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South Indian food in New York

South Indian food that honors traditional preparation methods instead of catering to a generic palate.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Masala Harbor image 1
Masala Harbor image 2
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Indian restaurant

Small, cozy spot with traditional Indian dรฉcor offers a quiet, inviting vibe. Enjoy authentic South Indian dishes like ghee roast dosa and goat biryani with strong flavors. Friendly service complements Michelin-starred quality food and refreshing drinks like mango lassi.

Offers authentic South Indian dishes like ghee roast dosa that match Michelin-starred quality. Serves delicious biryani varieties including boneless chicken and goat dhum, plus flavorful chicken tikka masala and refreshing mango lassi and masala chai.

Authentic South Indian dishes appear in a full spread rarely seen in the United States. Goat Biryani carries strong South Indian flavor, and the food overall stays true to traditional tastes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"I've never had Indian food this delicious, especially the crispy ghee dosa."

"I've tried South Indian food worldwide, and this was exceptional."

Good to know

1

They have free car parking at their premises.

2

Masala Harbor does not serve beer or wine, but they welcome BYOB.

3

The restaurant has a kids menu.

02
Brooklyn Curry Project image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian food stand offers authentic dosas and Bengaluru-style flavors with locally sourced ingredients. Atmosphere feels like a home away from home, energized by friendly owners and a lively crowd. Long lines form on Saturdays, with service running until early afternoon.

Dosas here match the authentic taste of Bangalore, especially the ghee masala dosa and Onion Uttappam. The idli sambar also stands out as amazing, offering a homely and unique Indian food experience.

Authentic South Indian cuisine shines here with a focus on Ghee Masala Dosa and other homely dishes. The food captures traditional flavors and offers a genuine taste of South India.

People are saying

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, tastes just like home."

"The chai tastes just like what I ate in India."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and spectacular."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open on Saturdays.

2

Expect to wait 30 to 60 minutes for your dish.

3

Get there early before the line gets long.

03
Anjappar Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Open seating and vibrant decor create an authentic South Indian vibe with genuine spices and vegetarian thali options. Signature dishes like biryani and butter chicken curry highlight the Indian menu. Classic and remixed Indian music adds to the cozy, elegant atmosphere.

Biryani stands out as a signature dish, often paired with butter chicken curry and garlic naan. The menu also features kotu paratha, chettinad curry, paneer butter masala, and vegetarian thali options.

Authentic South Indian dishes feature genuine spices and traditional preparations. The South Indian thali offers a well-rounded, flavorful experience with a focus on vegetarian options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The Indian food here, especially the biryani, is delicious with amazing taste."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

They charge an 18% gratuity fee for even 4 people.

2

The happy hour offers $5 drinks and many other $5 food choices.

3

The killi parotta takes 30 minutes to prepare.

04
Lungi South Indian & Sri Lankan Restaurant image 1

Space blends South Asian decor with a calm vibe and comfy seats. Kothu Roti and Masala Dosa shine with balanced flavors. Authentic South Indian spices and Sri Lankan touches bring rich, genuine tastes to dishes like goat biryani and lamb curry.

Kothu Roti and Masala Dosa stand out with clean, well-balanced flavors. Dishes like goat biryani and lamb curry offer rich, authentic tastes that remind of home.

Authentic South Indian dishes here match the spice level and flavor of those from Hyderabad and Kerala. The restaurant maintains original South Indian culture and taste with genuine Sri Lankan influences.

People are saying

"I found the South Indian and Sri Lankan food here to be authentic."

"This is the best authentic Indian food I've had in NYC."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are a good deal from 4-7 pm Monday to Sunday.

2

The Bottomless brunch is a delicious experience.

3

Imli offers a lunch special just before closing.

05
LORE image 1
Restaurant

Cozy, intimate space with tight seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere that buzzes with local energy. Heated outdoor terrace offers a sheltered spot with herbs growing nearby. Creative cocktails and carefully crafted food presentation add to the distinctive dining experience.

Fermented dosa stands out as a highlight here. The dosa ranks among the best ever tasted, offering a phenomenal dinner experience centered on this dish.

Artful South Indian fusion blends classic dishes with bold, bright innovation. The masala dosa delivers authentic flavors that evoke traditional tastes from Mangalore.

People are saying

"The food here is unique, flavorful, and incredibly delicious."

"You have to try the dosa; it's amazing Indian food."

"Chef Jay's South Indian dishes are a globally inspired culinary journey."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation on weekends to ensure a spot.

2

Brunch is a popular option for starting the weekend.

3

You can walk in without a reservation and eat at the bar.

