Looking for the best Indian restaurant Fort Lauderdale? This local’s is designed to swiftly direct you to the eateries celebrated for their outstanding Indian cuisine. Here, you’ll find the essence of India’s rich culinary traditions served right in the vibrant heart of South Florida.
While it’s not my go-to cuisine, (I prefer Italian and will never pass up a good Mexican meal or top notch steakhouse,) I do end up eating Indian food. Again, it’s not really my thing, but over 23 years of living here, I’ve given the old college try to some new things and expanded my horizons, so this documents my journeys for any foodies out there seeking this cuisine.
The Indian Food Scene in Ft Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale boasts a diverse Indian culinary scene with a range of eateries like Royal India Restaurant and Singh’s Roti Delight, offering specialties from naan and roti to traditional and modern Indian dishes.
- The Indian Harbor is a top dining destination with a chic, intimate atmosphere, accommodating spice preferences, private dining for events, and unique vegetarian dishes like Paneer Makhani.
- Strip malls in Fort Lauderdale hide authentic Indian culinary gems and home-style South Indian food; meanwhile, services like Uber Eats provide convenient delivery options for Indian cuisine.
Exploring Indian Cuisine in Fort Lauderdale
As a foodie’s paradise, Fort Lauderdale is home to a vibrant and diverse Indian dining scene, offering a wealth of flavors and culinary experiences. One of the crown jewels is the Royal India Restaurant, recognized for offering the ‘Best Indian Food in South Florida’. Another local favorite is Singh’s Roti Delight, known for its large portions, delicious food including traditional roti, and quick service.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some restaurants that offer a delightful dining experience with their menu featuring Indian cuisine:
- 7 Flavors: Known for its naan, tea, mango juice, and desserts like carrot halwa.
- Nirala Sweets & Restaurant: Tops the list with diners enjoying a diverse selection of delectable Indian dishes.
- Zaika Weston: Hailed as the ultimate destination for lovers of Indian cuisine in Sunrise, located near Fort Lauderdale.
Some popular Indian restaurants in the area include:
- Saalan Restaurant: known for its amazing service and offering fresh, authentic Indian food
- Moksha Indian Brasserie: dazzles with modern Indian cuisine in a contemporary setting, including dishes like lamb biryani, crispy samosas, and flavorful garlic naan
- Deccan Spice Pompano: blends modern and traditional ambiance with a varied menu that includes a weekend lunch buffet
- Sajna Indian Cuisine: caters to a range of palates by providing full-flavored dishes with comfortably palatable spice levels.
Among these, Saalan Restaurant is often considered the best Indian restaurant in the area.
The Indian Harbor: A Local Favorite
Among the myriad of Indian dining options, The Indian Harbor stands out as a local favorite. It features an intimate, modern luxe atmosphere with chic lighting, crisp white walls, and royal blue velvet banquettes that capture the essence of India. Their menu offers a variety of entrees that come with basmati rice and allows patrons to tailor their spice levels from mild to hot, catering to a range of palates and preferences.
One of the vegetarian highlights of The Indian Harbor is the Paneer Makhani, a dish where cubes of cottage cheese are cooked in a rich tomato buttery creamy sauce, offering a modern twist on traditional flavors. This unique twist to traditional Indian flavors is what makes The Indian Harbor a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Menu Highlights at The Indian Harbor
The Indian Harbor offers a flavourful journey through its menu. Popular dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala, a ubiquitous British-Indian creation, and Butter Chicken, known for its creamy tomato sauce, appeal to a wide range of palates with options for custom spice levels.
But it’s not just about the chicken. Tandoori specialties at The Indian Harbor, such as Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, and Lamb Chops, are expertly marinated and cooked in a traditional clay oven, featuring the unique charred flavor Tandoori dishes are famed for. Dishes like Lamb Rogan Josh and Goan Fish Curry reflect the restaurant’s dedication to showcasing a diverse range of Indian regional cuisines.
