Top 8 Best Indian Restaurants in Baltimore
The global culinary landscape has seen a significant shift in recent years, with an increased demand for Indian food. This surge in popularity is largely due to the growing Indian community abroad, who bring with them a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions. Food, in many ways, defines the identity of the Indian community. It is a symbol of their heritage, a testament to their vibrant culture, and a means of bringing families together.
One city that has embraced the allure of Indian cuisine is Baltimore. Known for its diverse food scene, Baltimore has become a hub for food enthusiasts seeking to explore the tantalizing tastes of Indian food. The city is home to a number of Indian restaurants, each offering a unique take on traditional Indian dishes.
Best Indian Restaurants in Baltimore, MD
Kumari Restaurant & Bar
911 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 547-1600
https://www.kumarirestaurant.net/
Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, Kumari Restaurant & Bar offers a unique blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Nepalese cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance is a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary design elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
At Kumari, the emphasis is on the taste and quality of food. The menu is a testament to the diverse culinary traditions of India, Tibet, and Nepal. Standout menu items include the eggplant curry, a dish that is as flavorful as it is aromatic; the chicken korma, a creamy and rich dish that is a staple in Indian cuisine; and the chicken tikka masala, a crowd favorite that perfectly balances spice and flavor.
The restaurant also offers excellent samosas and momos. The samosas, a popular Indian snack, are crispy on the outside and filled with a delicious mixture of spiced potatoes and peas. The momos, a Tibetan delicacy, are steamed dumplings filled with a choice of meat or vegetables.
Namaste Baltimore
413 W Cold Spring Ln, Baltimore, MD 21210
(410) 889-2233
https://www.namastebaltimore.com/
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Hampden, Namaste Baltimore is a family-owned restaurant that prides itself on using fresh ingredients to create authentic Indian dishes. The restaurant is open seven days a week, offering lunch and dinner options.
Namaste Baltimore is particularly known for its chicken tikka masala, a dish that can be customized to different spice levels to cater to individual preferences. The dish is a symphony of flavors, with tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato sauce.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other delicacies. The shrimp pakoras, deep-fried shrimp fritters, are a must-try for seafood lovers. The samosas and chicken momos are perfect for those looking for a flavorful snack or appetizer. The tandoori chicken, marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices and then cooked in a traditional clay oven, is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of India.
In addition to these, Namaste Baltimore also offers a kid’s menu, salads, seafood, vegetables, and rice specialties. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat-lover, or somewhere in between, there’s something for everyone at Namaste Baltimore. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience the best of Indian cuisine in Baltimore.
Indigma: Modern Indian Bistro
900 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD 21201
(443) 449-6483
https://www.namastebaltimore.com/
Situated in the bustling heart of Baltimore, Indigma – a Modern Indian Bistro, offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is a blend of modern aesthetics and traditional Indian elements, creating a space that is both contemporary and trendy.
Indigma stands out for its live sitar music on Saturdays, adding an authentic Indian touch to the dining experience. The restaurant offers a lunch buffet that showcases a variety of Indian dishes, with the garlic naan being a standout item. Soft, fluffy, and infused with the aromatic flavor of garlic, it is a must-try for any bread lover.
Indigma is the perfect place for a positive dining experience with friends. The combination of delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and live music makes it a great spot for social gatherings and celebrations.
Akbar Restaurant
823 N Charles St # B, Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 539-0944
Located in the heart of Baltimore, Akbar Restaurant is open seven days a week, offering both lunch and dinner options. The restaurant is known for its serene atmosphere and quick service, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful dining experience.
Akbar Restaurant offers a buffet that features a variety of staple Indian dishes. Highlights include the chicken chaat, a tangy and spicy dish; the onion bhajia, a crispy and flavorful snack; the paneer pakora, a delicious cheese fritter; the seekh kebab, a succulent and spiced meat skewer; the peshwari nan, a sweet and nutty bread; and the murg jehangiri, a rich and creamy chicken dish.
