Best Indian Food in Chicago & Top Pakistani Restaurants to Try

Chicago is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, and for those who love bold flavors, rich spices, and authentic South Asian dishes, the city offers some of the best indian food in chicago alongside incredible Pakistani restaurant options. Whether you're craving aromatic biryanis, buttery naan, sizzling kebabs, or flavorful curries, these restaurants deliver an unforgettable dining experience.

Best Indian Restaurants in Chicago

1. The Spice Room

Located in Logan Square, The Spice Room is known for its authentic Indian flavors and home-style cooking. Their butter chicken, dal makhani, and garlic naan are fan favorites. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a casual yet flavorful meal.

2. ROOH Chicago

For those who love a modern twist on Indian cuisine, ROOH offers a fine dining experience with a contemporary menu. Their fusion dishes, like tandoori octopus and jackfruit tacos, elevate traditional Indian flavors while maintaining authenticity. Pair your meal with one of their expertly crafted cocktails for a complete experience.

3. India House

A staple for Indian food lovers, India House serves everything from delicious dosas to flavorful curries. Their lunch buffet is a must-try, featuring a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including lamb rogan josh, paneer tikka, and freshly made samosas.

4. Uru-Swati

If you’re looking for delicious vegetarian Indian food, Uru-Swati is a hidden gem in Chicago. Their South Indian specialties like crispy masala dosa, idli, and sambhar are highly recommended. The flavors are rich, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a quick yet satisfying meal.

5. Tandoor Char House

Blending the best of Indian and Pakistani cuisine, Tandoor Char House is famous for its flavorful tandoori meats, creamy curries, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their butter chicken and seekh kebabs are among the best in the city.

Top Pakistani Restaurants in Chicago

1. Sabri Nihari

No list of pakistani restaurant chicago is complete without Sabri Nihari. This Devon Avenue staple is best known for its slow-cooked nihari, a tender beef stew simmered with rich spices. Their seekh kebabs, biryanis, and freshly baked naan are also must-try dishes.

2. Usmania Fine Dining

For an upscale Pakistani dining experience, Usmania Fine Dining offers a variety of traditional dishes, including butter chicken, lamb karahi, and flavorful biryanis. Their extensive menu ensures that both vegetarians and meat lovers find something to enjoy.

3. Khan BBQ

If you're in the mood for smoky, grilled flavors, Khan BBQ is the go-to spot for Pakistani barbecue. Their beef boti, charred chicken tikka, and spicy bihari kebabs are packed with authentic flavors. Pair them with fresh naan and raita for the perfect meal.

4. Bundoo Khan

Known for its mouthwatering BBQ platters, Bundoo Khan specializes in Pakistani-style grilled meats cooked over charcoal. Their paratha rolls, featuring juicy kebabs wrapped in flaky bread, are a local favorite for a quick and delicious meal.

5. Al-Meezan Restaurant

For a no-frills, authentic Pakistani dining experience, Al-Meezan delivers delicious and budget-friendly meals. Their mutton karahi, haleem, and biryani are rich in spices and perfectly cooked, making it a must-visit for traditional Pakistani flavors.

What Makes Indian & Pakistani Cuisine Special?

Both Indian and Pakistani cuisines are known for their use of bold spices, slow-cooked techniques, and deep-rooted cultural influences. Some key elements that make these dishes unique include:

• Aromatic Spices – Both cuisines rely on a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, cardamom, and garam masala to create rich, complex flavors.
• Tandoori Cooking – The clay oven (tandoor) is used for making naan, kebabs, and smoky, flavorful meats.
• Slow-Cooked Curries – Whether it's a creamy butter chicken or a robust lamb karahi, these dishes are cooked over low heat for maximum flavor infusion.
• Biryani & Rice Dishes – A fragrant and flavorful dish made with basmati rice, saffron, and a blend of meat or vegetables.
• Bread & Accompaniments – From fluffy naan to crispy parathas, Indian and Pakistani meals often include a variety of breads to scoop up the delicious curries.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a taste of South Asia, Chicago offers an impressive selection of restaurants serving the best Indian food in Chicago and outstanding Pakistani restaurant options. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional curries, sizzling BBQ, or fragrant biryanis, the city has something to satisfy every palate.

Next time you're in the Windy City, be sure to explore these incredible restaurants and indulge in the rich, flavorful dishes that make Indian and Pakistani cuisine truly special.