Searching for the best Indian restaurants in Miami? It’s no easy task (at least not as easy as finding one of the best Cuban restaurants in Miami or one of the best Miami beaches). It’s certainly not an impossible mission, though. Because we have some really, really tasty Indian options in this city—from your classic hole-in-the-wall joints you might accidentally drive right past to buzzy James Beard-nominated establishments. They are scattered across this city too, from the far reaches of suburbia to the glamorous Design District. So, it’s safe to say that wherever you are in Miami, right now, there’s some amazing Indian close by. Check out your options below and put that theory to the test.
What is it? A James Beard-nominated Indian restaurant that, in just a couple years, has become a darling of Miami’s food scene. Every ingredient possible is sourced from local South Florida farms and used to create wonderfully inventive Gujarat-inspired cuisine.
Why go? It’s hard to point to one dish since the menu changes to accommodate what’s in season, but you’d be wise to do the three-course tasting menu for $55 a person if you really want to eat.
What is it? An always-buzzing Coconut Grove hotspot serving Indian comfort classics under the purple lighting of its glitzy space. This place provides a much-needed Indian option in an area without many.
Why go? Any of the two-thumbs-up chutneys. Get a side of mango chutney and throw that thing on everything.
What is it? Mumbai meets Miami. At Saffron, Florida and Indian flavors combine for fusion dishes we can’t believe no one thought of before, like Key West coconut shrimp curry or shrimp mojo tikka.
Why go? The tandoori Florida lobster tail. It’s a mash-up that goes deliciously well.
What is it? A neighborhood favorite that is hard to miss at night, when it lights up like a Christmas tree with signage. You’ll find all the classics here: samosas, tandoor dishes, warm naan and more.
Why go? For an unassuming yet delicious dinner (and because there aren’t a ton of options that far south).
What is it? A hidden gem tucked away among the bustle of Downtown. The casual Bengal is perfect for a quick lunch during work or a lazy dinner after your shift is up.
Why go? The $9.95 lunch buffet during the week. Hard to beat (but easy to eat).
What is it? And Indian favorite waiting for you in a nondescript shopping plaza. Inside the restaurant, the decor is a bit over-the-top (in a charming way) but the food is no-fuss Indian favorites. Take advantage of $10.99 lunch specials from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Why go? This place is near Miami Airport and while we don’t recommend a hearty Indian meal before a flight, but it makes for a nice welcome home meal.
What is it? When in North Miami (and craving Indian), turn to Zaika. Everything coming out of the tandoor clay oven is wonderful (especially the baked chicken wings). We recommend some samosas to start and—after that—just go wild.
Why go? The Kerala pepper chicken. It’s one of the southern Indian dishes this place specializes in.
What is it? A local Indian chain with four locations in the Gables, Coral Springs, South Miami and Miami Beach. At each one, you’ll find tandoori chicken, lamb tikka masala and the rest of the usual suspects.
Why go? The sprawling lunch buffet, available every day from noon to 3:30pm for $16.95.
What is it? Indian food with a side of pizzazz. Bollywood movies play while you chow down and live Indian dancers have been known to shimmy their way through dinner service.
Why go? Because the thali platters are perfect for indecisive diners. Order up and nibble on a little bit of everything.
Because can you ever go wrong with pizza?
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