Top 5 Must-Try Dishes at an Indian Restaurant

If you had to pick one cuisine that every food lover should try once in a lifetime, Indian would top every American’s list. The mouth-smacking and diverse Indian cuisine has had the global audience going gaga over it. Imbibing the long and tumultuous culture, you will also find the essence of East and West colonization in every item.

The interesting part about Indian food is that each dish has its unique taste and texture. There is a signature aroma of spices that is hard to miss. From iconic curries to delicious breads, the options are never-ending. 

So, if you are planning on hanging out in an Indian Restaurant in Queens, New York, we have some excellent dishes as suggestions for satisfying your craving.

How Americans Fell in Love With Indian Cuisine?

Indian food was not much talked about back in the day as it is today. As the immigration of Indians began in the 70’s and 80’s, small mom and pop shops opened up providing the classic naan, dal, and tikka masala. When curiosity grew and word of mouth spread, Americans started to discover the depth and variety of Indian cuisine.

Nowadays, food bloggers, Instagrammers, and cooking shows have started to advertise more different Indian dishes. The diversity, flavour, and comfort are the few factors that excite Americans to try them out.

Iconic Indian Dishes Loved by Americans

Here is a list of the top Indian dishes that Americans fawn over:

1. Butter Chicken ( Murgh Makhani )

Let’s start with a crowd favorite. Butter Chicken is creamy, rich, and slightly smoky. The tender pieces of chicken are marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor, and finished in a velvety tomato-based sauce with butter and cream.

It’s the dish that bridges the gap between first-timers and foodies. Pair it with naan or basmati rice, and you’re in for a comforting ride.

Fun fact: It was invented in Delhi in the 1950s, using leftover tandoori chicken.

2. Samosas

Samosas are crispy, golden triangles, perfect as an appetizer. Stuffed with a mix of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes lentils or minced meat, samosas are crunchy on the outside and soft inside. You can dip them in mint or tamarind chutney and experience an explosion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. 

3. Tandoori Chicken

It’s hard to miss the bright red hue of Tandoori Chicken when a tempting plate containing it is passing by. This dish is marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, and a mix of spices like cayenne, turmeric, and garam masala. Then it’s cooked in a clay oven (tandoor) at high heat, which gives it a charred, smoky flavor. You will notice Americans who love BBQ recommending it. Many people who love Indian cuisine have been renting out event space in Queens within the vicinity of Indian restaurants.

4. Paneer Tikka

For vegetarians—and honestly, for everyone—Paneer Tikka is a dish that is a must-have. Chunks of Indian cottage cheese (paneer) are marinated in a spiced yogurt mix and grilled to perfection. Often served with bell peppers and onions, it’s a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s also a great introduction to Indian vegetarian cuisine, which is incredibly rich and diverse.

5. Chole Bhature

This is the ultimate comfort food. Chole (spiced chickpeas) are served with bhature, which are large, fluffy, deep-fried bread. It’s a North Indian breakfast staple but has gained popularity all over the world. It’s a plate filled with multiple flavors. Just don’t plan anything physically demanding afterward—this dish fills you up.

How Rapidly Are Indian Restaurants Growing?

The recent food industry has seen a rapid increase in the number of Indian restaurants in the past two decades. Although it is few in number as compared to Chinese and Italian restaurants, Indian cuisine is considered amongst the fastest growing ethnic food category.

Cities like Houston and San Francisco were among those that saw plenty of Indian dining options. Now, Smaller towns are catching up to speed. Rise in delivery apps and vegetarianism has also helped Indian cuisine create a market for itself. 

A Few Pro Tips for Indian Food First-Timers

• Don’t fear the spice. 

Not all Indian food is super hot. You can always ask your server to make it mild or medium.

• Use your hands. 

In India, it’s common to eat with your hands, especially when scooping curry with naan. It’s messy—in a good way.

• Share everything. 

Indian meals are meant to be enjoyed family-style. Order a few dishes and dive in together.

• Try the sides.

Don’t overlook the chutneys, pickles, and raita (yogurt dip). They’re flavor bombs.

Indian Food All the Way: Conclusion

Indian food creates a beautiful blend of traditional spices, warmth, and soul. On one hand, it brings in adventure, and on the other, provides comfort to the taste buds. This makes it a rare combination to go for. So, the next time you visit an Indian Restaurant in Queens, New York, do check out the dishes mentioned above and begin your journey of food obsession.