13 Best Indian Food Restaurants in Toronto - Curry, Naan & More

Are you excited to explore some amazing indian food in Toronto? Get ready, because we’re about to check out the 13 best Indian restaurants in the city!

From spicy curries to soft naan bread, Toronto has a ton of tasty Indian dishes that will feel like a trip to another country.

Why did we pick these 13 places? We chose these spots because they each have something special to offer. Get ready to find your new favorite eatery and maybe even learn a bit about Indian food while you’re at it. Let’s get started!

Leela Indian Food Bar in downtown Toronto is a must-try if you're looking for real Indian flavors. The restaurant has a cool, laid-back vibe with its modern brick walls, making it a great spot to enjoy some unique dishes that stay true to traditional Indian cooking.

When it comes to appetizers, you can't skip the Samosa Chaat. It's a fun dish made with crispy samosas topped with chickpeas, tangy tamarind sauce, spicy green sauce, creamy yogurt, diced onions, and crunchy bits called sev.

Another great choice is the Vegetable Pakoras, which are delicious potato and onion fritters served with house-made sauces and sprinkled with cilantro.

For the main courses, Butter Chicken is a standout. It’s tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce with spices like garam masala and fenugreek.

The Chicken Kadhai, made with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, is also really popular. If you're into lamb, the Lamb Roganjosh has a rich gravy made with yogurt and spices that's hard to resist.

Leela also has some fantastic vegetarian dishes. The Palak Paneer features fresh paneer in a spiced spinach sauce.

If you're a fan of biryani, you’ll love the Chicken Biryani, a fragrant rice dish with marinated chicken and spices. There’s also a Vegetable Biryani that has mixed veggies, cottage cheese, and fresh herbs mixed in.

Don’t forget about the Indian Street Food! Bhel Puri is a fun mix of crispy rice, onion, potatoes, and a blend of sweet and spicy flavors, topped with raw mango and cilantro.

Leela is also famous for its fresh naan bread and flaky laccha paratha. Popular dishes like Bhindi Masala, Navratna Korma, and Veg Biryani are highly recommended.

Located in the heart of Toronto, Dil Se Indian Restaurant & Bar is a special place that opened in December 2019.

The kitchen is led by Mani Panwar, the Head Chef and Owner, who has over 25 years of experience in cooking.

Mani's love for cooking is clear in every dish he makes, especially his famous Chicken Kamasutra, which has won several awards.

Dil Se has a menu that combines classic cooking methods with new ideas. You can choose to eat in the restaurant, take your food to go, or even have it delivered.

Some popular menu items include the Paneer Tikka Trio and delicious Thali options, which come with Basmati rice, naan, salad, dessert, and a drink, available for both vegetarians and meat lovers.

If you're in the mood for a cozy, traditional Punjabi meal, be sure to try the Lahori Paneer Tikka and Chicken Tikka Masala.

One of the standout dishes is the Chef's Special Chicken Lababdar, which features tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce.

Other favorites include Chicken Biryani, Lamb Curry, and fluffy Garlic Naan. For dessert, you should definitely try the Malai Kulfi and Mukhvas.

Dil Se is also family-friendly, offering milder dishes for kids and homemade chutneys to enhance your meal. With easy parking and cozy decor, it's an affordable spot perfect for any occasion.

Located in the lively Kensington Market, Rikki Tikki is a fantastic spot for anyone looking for real Indian food with a fresh twist.

The vibe at Rikki Tikki is a cool mix of cozy and stylish, making it a great place for a laid-back dinner or a small gathering with friends.

The seating is spacious, and the bar is well-stocked, so you can kick back and relax. The menu is filled with both classic and modern dishes.

If you’re into spicy food, definitely try the tandoori dishes and chili paneer. The Hyderabad chicken curry and braised lamb shank are rich and full of flavor, and the garlic naan is perfect for soaking up all that tasty sauce.

Don’t miss out on unique drinks like Patiala Shahi and Indian Roadside Lemon Soda, which add a fun twist to your meal.

The staff at Rikki Tikki are another reason to love this place. They’re friendly, attentive, and ready to help with any dietary needs you might have, like if you're avoiding dairy or gluten.

