Finding authentic Indian cuisine in Columbia can feel like navigating between generic curry houses and overly casual spots. But let us guide you—there’s a vibrant restaurant for every craving. Whether you’re seeking fiery vindaloo to share or delicate biryani for a quiet evening, these gems deliver flavor without pretense.
J&J’S CURRY AND BIRIYANI
$ | (803) 708-0814 | WEBSITE
Heads up: You might find yourself in a friendly debate over which chutney is best at J&J’s. This is a spot for committed food lovers, not diners looking for bland dishes better suited for a microwave than an authentic Indian kitchen. Tucked away in Columbia, J&J’s does most of the work for you, with vibrant aromas, a bustling atmosphere, and warm smiles as far as the eye can see.
You’re free to just be your hungry self over a cold Kingfisher beer and crispy veg samosas swimming in tamarind chutney and mint sauce. Split one of the massive Mixed Grill platters, then consider getting a nightcap and dessert at the Tuesday night buffet, the delicious spread just a few steps away.
Aroma of India
$ | (803) 807-9119 | WEBSITE
For a city that can only yearn for the Ganges, Columbia has a lot of great Indian spots. Aroma of India is one of them, nailing the classics and opting for warm lighting, soft music, booth seating, and a cozy dining room instead of a formal fine-dining setup. Check the menu for the evening’s standout dish, featuring the Dahl Makhani, reminiscent of a 5-star North Indian restaurant in South Africa, then double down on flavor with specialties like the Kadai Paneer or Chicken Curry with Garlic Naan.
When you’re done, keep the evening rolling with a chai or lassi at one of the many nearby cafes along the USC area.
Hyderabad House Indian Cuisine – Columbia
$ | (803) 888-6068 | WEBSITE
In a city where Indian restaurants often blend into sameness, Hyderabad House Indian Cuisine is a vibrant standout. The modest dining room has a dozen tables and plays Bollywood music at a gentle volume against a backdrop of colorful tapestries and hanging brass lamps. The focused menu of Hyderabadi specialties is equally authentic. We love the Vanjaram Fish Fry to start—it’s tender in texture and bold in spice, and it gives your glass of crisp, not-too-sweet mango lassi something to complement.
The aromatic Raju Gari Goat Pulao makes a hearty, satisfying main, and the juicy meat with fragrant rice is a perfect reason to finish with a soothing cup of digestion-helping masala chai.
Village of India
$ | (803) 462-9988 | WEBSITE
Warm lighting, cozy booths, and friendly service are a strong foundation for just about any kind of meal. Add Village of India’s tandoor-cooked naan and flavorful curries to the mix, and you’ve just described a can’t-miss family spot. Share the vegetarian thali—including onion bhajia and satisfying samosa—which is a better conversation starter than any appetizer you saw on a menu. Then move onto the list of customizable curries, like the rich and comforting Kadai chicken with potato kulcha.
Village of India isn’t cheap, but it’s not second-mortgage expensive either. Curry investments always have the best ROI.
Falafel King by Bombay Grill
$ | (803) 888-7844 | WEBSITE
This hidden gem in Columbia offers a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Indian flavors, but don’t worry—they kept the friendly service. The combo of crispy falafel wraps, creamy butter chicken, and warm garlic naan practically screams “flavorful comfort food,” so make a stop here for lunch breaks or casual dinners with your most adventurous friends.
With the atmosphere set, you’re free to focus on the King Bowl with tender chicken shawarma, generously served veggie samosas, and the person sharing the table with you. Or beside you, if you’re one of those groups.
Persis Biryani Indian Grill-Columbia
$ | (803) 851-3687 | WEBSITE
Some meals call for bold flavors. Persis Biryani Indian Grill doesn’t hold back on those, with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for sharing large plates and enjoying authentic Indian cuisine. Take the edge off any hunger with the savory Lamb Rogan Josh. It’s made with tender lamb in a rich tomato-based sauce that can be customized to your preferred spice level, and it pairs perfectly with the crispy garlic naan and well-done samosas.
You could stop there, but we’ve yet to meet a situation that the pepper goat or tikka chicken masala can’t improve.
2 Gingers
$ | (803) 772-5121 | WEBSITE
With fresh, traditional dishes like the heavenly Gobi Manchurian and flavorful butter chicken, you’re in good hands here when Indian cuisine is the priority. But it’s worth staying to explore the variety on the menu that keeps things exciting. You can go for classics, like the chicken biryani served with aromatic spices, or sample the full range of flavorful dishes that arrive fresh and full of flavor. It helps if your date enjoys warm, welcoming service despite occasional delays.
Delhi Palace
$ | (803) 750-7760 | WEBSITE
Dining at Delhi Palace is a bit like stepping into a bustling North Indian market, if that market had warm amber lighting, intricate tapestries on the walls, and the constant hum of satisfied conversation. The inviting-but-still-authentic atmosphere works for just about anyone, so you can feel comfortable settling into a booth with a group of friends or a solo culinary explorer.
Navigate those diverse menu choices—or the same-old reliable favorites—with rich butter chicken curry, fragrant basmati rice, and a refreshing mango lassi with just the right sweetness. If the spice levels start to intrigue you, you can always ponder this delightful question, “How do they balance all these flavors so perfectly?”
Culinary roots
Tearing off pieces of naan, clinking water glasses, popping golden-brown samosas in your mouth—these are all helpful activities when you’re craving comfort and unsure where to begin. Culinary Roots will keep you pleasantly satisfied. Find a seat in the clean, inviting dining room and choose from a well-crafted menu focused on rich Indian flavors.
Order a couple classic dishes like tender chicken korma and flavorful butter chicken, and remember that garlic naan tastes great regardless of how hungry you are.