06
Hillside Dosa Hutt image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space with canteen-style seating and bright lighting creates a warm and casual vibe. Atmosphere feels busy but welcoming, suited for quick meals rather than leisurely dining. Simple, clean setup emphasizes comfort over fancy decor.

Offers an incredible variety of dosas with crispiness and perfectly spiced fillings. Includes Medhu Vadas, soft idli, and North Indian sweet dishes, all in a pure vegetarian setting.

Piping hot, authentic South Indian dishes come with generous portions and good quality. Masala dosa, Mixed Pakora, and a variety of dosas highlight the vegetarian menu at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The South Indian food here is authentic and flavorful."

"The Indian food, especially the dosas, is crispy and tasty."

"I loved the flavorful and fresh South Indian dosas here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not take phone orders and requires customers to place orders in person.

2

You pick a free table, go to the counter to order your food.

3

The restaurant does not accept credit cards and only accepts cash.

07
Chatti by Regi Mathew image 1
South Indian restaurant

Space features warm earthy tones and traditional Kerala dรฉcor that create an authentic atmosphere reflecting Kerala's culture. Energy feels relaxing and vibrant, with carefully crafted cocktails like toddy and Malabar Old Fashioned enhancing the experience. The setting balances bright, airy intimacy with upscale, chic design.

Offers unusual regional Indian cuisine with standout dishes like mini appam with Rampuram chicken curry and toddy shop masala lobster. Features unique items such as gooseberry masala roasted mutton chops, karimeen with gooseberry masala, and ginger tamarind ice cream.

Authentic South Indian cuisine shines here with a menu inspired by Toddy shop food from Kerala. The place offers a novel selection of dishes that stand out from typical South Indian restaurants.

People are saying

"The Kerala food here is so authentic, packed with fresh spices and rich coconut flavor."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and refreshing."

"The Indian food, especially the fish curry and mutton biryani, was awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, with smaller portion sizes.

3

Chatti is the first Kerala-style Indian restaurant in NYC.

08
Madras Dosa Co. image 1
South Indian restaurant

Fast casual setup combines gourmet South Indian food with a cozy, modern ambiance. Indian music videos play loudly on big screens, creating a lively atmosphere. Peacock mural adds a distinctive visual touch to the space.

Dosas stand out with their super crunchy texture and authentic flavors, including a well-balanced masala with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Traditional South Indian dishes like thatte idli with sambar and samosa chaat complement the menu, alongside creative twists like lamb dosa and regional-style tacos.

Offers great value South Indian food with a focus on authentic flavors. Stands out for delivering some of the best South Indian dishes available in the city.

People are saying

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, is fresh and delicious."

"I found the authentic South Indian flavors here unforgettable."

"The South Indian food here is authentic and reminds me of eating in Chennai."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom for customers, which may be inconvenient.

2

Seating is limited, so be prepared to stand or eat quickly.

3

You need to order at least two dishes per person for a proper meal.

09
Madras Dosa Co. Times Square image 1
South Indian restaurant

Small boutique restaurant with congested seating and a lively Desi vibe creates a noisy, crowded atmosphere. Fresh dosas are made visibly on a hot griddle, adding a culinary performance element. Indian movies play in a colorfully painted space with a street view through large windows.

Dosas stand out with authentic flavors and good portions, especially the masala dosa and podi dosa. Side dishes like idli fries and pav bhaji complement the menu, all served with quick service and a lively vibe.

Spicy South Indian food offers fresh, flavorful, and comforting dishes with authentic vegetarian options. This spot serves satisfying meals that capture genuine South Indian cuisine near Times Square.

People are saying

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, is amazing."

"This lunch spot's dosas are crispy and delicious."

"The South Indian food here is so tasty and authentic."

Good to know

1

They gave us complimentary coconut and dosa for their opening day event.

2

The restaurant has indoor seating.

3

The prices are reasonable and not too expensive.

10
The Hindu Temple Society of North America image 1

Temple architecture blends traditional South Indian design with intricate carvings and majestic towers, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors find a calm, quiet space surrounded by colorful sculptures of multiple deities. A basement canteen serves authentic South Indian vegetarian food, adding to the cultural experience.

A basement canteen serves authentic South Indian cuisine with dishes like dosas, idli, vada, and pakodas. Prices stay reasonable, and masala chai is also available.

A basement canteen serves authentic South Indian cuisine with a focus on Tamizh style dishes. The menu features vegetarian options like pakodas and masala chai at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The canteen food here is amazing South Indian."

"I found the temple to be very peaceful and spiritual."

