We love an Indian dinner date. Not because we secretly believe butter chicken might be an aphrodisiac or because the aroma of garam masala is basically Marvin Gaye to our noses, but because an Indian restaurant gives you so much more flexibility. If the date goes well you can linger over chai, and if it’s a hard pass you can be on your merry way after a single delicious dish. See, flexibility. And potentially, romance. Here are the best Indian restaurants in Cleveland that are perfect for a date.
Amba
$$$ | (216) 417-6718 | WEBSITE
You want your date to think you appreciate nuanced flavor profiles and you almost, maybe, definitely have some kind of refined palate. Go to Amba. This contemporary Indian restaurant in Cleveland looks like a cozy, sexy lounge owned by a culinary artist. Sit in the warm, inviting dining room, order a couple of their creative cocktails, and say something sophisticated like “These presentations have a real artistic feel, don’t you think?”.
Plus, if the date goes well you can transition into the tasting menu and those generous, nutritious portions.
Choolaah
$ | (216) 453-8444 | WEBSITE
Choolaah isn’t for quiet contemplation. We’d say this vibrant spot is more grab-and-go territory. When you already know you want something quick, fresh, and healthy without sacrificing flavor. As well as the self-serve counters, modern-cultural decor, and clean welcoming atmosphere, the bustling interior also feels exactly like somewhere that a delicious Indian-inspired meal might happen.
If you really want to make a good choice, head for the chicken tikka masala once your mango lassi needs are covered.
Indian Flame Restaurant
$ | (216) 791-5555 | WEBSITE
What isn’t this Cleveland spot good for? There’s not much. But one thing it’s not good for is making you want to grab takeout and leave. Which is why it’s the ideal place to bring someone you’re hoping to share a proper meal with. The warm lighting, cozy booths, and menu filled with things like Chicken Tikka Masala, Shahi Paneer, and that magical Tandoor Chicken all make for the perfect backdrop to an evening that will definitely (maybe) make you fall in love with Indian food.
Tandul
$$ | (216) 860-4530 | WEBSITE
All you know about this place is what the menu has told you. So basically, you know that they have a real thing for bold flavors and they once perfected the art of crispy chili potatoes. Tandul, in Cleveland, is a fitting spot for properly getting to know Indian cuisine.
Here’s the move: start with the Hot & Sour Soup at one of their cozy tables, move to the main dining area for the Mughlai Chicken, and if you really love it, round the meal off with sizzling Schezwan noodles and garlic naan at the central counter. The vibe is all cute lights and fusion energy, with prices that feel fair except maybe for that cheese garlic naan. The staff is quick and friendly, making sure your spice level is just right.
It’s a fun, tasty experience that leaves you with leftovers and a smile.
Cafe Everest
$ | (216) 476-2990 | WEBSITE
Spice levels, discussed. There you go, you’ve already got your conversation starter sorted. Cleveland’s Cafe Everest is cozy, welcoming, and very easy on the palate. Part-traditional and part-modern, this spot will work just as well for a quick bowl of lentil soup at the counter as it will for a leisurely family feast in their remodeled dining room.
The appetizers are also exceptional, so whether you’re dining solo or with a large group, be sure to get yourself some Vegetable Momo or Samosas before diving in. Just know that Cafe Everest offers surprisingly extensive options, so if things are going in the right direction, linger over aromatic Chicken Korma or flavorful Rajma Chawal.
The Great Indian Kitchen
$ | (216) 314-8591 | WEBSITE
There’s nothing authentic about settling for a generic curry house with watered-down sauces and pre-packaged naan. Because as much as people tell you to try the butter chicken, they’re all missing the point. Don’t just order the usual. Leave all the predictable Indian restaurant chains behind you and head to The Great Indian Kitchen. This little spot says ‘I know a thing or two about spices’.
Yes it can get busy at times but the warm atmosphere, generous portions, and attentive service give it a welcoming feel, and make it the kind of place where you’d want to hear all about their secret family recipe for that incredible Hyderabadi chicken dum biryani.
Himalayan Restaurant
$ | (216) 716-4500 | WEBSITE
If a restaurant’s name sounds like it could also be the title of a travel documentary about mountain adventures, then it’s a good place for a meal. That’s just logic. Or something. Anyway, Himalayan Restaurant falls into the above category. The atmosphere is comfortably welcoming and the food is authentic. If the flavors don’t transport you by the time you’ve finished your momo, take a drive around Cleveland.
Friends Circle Indian Eatery
$ | (216) 417-0221 | WEBSITE
Friends Circle is where you go when you want your friends to know that you’re like, really adventurous and own at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes. Oh and yes, you do appreciate authentic flavors, thanks for asking. This small and cute Indian eatery always has a great variety of dishes on the menu, proper home-style breakfast available, and enough vegetarian options for you to start up a conversation about your mutual love of butter masala chicken.
Heads up, there’s also a friendly staff that makes you feel appreciated.
Cleveland Tiffin
$ | (216) 220-7002 | WEBSITE
First impressions are important. That’s why you’re going to wear your stretchy pants for at least the first three visits to this potential favorite spot. But honestly, it’s pretty hard to make a bad first impression at Cleveland Tiffin. We’re talking warm lighting, vibrant spices on display, a cozy dining area, and exceptional butter chicken. If you’re looking to step things up, they have top Indian classics on offer. Did we mention the exceptional butter chicken?
Indian Delight | Cleveland, Ohio
$ | (216) 651-4007 | WEBSITE
Feeling uncertain? Well, one of our friends accidentally ordered the spiciest dish on the menu for their first visit and now they’re regulars. We know, it’s a culinary love story. And also, we hope it makes you feel better about your upcoming meal. No matter which dish you might choose, Indian Delight will still impress. A fail-safe favorite in restaurant form, this Cleveland spot serves some of the best Indian food in Ohio and it’s welcoming enough that you should always feel at home.
The friendly service and excellent panipuri make it worth visiting, while the chicken haleem and biryani are especially recommended. With great taste, generous portions, and reasonable prices around $15-25 per entree, you’re promised a scrumptious dining experience that should not be missed.
Cafe Tandoor
$$ | (216) 371-8500 | WEBSITE
We love Cafe Tandoor and not just because its name hints at the delicious tandoori specialties waiting inside. No, we love Cafe Tandoor for their excellent Chicken Tikka, collection of vegetarian options, and the welcoming atmosphere that feels even better than the exterior suggests. Anyone who would take us to this friendly and inviting spot on Cleveland’s east side would get a big thumbs-up from us, and probably a taste of their tender Lamb Biriyani too.
Just be aware that they offer great deals like half-price wine bottles on Wednesdays.