John Myers
Introduction: India’s Culinary Scene
Indian cuisine is a vast and diverse culinary treasure trove that has been influenced by a rich history of trade, colonization, and regional traditions. The cuisine of India is known for its use of spices, herbs, and rich flavors that vary vastly depending on the region. From the fiery and spicy curries of the north to the tangy seafood dishes of the south, Indian cuisine is a must-try for all food lovers around the world. Indian cuisine has been gaining in global popularity over the past few decades, with Indian restaurants popping up in every major city in the world. In this article, we will be exploring some of the best Indian restaurants in India and some of the must-try dishes to indulge in.
Top Indian Restaurants in Delhi
Delhi is one of the best places in India to explore the food culture of the country. The city’s diverse cuisines come from the various regions that make up the country. From the spicy street food of Old Delhi to the more refined restaurants in New Delhi, there is no shortage of options for food lovers. Some of the top restaurants in Delhi include Bukhara, Indian Accent, and Karim’s. Bukhara is known for its signature dish, the dal makhani, which is a slow-cooked lentil curry. Indian Accent is known for its modern take on traditional Indian cuisine, with dishes like the soy keema, a vegetarian version of the classic Indian dish. Karim’s, on the other hand, is known for its Mughlai cuisine, with dishes like the butter chicken and biryani being popular among locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Dishes in Mumbai
Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is also known for its street food and local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Mumbai include vada pav, a type of spicy potato fritter sandwiched in a bun, and pav bhaji, a vegetable curry served with bread. For a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Trishna and Gajalee offer some of the best seafood in the city. Trishna’s butter garlic crab is a must-try for seafood lovers, while Gajalee’s pomfret fry is also a popular dish. For those with a sweet tooth, Mumbai is also known for its desserts, with dishes like the kulfi and rabri being popular choices.
Traditional Cuisine in Kolkata
Kolkata is known for its traditional cuisine, with dishes like the mishti doi, a sweet yogurt dessert, and the roshogolla, a spongy sweet made from cheese, being popular choices. For a more traditional dining experience, restaurants like Bhojohori Manna and 6 Ballygunge Place offer some of the best Bengali cuisine in the city. Dishes like the kosha mangsho, a slow-cooked mutton curry, and the cholar dal, a sweet lentil curry, are popular among locals and tourists alike.
South Indian Flavors in Chennai
Chennai, the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. South Indian cuisine is known for its use of rice, lentils, and coconut, with dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar being popular choices. For a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Peshawari and Dakshin offer traditional South Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Dishes like the murgh makhani, a butter chicken dish, and the allepey fish curry, a spicy fish curry made with coconut milk, are popular choices.
Fusion Food in Bangalore
Bangalore, the capital of the southern state of Karnataka, is known for its fusion cuisine that combines traditional Indian flavors with international ingredients. Restaurants like The Fatty Bao and Smoke House Deli offer some of the best fusion cuisine in the city. Dishes like the pork belly bao, a Chinese-inspired dish, and the smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel, a New York-inspired dish, are popular choices among locals and tourists alike.
Vegetarian Options Across India
Vegetarianism is a way of life for many Indians, with vegetarian options being available across the country. Some of the must-try vegetarian dishes in India include the paneer tikka, a grilled paneer dish, and the chana masala, a spicy chickpea curry. Restaurants like Surya Mahal and Thali offer traditional vegetarian Indian cuisine, while restaurants like Swad and The Vegan Kitchen offer vegan options as well.
Street Food Tour in Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital of the northern state of Rajasthan, is known for its street food culture. A street food tour in Jaipur is a must-do for food lovers, with dishes like the kachori, a spicy snack filled with lentils and spices, and the pyaaz kachori, a fried dough filled with onions, being popular choices. For a more upscale dining experience, restaurants like Spice Court and Suvarna Mahal offer some of the best Rajasthani cuisine in the city.
Seafood Specialties in Goa
Goa, a coastal state in western India, is known for its seafood specialties. Restaurants like Fisherman’s Wharf and Martin’s Corner offer some of the best seafood in the state. Dishes like the prawn curry and the fish thali, a meal that includes various types of fish, rice, and vegetables, are popular choices among locals and tourists alike.
Exploring Spices & Herbs in Indian Cooking
Indian cuisine is known for its use of spices and herbs, with each region having its own unique blend of flavors. Some of the must-try spices in Indian cooking include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Herbs like mint, cilantro, and curry leaves are also commonly used in Indian cuisine. Exploring the various spices and herbs used in Indian cooking is a must for food lovers, as it adds depth and complexity to the dishes.
