Curious about where to go for a great Indian meal in Houston? With the surge of interest in international cuisine in the United States, and especially for the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Indian cooking, restaurants are numerous and options can seem endless. Use this guide, showcasing some of Houston's most-beloved Indian restaurants, to help you find the Houston curry that's just right for you and yours.


Houston is a unique culinary destination in that it truly strives for innovative menus and cross-cultural themes. Exemplifying these qualities is The London Sizzler Tandoori Bar, conveniently located off the Southwest Freeway. The menu incorporates a variety of pan-European influences, all while focusing on the traditional dishes of Northern Indian cuisine. The Bar is open until 11:30 pm daily, allowing night owls to catch a laid-back bite of their favorite dishes. The Tandoori Wings are a specialty appetizer, and renowned for their perfect blend of spices. Enjoy a casual and friendly atmosphere; sports games are regularly on display, and diners can shoot a game or two of pool with friends for desert.


Centrally located and well-known for its "kitchen creativity," Indika boasts a modern, spacious ambience layered with traditional Indian elements. Rated one of the top five restaurants in Houston by Zagat's survey, and recognized as one of the best Indian restaurants nation-wide by Gourmet Magazine, Indika delivers impressive fusion dishes that earn raves from traditional eaters. While plates range from $21 - 30 each, the inexpensive bar bites menu paired with fun cocktails and quality spirits offer an experience that's easier on the wallet. Live music is featured each Saturday night, and once a month, diners can take Indika to their own kitchens with informative cooking classes.


Head down to Times Boulevard for a taste of Houston Press' Reader's Choice Award (2003) for Best Indian Restaurant. Shiva Indian Restaurant prides itself on the freshest possible ingredients, and has a passion for selecting the best vegetables available at Houston markets. Lively Northern Indian dishes include many Tandoori favorites, and the house specialty of Chicken Korma. An inexpensive lunch buffet is offered daily, and service is prompt and polite. Shiva is an excellent choice for catered affairs, creating beautiful and tasty presentations for events of all sizes.


Just off Highway 59 awaits Houston's favorite Indian buffet at Madras Pavilion. Variety takes center stage at Madras, where a multitude of inexpensive items dominate the menu and the buffet selection. Curries and cold salads are definite highlights, and the mango ice cream is highly recommended for sweet tooths. Finish it all off with a big cup of specialty Madras Coffee.


An excellent compromise for diners looking for dishes from all over the country is Pavani, at the Southwest Freeway and Arena Drive. Menu highlights include plates from both Southern and Northern Indian cuisine, and special attention is given to traditional preparation and presentation. While dinner choices are fairly inexpensive, the full range of Pavani's menu can be sampled at the weekday lunch buffet, which offers over 20 items. Friendly wait staff makes Pavani a great destination for families.


Whether you opt for a quick bite at a buffet with friends, or take your loved ones to a formal, elegant meal, your palate is sure to be pleased with these treasures of Houston's Indian restaurant scene.