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Indian food in Vancouver. We’ll cover a range of best restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries, that offer authentic and delicious Indian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy and flavorful or mild and comforting dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to explore Vancouver’s vibrant Indian food scene and discover your new favorite Indian restaurant in the city. Let’s dive in!
Types of Indian cuisine in Vancouver
Indian cuisine is diverse and varies greatly depending on the region, with each region offering a unique set of flavors and ingredients. In Vancouver, you’ll find a range of Indian cuisine types, from North Indian to South Indian and Indo-Chinese.
North Indian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes, featuring rich gravies and fragrant spices. Some popular North Indian dishes include butter chicken, naan, and tandoori chicken.
South Indian cuisine, on the other hand, is characterized by lighter dishes and the use of coconut and curry leaves in its cuisine. Dosas, idlis, and sambar are some of the most popular South Indian dishes.
Indo-Chinese cuisine is a fusion of Indian and Chinese flavors, with spicy and tangy sauces used in dishes like chili chicken and Hakka noodles.
Each type of cuisine has unique flavors and ingredients, making Indian food a true delight for the senses. Whether you prefer bold and spicy or mild and savory dishes, there’s something for everyone in Vancouver’s Indian food scene.
Fine dining Indian restaurants in Vancouver
If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience with impeccable service and exceptional food, Vancouver’s fine-dining Indian restaurants are a must-visit.
These restaurants offer a unique and sophisticated ambiance, making them the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
1. Vij’s
Vij’s is one of the best restaurants in Vancouver, known for its innovative takes on classic Indian dishes.
The restaurant features elegant and modern decor, with an open kitchen and a beautiful patio. Don’t miss their famous lamb popsicles, made with boneless lamb chops marinated in a cumin and paprika spice blend.
2. Rangoli
Rangoli is the sister restaurant of Vij’s, offering a more casual and relaxed dining experience. The menu features a selection of small plates and snacks, perfect for sharing.
Try their savory chaat, a popular Indian street food snack made with crispy crackers, potatoes, chickpeas, and yogurt.
3. Mumbai Local
Mumbai Local offers a contemporary twist on traditional Indian street food. The restaurant features an eclectic decor with vibrant colors and graffiti art.
Don’t miss their famous vada pav, a vegetarian sandwich made with a spicy potato fritter, chutney, and a soft bun.
These fine-dining Indian restaurants in Vancouver offer a truly exceptional dining experience, showcasing the best of Indian cuisine in an elegant and sophisticated setting.
Casual Indian eateries in Vancouver
If you’re looking for a more laid-back and affordable dining experience, Vancouver’s casual Indian eateries offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with delicious food at affordable prices.
1. Chutneys Indian Grill
Chutneys Indian Grill is a family-owned restaurant that serves up traditional Indian cuisine in a casual setting. The menu features a variety of curries, tandoori dishes, and biryanis.
Don’t miss their butter chicken, made with succulent pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce.
2. Indian Roti Kitchen
Indian Roti Kitchen is a popular spot for Indian street food. The restaurant offers a variety of wraps, salads, and bowls, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. Don’t miss their chicken tikka wrap, made with tender pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices.
3. Dosa Factory
Dosa Factory is the best restaurant that specializes in South Indian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dosas, a thin and crispy crepe made with rice and lentil batter, as well as other South Indian dishes like idlis and vadas.
Don’t miss their masala dosa, a flavorful crepe filled with spiced potatoes and served with coconut chutney and sambar.
These casual Indian eateries offer delicious food at affordable prices, making them a great option for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Vegetarian and vegan Indian restaurants in Vancouver
For vegetarians and vegans, Indian cuisine is a dream come true with its abundant use of plant-based ingredients. Vancouver has several Indian restaurants that cater specifically to those with plant-based diets, offering a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
1. The Naam
The Naam is a legendary vegetarian restaurant in Vancouver, serving up delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes since 1968.
The restaurant features a laid-back atmosphere with funky decor and live music. Don’t miss their popular miso gravy, which is served with many of their dishes.
2. Miraas
Miraas is a vegetarian Indian restaurant that offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The menu features traditional dishes from North and South India, including curries, biryanis, and dosas.
Don’t miss their paneer tikka masala, made with chunks of cottage cheese simmered in a creamy tomato sauce.
3. Indigo Age Cafe
Indigo Age Cafe is a vegan restaurant offering unique and healthy Indian cuisine. The menu features a variety of vegan dishes, including raw and gluten-free options.
Don’t miss their vegan kofta, made with spiced vegetable balls in a rich tomato sauce.
These vegetarian and vegan Indian restaurants in Vancouver offer a great selection of plant-based options, catering to those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Indian street food in Vancouver
1. Chawalla
Chawalla is a food truck that serves up delicious Indian street food, including samosas, kati rolls, and chai tea. Don’t miss their butter chicken kati roll, which is filled with succulent pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce.
2. Indian Delicacy
Indian Delicacy is a food truck that specializes in vegetarian and vegan Indian street food. The menu features a variety of wraps, bowls, and snacks, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Don’t miss their chana masala bowl, made with spiced chickpeas and served with basmati rice.
3. The Curryer
The Curryer is a food truck that serves up Indian fusion dishes, such as their famous butter chicken poutine. Don’t miss their Bombay fries, which are topped with spiced chickpeas, tamarind chutney, and cilantro.
These Indian street food vendors and food trucks in Vancouver offer a unique and delicious experience, allowing you to try a variety of Indian dishes in a fun and casual setting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene is a foodie’s dream come true, with a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. Among them, the best Indian food in Vancouver stands out, with its vibrant flavors and spices that tantalize taste buds.
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the diverse world of Indian cuisine in Vancouver and try out new dishes. From butter chicken to dosas to chana masala, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be discovered in the best Indian food in Vancouver.