You’ll also get complimentary cumin crackers and poppadoms to start your meal. Popular dishes like chicken tikka masala, lamb biryani, aloo Gobi, and butter chicken poutine are all bursting with rich flavors. And for dessert, don’t skip the Malai Kulfi and Rabdi—they're amazing.

The restaurant itself is clean and well-decorated, both inside and on the patio, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

There’s a minimum dining charge of $25 per person, but the quality of the food makes it totally worth it.

By Aanch is like the younger, cooler sibling of “Aanch-Modernistic Indian Cuisine.” It’s a fun mix of traditional Indian recipes with a modern touch, all thanks to Chef Sudhanshu Kumar.

They create dishes that are not only delicious but also look amazing, using spices they grind themselves and a variety of regional cooking techniques.

The menu at By Aanch is like a food adventure. Some of the standout items include Padi shots, a tikka trio, mushroom truffle naan, goat curry, and the must-try mango kulfi dessert.

What really makes By Aanch special isn’t just the food but also the outstanding service. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive, always ready to help.

For special occasions, they often surprise guests with free desserts, which makes your celebration even more special.

By Aanch also stands out during events like the Little Italy festival, where their booth is super popular. They serve fun and creative dishes like shots and samosas that keep festival-goers coming back.

The staff, including managers and chefs, often interact with guests to make sure everyone has a great experience.

The restaurant is also committed to catering to different dietary needs, which is fantastic for anyone with specific preferences, especially vegans and vegetarians.

Bawara is a hidden gem in Toronto that combines Indian and Hakka Chinese food, making it a great place for anyone who loves unique flavors.

This restaurant is known for its authentic dishes, as well as options that are vegan and gluten-free, plus they offer amazing catering services.

When you check out the menu, you’ll find a bunch of tasty dishes. One highlight is the Tandoori Gobi, which is cauliflower marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic, and special spices.

If you’re in the mood for variety, the Bawara Tandoori Meat Platter is perfect. It features Tandoori Macchi (fish), Tandoori Chicken, and more, giving you a taste of different meats in one dish.

For something different, try the Tandoori Soya Chaap made from soy and marinated in a creamy mix of cashews and almonds. Seafood fans will love the Tandoori Salmon, which is fresh Atlantic salmon marinated in yogurt and spices.

The Peshawari Lamb Chops, marinated with raw papaya and spices, are also a favorite. Don’t forget to check out the Reshmi Malai Tikka and Hariyali Tikka, which also come in paneer or chicken options, each with a special marinade.

Besides Indian food, they serve Hakka Chinese dishes like Chilli Hakka Noodles and Triple Schezwan Rice.

Popular vegetarian choices include Crispy Chilli Paneer, Veg Hakka Chow Mein, and Veg Manchurian. Regulars rave about the Crispy Chilli Paneer and the dessert called Firnee.

Cleanliness and hygiene are really important at Bawara, and the service is quick and welcoming. They’re known for accommodating different dietary needs and spice preferences.

Located in Downtown Toronto, Aafrien Indian Restaurant is a fantastic place for anyone who wants to enjoy real Indian food.

They offer not just a sit-down dining experience, but also options for takeout and catering, making it a great choice for any event.

Aafrien is known for its modern Tandoori cooking, a style that dates back over 500 years. They focus on using fresh ingredients and flavorful spices to make their own special tandoori dishes that will really impress your taste buds.

The atmosphere at Aafrien is both classy and welcome, with cozy brick walls that make it a nice spot for casual meals or special celebrations. They also have vegan options and free Wi-Fi, so there’s something for everyone.

When it comes to the food, Aafrien delivers. You can find a wide range of Indian dishes, including curries, grilled meats, and tandoori items.

Their food tastes like it's straight from India, and the service is excellent, with friendly staff who make sure you have a great time.

Some dishes you definitely need to try are Chicken 65, Tandoori Chicken, and the famous Butter Chicken. If you enjoy lentils, don’t miss the Dal Makhani.

For lamb lovers, Lamb Madras and Lamb Roganjosh are delicious choices. Vegetarians will be happy with options like Paneer Butter Masala and Vegetable Handi.

For starters, samosas, Gobi 65 (fried cauliflower), and papdi chaat are all highly recommended. Don’t forget to try the naan, especially the garlic naan and chili garlic naan, which get a lot of praise.