"The Indian food, especially the plain dosa, is so good."

Good to know

1

The temple hosts grand celebrations during Ganesh Chathurthi and Durga Puja.

2

Yoga activity takes place on Saturday mornings in the hall.

3

A dress code is strictly enforced; modest attire is required.

11
Kanyakumari image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian restaurant offers a cramped space with a mix of traditional decor and modern touches. Loud music fills the air, creating a vibrant but noisy atmosphere. Unique features include brassware highlights and an extensive dessert platter served on a seashell.

Authentic South Indian cuisine shines with the guruprasad Dosa standing out as a highlight. The dried shrimp chutney adds a unique, perfectly curated flavor.

Offers a great selection of South Indian dishes distinct from typical North Indian fare. Blends South Indian spices with Mumbai street-food flavors for a trendy and tasty experience.

People are saying

"The food here is super flavorful and tastes so fresh."

"The Indian food here is full of flavor and spice."

"This South Indian food is thoughtful, well-executed, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Brunch specials are popular and well-liked by customers.

3

Special dessert shows are available for birthdays upon request.

12
SARAVANAA BHAVAN image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Small, humble space with cramped seating and basic decor creates an informal, lively atmosphere. Loud music and street sounds add to the energetic vibe. Food and water served in steel enhance the authentic, comforting experience.

Masala dosa stands out as a signature dish, served with excellent idly and sambar. The menu focuses on South Indian vegetarian dishes with authentic flavors.

Authentic South Indian dishes dominate the menu with a great variety of classics. The food is consistently hot and delicious, focusing on vegetarian options like Dosa that capture traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The South Indian food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic, comforting, and just like home."

"I found the Indian food here served some of the best dosas in NYC."

Good to know

1

Parking is not available near the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices are higher than listed online, so expect to pay more.

3

The restaurant claims to have an A health rating, but it has been pending for over a year.

13
Hindu Temple Canteen image 1
South Indian restaurant

Basement cafeteria under a temple offers spacious, simple seating with cafeteria-style dining. Atmosphere is often hot and steamy with high humidity due to kitchen proximity and crowd. South Indian food features a wide variety of dosas known for their taste.

South Indian dishes shine here with authentic dosas like Mysore masala and paper dosa, known for their hearty, comforting taste. The menu includes combos like idli vada and drinks such as chai and lassi, all at affordable prices under $10.

Authentic South Indian flavor shines in every dish, offering a variety of classical cuisine and snacks that satisfy traditional tastes. Meals are consistently vegetarian, tasty, and affordable, fitting well for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

People are saying

"The food here is simple, fresh, and authentically South Indian."

"The Indian food, especially the dosa, is crisp and not oily."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and comforting."

Good to know

1

Your whole meal will be under $10.

2

Plan accordingly for potential wait times on weekends.

3

It gets extremely busy on weekends.

14
Dosa Hutt image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, quaint space with bright windows and simple decor creates a clean, cozy atmosphere. Loud laughter and scented candles add lively, warm energy. Known for authentic South Indian dosas and flavorful dishes, it draws those seeking genuine ethnic food.

Dosas stand out with authentic South Indian flavors, especially the masala dosa and Rava dosa. Refreshing mango lassi and coconut chutney complement the savory dishes well.

Authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes stand out here with daily food suitability and clean presentation. The flavors are consistently amazing and true to tradition.

People are saying

"I found the South Indian food here to be amazing and authentic."

"I thought the chai tea was the best I've had."

"The Indian food, especially the dosas, is flavorful and generously filled."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is purely vegetarian.

2

It is better to come during non-busy hours and days.

3

The health grade certificate is on the side of the building and is graded a B.

15
Kuttanadan Indian Restaurant image 1

Spacious dining area with tasteful decor and comfortable seating creates a warm and inviting atmosphere reflecting South Indian hospitality. The vibe stays cozy and peaceful, making it suitable for relaxed meals. Regulars come for authentic Kerala cuisine known for its distinct flavors.

Rich spices define the butter chicken and chicken tikka masala here. The menu features flavorful options like chicken biriyani, goat biriyani, chicken chettinadu, duck roast, and garlic naans.

Authentic Kerala cuisine shines with rich curries and soft, flavorful breads. The food captures the warmth of South Indian hospitality and offers a delicious, genuine taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the staff is super friendly."

"The Indian food here is delicious, especially the butter chicken."

"I found the South Indian food here to be the best."

Good to know

1

The buffet lunch is available on Fridays and weekends starting at 12 noon.

2

Expect limited selection at the weekend buffet priced over $20.

