The 13 best Indian restaurants in Las Vegas

Located in the strangest of places, in the back of a sports bar on the west side of town, Toddy Shop offers scrumptious Southern Indian fare to the adventurers who seek it out. Chef Hemant Kishore’s takes on queen karimeen (a spicy fried fish made with pompano) and rajah masala (think Indian pico de gallo) are just two reasons to make the journey to this off-the-beaten-path hole in the wall.

A favorite among foodies, this stalwart on the east side of town has become so popular it recently opened another location in the southwest. The venue’s philosophy, proclaimed on the official website, is “simple, fresh, flavorful and colorful food that appeals to all five senses.” Boy, does the staff succeed in making that a reality. Specialties include an inferno menu for those looking for extreme heat and a lassi bar featuring about 10 different types of the refreshing Indian fruit shake.

A favorite among University of Nevada, Las Vegas students, Dehli might sit in a nondescript strip mall but it certainly delivers big and memorable flavors. As far as lunch buffets go, this one might be the best in town, featuring more dishes than most and including both classic favorites and lesser known delicacies (think chicken makhani and Punjab curry).

Yes, you read that right: An Indian burrito place! Continuing the Indian food tour through the college corridor, this tiny space used to house a drive-through coffee shop. Now, it is responsible for seving Indian-Mexican mashups. Diners pick their proteins of choice—anything from lamb stir fry to tofu chilli—then select a masala spiced rice, the desired spice level and finally choose their tortilla type for a taste that is as unique as it sounds.

For those looking for something bolder than usual, look no further. Rani’s is a large market featuring aisles filled with spices, oils, candies and more but the star of the show is a delightful woman in the back who cooks authentic Indian cuisine. Instead of going à la carte, order the thali, which features a number of freshly made delicacies, and get lost in the culinary experience.