The Grand Indian Dining in Downtown Toronto is where traditional Indian food meets modern dining styles.

Their goal is to serve authentic and creative Indian dishes made with high-quality ingredients, and they do an amazing job!

When you walk into The Grand Indian Dining, you're welcomed by a warm and beautifully decorated space that feels cozy and inviting. It's the perfect spot for a nice meal with your loved ones.

Now, let’s get to the food, which is where the real excitement is. The menu is packed with delicious options.

Their garlic naan is famous for being great for scooping up every bit of their creamy Butter Chicken Bowl. If you want to try something unique, the Manchurian Gobi is a must-have.

Vegetarians will find plenty of tasty choices like the Malai Paneer Kofta and Paneer Tikka. And if you love rice dishes, the Chicken Biriyani is a hit.

The prices are fair, and you can really taste the quality in every bite. The owners often check in to make sure everything is just right, which adds a nice personal touch.

It's no surprise that both locals and visitors love this place. If you're looking for fantastic Indian food in Toronto, The Grand Indian Dining should definitely be on your list!

Pukka is a standout spot in Toronto’s lively Indian food scene. Upon entering, you find a stylish place with exposed brick walls where you can share modern Indian dishes with friends or family.

The menu at Pukka is a fun mix of classic Indian flavors with a fresh twist. There are lighter dishes that still taste amazing, and you’ll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices here, so everyone can enjoy a meal.

Some must-tries include the Pukka Chaat salad, crispy Pakoras, and delicious Lamb Lollipops. If seafood is your thing, don’t miss the Boatman's Fish & Prawn Curry.

The drink menu is just as cool, featuring ginger lemonade and unique cocktails inspired by Indian flavors, like the Lady Grey and Bombay Sour.

Each dish is beautifully presented, looking as good as it tastes, and the portions are generous yet reasonably priced, giving you great bang for your buck.

The service at Pukka is top-notch, with friendly staff making sure you have everything you need. The owner often stops by, adding that personal touch that makes dining here feel special.

Pukka also makes it easy with nearby parking and early bird specials, perfect for any occasion. They even offer catering for events, so you can bring a taste of Pukka to your parties.

Mehfill Indian Cuisine is one of those awesome places you discover and never want to leave. It’s perfect for anyone who loves real Indian flavors.

With a menu that has lots of vegetarian options, it’s a dream for veggie fans. Their lamb curry with saffron rice? It’s a perfect combo!

The atmosphere at Mehfill is warm and cozy, making you feel right at home. The service is fantastic—waiters really go out of their way to make sure everyone is happy.

There’s so much to love about Mehfill’s menu. You have to try the Chicken Chilli Momos, they’re packed with flavor in every bite.

Then there’s the Paneer Lababdar, which is creamy and delicious. If you’re into rice dishes, the Veg Biryani is amazing. Each dish is not just tasty but also looks great, making it tough to choose a favorite.

For those who like tandoori, the Tandoori Chicken is amazing. It’s marinated in a yummy yogurt sauce and grilled just right. Vegetarians will enjoy the Eggplant Patiala, which has a really nice mix of spices.

They’re really good at accommodating special diets and have a nice drink menu to go with the food. Some popular picks include the Dal Makhni, Chilli Paneer, and the delicious Garlic Butter Naan.

Mehfill is conveniently located with easy parking, making it a great choice for a night out. The friendly owner adds to the warm atmosphere, making every visit special.

If you're in Toronto and want to try some Indian food with a modern twist, Barkat is definitely worth a visit.

Let’s talk about what makes Barkat special. Their menu takes you on a tasty journey through India’s diverse foods. Their main dishes are packed with flavors.

You can enjoy the creamy Dal Makhani or the flavorful Tawa Chaap Masala, which is perfect for vegans.

If brunch is what you’re after, you’re in for a treat. Barkat serves halal brunch on weekends from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, featuring tasty options like biryani boxes, thalis, and special combo meals, all made with the best ingredients.

One of the best things about Barkat is their outdoor seating area. It’s located near Trinity Bellwoods and the CN Tower, providing a peaceful patio where you can enjoy your food while taking in the lively city atmosphere.