3

Free parking is available at the restaurant.

16
HYDERABADI ZAIQA image 1
Indian restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Indian restaurant with limited seating and close quarters creates a loud, casual vibe reminiscent of a major Indian city. The space feels cramped but offers authentic South Indian atmosphere and good cooling on hot days.

Hyderabadi dum biryani stands out for its authentic flavor and tender goat meat. The menu also features samosas and tandoori chicken that offer distinct tastes true to Indian cuisine.

Authentic South Indian and Andhra flavors stand out here, especially in dishes like chicken vepudu. The food earns approval from those familiar with the cuisine.

People are saying

"This biryani is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

"The Indian food here, especially the biryani, is authentic and amazing."

"The South Indian biryani here is super authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant is closed from 3 PM to 4 PM daily for a family break.

3

There is no restroom available for customers.

17
Ahimsa image 1
Indian restaurant

Bright space opens into a dining room with a skylight and glass roof, creating an indoor-outdoor experience. Warmth and friendliness fill the air, driven by unmatched hospitality from a family-run team. The atmosphere stays calm and inviting, making it a relaxing spot for vegetarian Indian cuisine.

Masala dosa stands out with light, tasty flavors paired with perfectly spiced chutneys and sambar. Garlic naan and Kadai paneer offer rich, authentic tastes, while the kheer delivers a memorable sweet finish.

South Indian dishes include crispy dosas, poori, and vada with authentic flavors. The menu offers both North and South Indian options along with unique appetizers and desserts.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Indian food here to be excellent."

"I found the Indian food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The South Indian dosas here are delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

There is a lack of accessibility due to two stairs when trying to go up with a stroller.

2

Ahimsa accommodates food intolerances such as gluten and dairy.

3

If you donโ€™t want spicy food, you should order mild.

18
Madras Dosa Co. Rockefeller Center image 1

Underground setting with fast food setup and limited seating creates a cozy yet cramped atmosphere. Bollywood clips and an Indian playlist add lively cultural energy. Friendly environment complements authentic South Indian flavors served in a relaxed space.

Dosas come out perfectly crispy with standout options like masala dosa, Pav Bhaji dosa, and lamb kheema dosa. Sambar and chutneys deliver very flavorful and tangy accompaniments that enhance the meal.

Food delivers authentic South Indian flavors with dishes like sambar and chutney standing out. The menu offers a true taste of South Indian cuisine that appeals to fans and newcomers alike.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the dosa, was perfectly made and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot serves amazing, traditional South Indian food."

"The South Indian flavors here taste truly authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is limited.

2

Expect higher prices, with meals averaging around $13 plus a 4% surcharge.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but tips should be given in cash.

19
Semma image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian restaurant offers authentic dishes with a cozy vibe highlighted by thatched walls and bright Kathakali faces. The space includes a spacious bar where guests watch staff craft creative Indian spice cocktails. Outdoor seating and a private party area add variety to the dining setup.

Goat biryani stands out with its rich, deep flavors and tender meat. Gunpowder dosa offers a unique spice blend that rivals top dosa from India.

Non-vegetarian South Indian dishes stand out with authentic flavors rarely found in the US. The rich sambar offers a comforting, consistent taste that meets high standards of South Indian cuisine.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is amazing; every dish I tried was delicious."

"The coconut dessert was my favorite, light yet indulgent."

"The South Indian food here is bold, perfectly balanced, and deeply authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations should be booked exactly 30 days in advance at midnight.

2

The restaurant charges a nonrefundable $50 per person deposit to make a reservation.

3

The last seating is at 9:30 PM.

20
PONGAL image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Vegetarian restaurant offers a cozy, colorful decor with authentic South Indian atmosphere blending modern and cultural elements. Space feels clean and spacious but can be somewhat drafty and cramped. Walls display vibrant photography capturing Indian life, enhancing the welcoming vibe.

Dosas here stand out with their crispy texture and rich masala filling. The menu also features great Sambar, thalis, and authentic Madras coffee.

Authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes stand out here, especially the dosai and royal thalis. The food offers a genuine taste of Chennai-style cuisine with a focus on healthy, flavorful options.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious and authentic vegetarian Indian food here."

"I found the South Indian food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The South Indian food here is so authentic, it's like visiting Chennai."

Good to know

1

Everything is vegetarian and gluten-free options are subtly noted on the menu.

2

PONGAL is fully kosher.

3

They add a 15% service charge by default.