The restaurant also caters to dietary restrictions, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Akbar Restaurant offers the option for take-outs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their delicious Indian cuisine.
Tandav Indian Cuisine
1725 E Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21231
(443) 570-9142
https://www.tandavindiancuisinebaltimore.com/
Tandav Indian Cuisine is located in a charming corner of Baltimore, offering a cozy and homey ambiance that is perfect for families. The restaurant’s friendly and welcoming staff add to the warm atmosphere, making every guest feel at home.
The menu at Tandav Indian Cuisine is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of India. The goat curries, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, are a must-try for meat lovers. The chicken korma, a creamy and aromatic dish, is a crowd favorite. The saag paneer, a dish of soft cheese cubes in a creamy spinach sauce, is a delight for vegetarians. The biryani, a fragrant rice dish cooked with a variety of spices and meat or vegetables, is a staple in Indian cuisine.
Tandav Indian Cuisine offers a positive dining experience for families. The combination of delicious food, a warm atmosphere, and friendly staff makes it a great choice for family meals and celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, Tandav Indian Cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ambassador Dining Room
3811 Canterbury Rd, Baltimore, MD 21218
(410) 366-1484
https://www.ambassadordining.com/
Located in the upscale neighborhood of Tuscany-Canterbury, the Ambassador Dining Room offers a refined and upscale Indian dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, with tasteful decor that reflects the rich culture of India.
One of the unique features of the Ambassador Dining Room is its garden area for dining. This outdoor space provides a serene and beautiful setting, especially before sunset, making the dining experience even more memorable.
The restaurant offers a wide selection of exceptional dishes, including a variety of seafood options. Each dish is prepared with care and precision, showcasing the diverse flavors and techniques of Indian cuisine. The Ambassador Dining Room is the perfect place for a positive dining experience, especially before sunset when the garden area is bathed in a warm, golden light.
Darbar Indian Restaurant (Halal Food)
1911 Aliceanna St, Baltimore, MD 21231
(410) 563-8008
https://www.baltimoredarbar.com/
Darbar Indian Restaurant, located in the heart of Baltimore, is known for its focus on halal food. The restaurant’s staff is kind, patient, and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of.
The food preparation at Darbar is spot-on, with each dish showcasing the rich flavors and textures of Indian cuisine. A standout recommendation is the rasmalai for dessert. This traditional Indian sweet is made from soft cheese balls soaked in a creamy milk sauce, providing a sweet end to a flavorful meal.
Nepal House Restaurant and Bar
920 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 547-0001
https://www.thenepalhouse.com/
Nepal House Restaurant and Bar, located in downtown Baltimore, is open seven days a week, offering both lunch and dinner options. The restaurant is a popular dining spot for Indian customers, a testament to the authenticity of its dishes.
Popular dishes at Nepal House include the vegetable pakoras, a crispy and flavorful snack; the kashmiri naan, a sweet and nutty bread; the biryani, a fragrant rice dish; the malai Kabab, a creamy and flavorful chicken dish; the chicken jalfrize, a spicy and tangy dish; and the fish vindaloo, a hot and sour seafood dish.
Conclusion
Baltimore offers a variety of Indian dining experiences, from cozy atmospheres and attentive staff to tasty Indian eats. Whether you’re looking for a trendy bar vibe, an upscale setting, or family-style dining, there’s an Indian restaurant in Baltimore that caters to your preference.
As the weather warms up, many of these restaurants offer outdoor dining options, providing a unique way to enjoy Indian cuisine. So why not take advantage of the beautiful weather and explore the rich flavors of Indian food in Baltimore?
We invite our readers to share their favorite Indian restaurants in the comments. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, your recommendations can help others discover new dining experiences in the city. So go ahead, share your favorite spots and let’s celebrate the diverse and delicious Indian cuisine in Baltimore.