To complete the dinner dining experience, a selection of Indian breads such as Garlic Naan and Peshawari Naan is offered, perfect for sopping up the rich sauces of the entrees.
Private Dining and Events
Beyond offering a delightful dining experience, The Indian Harbor also caters to private events. They offer a private venue for events with a capacity of up to 50 people, accommodating various occasions including:
- birthdays
- weddings
- corporate meetings
- rehearsal dinners
To make each event unique and personalized, The Indian Harbor offers the following services:
- Customized menus to meet the unique needs of each event
- A special banquet menu featuring multiple courses with some of the restaurant’s signature dishes
- Dedicated staff to assist with the planning and execution of events
- A personalized and memorable experience for hosts and guests
Authentic Spices and Flavors in a Strip Mall Setting
While Fort Lauderdale’s bustling streets are an attraction of their own, the city’s strip malls hide culinary gems that offer an authentic taste of Indian cuisine. These unassuming establishments serve home-style South Indian food, offering a unique dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Don’t let their location fool you. These hidden gems are known for their authenticity, bringing the rich flavors and spices of Indian cuisine to your plate. So, the next time you find yourself in a strip mall, don’t hesitate to step into one of these establishments and let your taste buds embark on an Indian culinary adventure.
Bombay Darbar: The Heartbeat of Miami’s Indian Cuisine
Let’s take a quick detour to Miami, where Bombay Darbar boasts an awesome atmosphere that blends quaintness with a vibrant party vibe, paralleling the lively culture it represents. Noted for its:
- authenticity
- excellent service
- quality of its food
- dining experience
the restaurant frequently receives commendations from customers.
Guests at Bombay Darbar can indulge in a wide array of Indian culinary delights, such as:
- Samosas
- Mango kulfi
- Lamb rogan josh
- Thalis
- Tandoori chicken wings
- Mango chicken curry
- Saag Gosht
The Mumbai-inspired establishment is enveloped in a charming atmosphere punctuated by modern art and chandeliers, serving up classic Punjabi cuisine alongside a discerning selection of beverages.
A Taste of North India in South Florida
Now, let’s head back to Fort Lauderdale to explore the taste of North India in South Florida. The Indian Harbor, for instance, offers a Tandoori Mixed Grill which includes tandoori chicken, lamb chops, shrimp, fish, seekh kebab, and chicken kebab, all prepared in a clay oven with traditional spices. But if you love spicy food, you might want to try their Vindaloo dishes renowned for their high heat level, made with a potent blend of vinegar, garlic, and hot spices.
Arun’s Indian Kitchen keeps the essence of Northern Indian cuisine alive in South Florida with a variety of chicken and lamb dishes, vegetarian items, and seafood options, all thoughtfully prepared. Bombay Darbar delights with Lamb Pasanda, a boneless lamb creation in a creamy cashew sauce that leaves a memorable taste, while Rishtedar showcases dishes like lamb vindaloo and Mughlai-inspired chicken korma.
Ayesha Indian Fine Dining enhances the Northern Indian palette with chef specials like fish infused with ginger in a coconut curry sauce and Nilgiri lamb khorma, offering a unique taste composition. With these restaurants bringing North India to South Florida, experiencing the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine has never been easier.
Southern Delights: Dosa to Idli
While North Indian flavors thrive in South Florida, the culinary delights of South India are not to be missed. Fort Lauderdale is home to several spots offering authentic dosas, a staple of South Indian cuisine known for staying true to traditional flavors. Among the variety of dosas, the Rava Masala Dosa stands out as a tasty option, while the humungous size of the Masala Dosa comes accompanied by three distinctive dips.
For those seeking spicier flavors, Chilli Idli is recommended as a fiery twist on the classic South Indian steamed rice cake. The diverse South Indian menu extends beyond dosas and idlis to include vadas and more, showcasing the full spectrum of the region’s rice-based delicacies. So, if you’re in the mood for a taste of South India, these restaurants in Fort Lauderdale have got you covered.