21
Dosa Delight image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, narrow Indian restaurant with dim lighting and congested seating creates a cozy yet cramped atmosphere. Music adds to the vibe, while steel glasses and Taj Mahal beers offer distinctive touches. The space feels like a casual spot with a mix of traditional and disco-style lighting.

Dosas stand out as the top choice here, known for their quality and flavor. The garlic naan also ranks highly among the breads served, complementing the vegetarian and vegan options well.

Authentic vegetarian South Indian flavors shine through every dish. The menu offers a wide selection of both North and South Indian cuisine, with dosas meeting high standards for authenticity.

People are saying

"The vegetarian dosas here are authentic, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, is amazing and huge."

"The South Indian dosas here are phenomenal and crispy."

Good to know

1

You have to pay the dine-in price for take-out.

2

An automatic 18% tip is added for groups of 4 people.

3

The restaurant has a strict policy against meat and outside food or drinks.

22
A1 Adyar Ananda Bhavan image 1
South Indian restaurant

Small space with kitchen at entrance creates a cramped feel. Atmosphere varies from simple and homey to exotic and vibrant depending on perspective. Known for authentic South Indian dishes like dosa and thali, attracting lovers of Indian cuisine.

Crispy, flavorful dosas stand out here, especially the gunpowder masala dosa and Pondicherry masala dosa. Fresh chutneys and sambar complement the dishes, while the Madras coffee pairs well with the South Indian flavors.

Offers authentic South Indian cuisine with dishes like South Indian Thali featuring idli, vada, and masala dosa. Serves traditional flavors that stand out in a busy city setting.

People are saying

"The South Indian food here tastes so authentic and fresh."

"The filter coffee here is out of this world."

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, is incredibly good."

Good to know

1

The prices at A2B are stratospheric, with a meal for two costing around 100 dollars.

2

The restaurant has no potato dishes available.

3

They give cash discounts, so take cash if you want the discount.

23
Dilbar Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Renovated interior features a fresh, elegant design with bright lighting and a cozy atmosphere. The space offers Kerala dishes and a buffet lunch known for Thalassery biriyani and lamb chops. Energy is calm with a focus on flavorful, well-seasoned food.

Fresh and authentic Indian dishes stand out here, especially the chicken tikka masala and Thalassery biriyani. The naan and chicken tandoori show careful marination and quality preparation.

Buffet offers a wide variety of South Indian and North Indian dishes with authentic flavors. Kerala-style dishes stand out among the South Indian cuisine options.

People are saying

"The buffet here is delicious with aromatic flavors."

"I loved the Indian food, especially the delicious garlic naan."

"I found it to be the best South Indian buffet place."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet costs $16 plus tax.

2

The lunch buffet is available from 12 PM to 3 PM.

3

DILBAR offers traditional festival sadyas and special buffet lunches for celebrations every year.

24
Ananda image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy dining area with soft piano jazz and mood lighting creates a peaceful atmosphere. Friendly vibe suits social gatherings and offers a calming interior. Separate Jain menu adds a unique touch for vegetarian options.

Authentic South Indian dishes shine with gigantic dosas that are crispy and flavorful, including the Pondicherry masala dosa and onion rawa masala dosa. Bisi Bele Bath, biryani, and chaat also showcase rich spices and high-quality ingredients, with many options catering to vegan diets.

Authentic South Indian cuisine shines through with dishes that remind of home-cooked meals from Kerala. The meals thali offers a delicious variety that exceeds expectations.

People are saying

"The vegetarian Indian food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I loved the South Indian food; it was so close to home."

"I found the Indian food here to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes the kitchen and dining area at 9:30 PM.

2

The restaurant closed from 3-5 PM when I was there.

3

The prices at Ananda are reasonable, costing $20-30 per person including tip.

25
Dosa Royale image 1
Indian restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot for groups to enjoy the local vibe. The space is small and quaint with a no-frills dining room. Dosas stand out as crisp and light, making them a distinctive feature of the menu.

Dosas stand out with flavorful texture and a creamy potato filling that is not oily. Samosas come with spicy tangy chutneys and the curries, including chicken tikka masala and butter chicken, are rich and delicious.

Authentic South Indian flavors shine through in dishes like the sambar, which tastes true to tradition. The menu focuses on real, delicious South Indian food with a strong emphasis on genuine taste.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the dosa, is delicious."

"The samosas here are crispy, flavorful, and come with unexpectedly tasty chutneys."

"I thought the South Indian food here had authentic and delicious flavors."

Good to know

1

They have a lunch promotion available.

2

Expect long wait times for delivery; it can take over two hours.

3

Check the bill carefully before paying to avoid unexpected charges.

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