Inside, Barkat has a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s cozy, nicely decorated, and perfect for special celebrations, casual meet-ups, or even a romantic dinner.

People often talk about the service at Barkat. The staff is friendly, professional, and ready to help with any special requests or dietary needs.

If Toronto had a little piece of Delhi, it would definitely be Delhiites, a popular spot for tasty Indian street food.

This family-run restaurant brings the exciting flavors of Delhi right to your table, and you don’t even need to fly for 14 hours to enjoy it!

The fun starts at the Chaat Corner, where the Aloo Chaat is a fan favorite. It features crispy fried potatoes mixed with tangy tamarind and mint sauces, topped with fresh cilantro.

There’s also the Chaat Papdi, which is a crunchy treat made with fried dough, chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, and lots of spices.

Next up are the Shawarma and Wraps, where Delhiites offers a bunch of tasty choices. The Tandoori Chicken Shawarma and Chicken Kebab Shawarma are both wrapped in warm flatbreads and filled with juicy, flavorful meats.

You can’t visit Delhiites without trying their famous momoss, which are steamed dumplings that come in flavors like butter chicken and paneer makhni.

Other yummy options include dahi bhalle (a snack made with yogurt), chickpea bowls, goat biryani, and veggie noodles.

With real flavors, big portions, and prices that won’t break the bank, it’s easy to see why this place is a local favorite.

Raahi Modern Indian Kitchen & Bar in Midtown Toronto is a great place to go if you’re in the mood for real Indian food. It’s known for its tasty dishes and friendly service.

The portion sizes are just right, and the prices are fair. You can find lots of different options on the menu, including favorites like Tikka, samosas, butter chicken wraps, and paneer tikka masala.

The vibe of the restaurant is chill, with a nice noise level, making it perfect for family dinners or a laid-back night out.

Raahi has something for everyone, offering both vegetarian and meat options. Vegetarians often enjoy dishes like eggplant curry and saag paneer, while meat lovers go for tandoori chicken, garlic naan, and tarka dal.

If you’re organizing an event, Raahi also provides catering services that people really like. They have a range of options to meet different dietary needs, and their team is known for being prompt and efficient, so everything goes smoothly.

For those eating in, Raahi has a variety of main courses that will fill you up. The dal makhani, kadhai chicken, and butter naan are all popular choices.

They even have a kid's menu, making it a family-friendly spot. And for adults, there’s a good selection of cocktails and Indian beers.

With its authentic flavors, attentive service, and a nice atmosphere, it’s no surprise that both locals and visitors highly recommend Raahi.

Located in Toronto, Indian Desire is a special place that honors the diverse flavors of Indian food.

The idea behind it is simple – food can bring people together and create memorable experiences. In the kitchen, you'll find a mix of traditional recipes and modern twists, with each dish made with care and creativity.

When you walk into Indian Desire, it feels like stepping into a warm and welcoming space. The atmosphere is cozy, and the decor reflects the colorful culture of India.

The menu is a tasty mix of classic and modern Indian meals.

Some popular dishes are the juicy Tandoori Chicken, super tender Galouti Kabab, and the rich Dal Makhani. Be sure to try their buttery Naan, flavorful Butter Chicken, or savory Saag Paneer.

Indian Desire also shines when it comes to service. The staff is friendly and always ready to help with recommendations to make your dining experience even better.

To make your meal even better, you can pair it with one of their amazing cocktails or drinks. They have a happy hour menu, and it’s a good idea to reserve a table to ensure you get a spot.

And, there’s free street parking after 9 AM, and the place is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy the great food.

Open until midnight every day, Indian Desire is the perfect place to treat yourself to authentic Indian dishes that look as good as they taste.

Toronto has a ton of amazing Indian food places that are full of exciting flavors! From the spicy dishes at Leela Indian Food Bar to the fresh and modern meals at RAAHI Modern Indian Kitchen & Bar, there's something for everyone.

We chose these 13 restaurants because they each serve something special and tasty. You can enjoy classics like naan and biryani at Mehfill Indian Cuisine or try some fun street food at Delhiites.

And don’t forget, ActiviFinder Toronto can help you find even more cool things to do and yummy places to eat. Get out there and enjoy all the delicious food that Toronto has to offer!