Vegetarian and Vegan Indian Eats
For those on a plant-based diet, Fort Lauderdale doesn’t disappoint. Woodlands Pure Vegetarian Indian Cuisine offers a completely vegetarian menu, including North to South Indian dishes and Indo-Chinese fusions. They also provide the convenience of delivery through popular delivery services for their high-quality food and service appreciated by patrons.
Other restaurants like The Indian Harbor and Arun’s Indian Kitchen also include vegetarian options on their menus, offering dishes rich in traditional Indian spices and flavors. Some examples of vegetarian dishes you can find at these restaurants include:
- Chana masala
- Vegetable biryani
- Palak paneer
- Aloo gobi
- Dal makhani
AIK Taco Masala in Lauderhill introduces a vegan-friendly twist with their chana masala that can be savored in Indian-style tacos or rice bowls. So, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to try something new, these Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale have got you covered. For more vegan options, visit this page.
The Convenience of Indian Food Delivery in FL
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience matters. And Fort Lauderdale has that covered with Indian food delivery options. Services like Uber Eats make it easy to enjoy Indian cuisine from the comforts of your home or office, accommodating those who prefer home dining or are too busy to dine out.
Uber Eats offers the following features for Indian food delivery in Fort Lauderdale:
- A rating system to help customers select highly rated Indian food delivery options
- The ability to check the service hours of restaurants
- Budget-friendly options marked with a single “$”
- Seamless online payment management
- Free delivery for Uber One members
With these features, getting Indian food delivered in Fort Lauderdale has never been easier.
Sip and Savor: Indian Restaurants with a Bar
If you’re looking for an Indian dining experience with a twist, Fort Lauderdale has got you covered with Indian restaurants that feature full-service bars. The Indian Harbor, for instance, elevates the dining experience with amenities like a full bar/lounge, providing an elegant space for enjoying drinks. Their waterfront dining adds a unique atmosphere, complementing the culinary experience with scenic views.
Bombay Darbar is another restaurant that offers a sipping and savoring experience. Its beautiful decor, featuring chandeliers and modern art, creates a nice atmosphere for guests to sip and savor their drinks. So, whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day or to celebrate a special occasion, these Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale can offer a memorable experience.
Parking and Accessibility Info
When it comes to dining out, easy parking and accessibility are key. Most Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale offer:
- Adjoining parking lots
- Street parking options
- Complimentary valet parking services (e.g. The Indian Harbor)
- Accessible parking at most locations
Restaurants often prioritize accessibility to accommodate all guests.
In areas where parking is limited, some restaurants have agreements with nearby parking facilities to provide additional parking spaces for their patrons.
Summary
From the diverse flavors of North and South Indian cuisine to the convenience of food delivery and the charm of full-service bars, Fort Lauderdale’s Indian dining scene offers a rich tapestry of culinary experiences. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new flavors, a vegetarian seeking plant-based options, or someone simply craving a taste of India, Fort Lauderdale offers a dining experience to meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the popular Indian dishes at The Indian Harbor?
The popular Indian dishes at The Indian Harbor include Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Chicken, Tandoori specialties, and Indian breads. You won’t be disappointed by the variety!
Are there vegetarian and vegan options available in Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available in Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, such as Woodlands Pure Vegetarian Indian Cuisine, The Indian Harbor, Arun’s Indian Kitchen, and AIK Taco Masala in Lauderhill. Enjoy your meal!
Can I get Indian food delivered in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, you can get Indian food delivered in Fort Lauderdale through services like Uber Eats. Enjoy your meal!
Are there Indian restaurants with bars in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, both The Indian Harbor and Bombay Darbar in Fort Lauderdale have full-service bars available.
What are the parking options at Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale?
You can typically expect adjoining parking lots or street parking options at Indian restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, with some offering complimentary valet parking services as well. Enjoy your meal!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
