Indian food evokes a certain vibrant nostalgia. Maybe it’s the aromatic spice markets, maybe it’s that unforgettable trip to Rajasthan, or maybe it’s Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Either way, when the craving strikes, nothing satisfies like a proper Indian banquet. Arlington’s options are plentiful, but with this list—featuring everything from fiery curry houses and excellent tandoori spots to handmade dosa joints, standout biryanis, and $6 mango lassis—you’re in expert hands.
Minerva Express
$$ | (703) 841-9626 | WEBSITE
Maybe the $12 Palak Paneer with rice will make you think, ‘Minerva Express gets it’. Or the generous scoop of fragrant basmati that arrives promptly with the chickpeas and lentils. Or the convenient stash of unique Indian spices and snacks that comes later. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite from the grocery store counter for a takeout lunch, or hunkering down with a meal that’s hard to put down, so much about this Arlington Indian food gem is easy to fall totally in love with.
Delhi Dhaba
$$ | (703) 524-0008 | WEBSITE
Like a Bollywood star on opening night, Delhi Dhaba is vibrant. A cozy Arlington spot with warm lighting and rustic wooden tables, this place specializes in cooking Indian food with generous portions, with elements of classic comfort thrown in. Get a seat at the welcoming bar with your favorite friends, order the outrageous lamb chops and a bowl of the chicken makhni, then ask the server to bring you a bottomless mimosa.
Masala Express
$ | (703) 216-7460 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in one of those unassuming Arlington strip malls where you’re just as likely to find a dry cleaner as you are a surprisingly authentic eatery, is Masala Express. It’s a cozy restaurant with simple, functional furnishings, that makes delicious regional Indian food. The compact space is filled with regulars picking up takeout orders and debating a second order of Aloo Gobi. The menu isn’t huge and focuses on classics, and you’re best off trying a bit of everything.
Bollywood Bistro Express
$ | (571) 312-1071 | WEBSITE
The food court setting, bustling lunch crowd, and families sharing Tandoori Chicken bowls—Bollywood Bistro Express makes us feel satisfied and content inside. A side of garlic naan helps too. At this Arlington spot, the mood is set for spice-fueled compliments over quick service, and the aromas will transport you back to your favorite street food stall in Delhi. Even if, like us, your stall had plastic chairs and you grew up in a suburban strip mall.
Mehran Restaurant
$ | (703) 312-4888 | WEBSITE
Mehran is that friend who always has the best stories—genuinely warm, but never overbearing. Plates of food are delivered to families sharing tandoori chicken, and naan is passed around tables dissecting beef seekh kabob piece by piece. Generous tendencies emerge as you guard, sorry share, the excellent dishes at this Arlington spot. Especially the Chicken Karahi, which is one of the best in Virginia.
Soca Fusion
$ | (703) 483-2004 | WEBSITE
A small, simple Indian takeout spot that feels like a neighborhood secret, Soca Fusion is all warmth and “how are you?” from the talkative staff, and excellent flavors from the kitchen. A piping hot butter chicken is perfect to start at the unassuming Arlington gem, and we’re big fans of the lamb curry. In the barebones dining area, regulars chat with servers who greet them by name and friends lean over tables to share bites of chickpea casserole.
Kohinoor Dhaba
$$ | (703) 778-5005 | WEBSITE
Kohinoor Dhaba is essential. When are people not going to want to eat that standout butter chicken and this legendary garlic naan? Or the must-try gulab jamun? Especially with fresh, delicious food before them, and helpful staff around them. This richly flavored (and reasonably priced) Arlington restaurant is one of the best for Indian food in the area—and it’s still a favorite. You should know about their excellent lunch specials and wide variety of vegetarian dishes, too.
RASA
$ | (703) 888-0925 | WEBSITE
For fresh ingredients, generous portions, and build-your-own bowls you’ll want to finish entirely, RASA is your top choice in Arlington. This Indian restaurant serves great food. They’re accommodating with dietary restrictions, have excellent vegan options, and offer everything from flavorful curries to mango lassi. The friendly staff and Leslie’s hospitality also make this an ideal spot for a lunch break that should end with a satisfied smile.
Curry & Clay Oven
$ | (703) 215-7913 | WEBSITE
An Indian restaurant in a strip mall in Arlington sounds like the makings of a bland chain experience. But at Curry & Clay Oven, the aroma of spices drowns out any strip-mall sterility, staff are happy to swoon over an excellent chicken tikka masala with you, and diners release their grip on phones, swapping them for plates of buttery naan. Sit at a booth if you’re coming as a two, or the warm, clay-oven-accented dining room is more group-friendly.
Spice Kraft Indian Bistro
$$ | (703) 527-5666 | WEBSITE
Spice Kraft’s cozy dining space feels consistently lively. There are groups settling into tables for dinners that feature salmon tikka masala; friends splitting the Naan Flight appetizer; and solo diners ordering one entree, one side of that. The Arlington spot is warm and welcoming, with flavorful, satisfying dishes—like gluten-free curries and vegetarian options—that are just a little inventive. Don’t overlook the Bollywood playlist and attentive, allergy-aware service.