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Tea and dal makhani spots

A tea experience that treats dal makhani as a slow-cooked centerpiece rather than a quick reheat option.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 1
Indian Tandoori Kingdom image 2
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Large, airy dining space offers both indoor and dog-friendly outdoor patio with heating. Warm, welcoming atmosphere features Punjabi music that energizes the setting. Clean, spacious environment complements authentic Indian cuisine known for standout dishes like butter chicken and korma.

Special chai blends come from a friendly host, including masala chai and Indian chai served to enjoy or take away. The tea pairs well with dishes like Dal Makhani and Sahi Paneer.

Rich and authentic Dal Makhani stands out with deep, flavorful spices. It pairs well with garlic naan and complements other dishes like Shahi Paneer and Gajar ka Halwa.

People are saying

"The food recommendations from Joban were excellent."

"The server Joban was so warm and welcoming, it made the tea feel special."

"The Dal Makhani here is amazing, thanks to Joben's polite and attentive service."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with no strict dress code.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

02
Cloves Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, stylish room with white linen decor and fresh cut roses on tables creates a cozy, classy atmosphere that feels intimate without being stuffy. Well-crafted cocktails and thoughtful menu choices complement the inviting, relaxed vibe. Owner involvement adds a personal touch to the experience.

Masala chai stands out with its rich, authentic flavor and perfect balance. It is freshly made to order and not too sweet, earning praise even from tea connoisseurs.

Creamy and buttery textures define the dal makhani here, making it a comforting and rich dish. It pairs well with garlic naan and rice, creating a satisfying vegetarian option.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and truly authentic."

"The masala chai here is freshly made and perfectly balanced."

"I thought the Dal Makhani was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available daily from 11am to 3pm.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

The average cost per person is around $39.

03
Veeray da Dhaba image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, narrow space with a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere and simple, cheerful interior. Loud energy fills the room, accompanied by Bollywood songs that add to the authentic vibe. The place offers warm hospitality and a homemade feel reminiscent of a traditional Indian dhaba.

Chai stands out with its excellent flavor and well-balanced chai masala. It pairs smoothly with the delicious food served alongside.

Rich, creamy black dal delivers authentic Dhaba style comfort. It pairs well with fresh, perfectly cooked tandoori rotis for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavors."

"The food here is spot on."

"This Dal Makhani is rich, creamy, and authentic Dhaba style."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended in advance due to limited seating.

2

The lunch special changes daily and includes a variety of dishes.

3

A meal with a drink costs just 20+ bucks.

04
Divani Indian Bistro image 1
Indian restaurant

Outdoor patio by the beach offers heated seating with views of the sunset and lively surroundings. Atmosphere blends romantic and serene vibes, making it popular for date nights. Interior features traditional Indian decor but feels dark and cramped compared to spacious outdoor area.

Chai here comes with a hint of cinnamon and pairs well with small plates like pani puri. The Ricotta pistachio sponge cake with Indian Chai makes a nice nightcap.

Dal Makhani has a velvety smooth texture and a buttery richness. It pairs well with Basil pesto naan and fresh jasmine rice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes like home."

"I loved the chai with a hint of cinnamon."

"The Dal Makhani here is buttery and velvety smooth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great value on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant features a large number of vegan options on the menu.

3

Most seating is outdoors, providing a pleasant dining experience.

05
Lungi South Indian & Sri Lankan Restaurant image 1

Space combines beautiful South Asian decor with a tranquil atmosphere and comfortable seating that invites lingering. A backyard patio adds an open, relaxed vibe ideal for sunny days. Technology-enabled service and servers wearing lungis create a distinctive, attentive experience.

Masala chai offers a warming, aromatic experience with a perfect blend of spices that evokes the subcontinent. Traditional chai comes steaming hot in a large mug, often paired with roti and curries.

Rich and flavorful dal makhani stands out with a fresh taste. It pairs well with garlic naan and complements dishes like malai kofta and house chicken curry.

People are saying

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

"The tea here is authentic and delicious."

"The Dal Makhani here is amazing and tasted fresh."

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.

06
Sham India's Oven ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ image 1

Indian restaurant offers modern decor with natural light and city views. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suitable for cozy meals or celebrations. Seating includes plush booths near windows, creating a relaxing environment.

Chai stands out with its excellent flavor but comes in a very small cup. It pairs well with dishes like chicken tikka masala and garlic naan.

Rich and creamy textures define the Dal Makhani here. It stands out as a delicious and simply divine dish among vegetarian options.

People are saying

"The food here explodes with flavor and always tastes fresh."

"The chai was thick, creamy, and just perfect."

"The Dal Makhani was rich, creamy, and simply divine."

Good to know

1

Indiaโ€™s Oven offers the best lunch specials during the week.

2

They validated parking for an hour in the building's garage.

3

Rice is not included with the entrees and must be ordered separately.

07
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Huge space with contemporary decor and a full bar anchors the atmosphere. Live belly dancers provide subtle entertainment without distraction. Outdoor patio welcomes pets and stays comfortable with effective heaters.

Masala chai comes with desserts like Gulab Jamun Crรจme Brulรจe and Paan Ice Cream. Chai tea pairs well with rich sweets such as Indian Creme Brulee and Chocolate Nemesis.

Rich and perfectly spiced, the Dal Makhani tastes traditional and authentic. It pairs well with butter naan and offers a creamy, satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I found the Dal Makhani to be rich, authentic, and perfectly spiced."

"The masala chai is wonderful, served in cute teapots and cups."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street and in a nearby lot, but it's limited.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

Happy Hour offers limited menu items on Fridays from 4-6pm.

08
Saar Indian Cuisine & Bar image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian restaurant with modern stylish decor and natural light creates a welcoming ambiance despite loud music. Guests enjoy unique cocktails and standout dishes like butter chicken and naan. The vibe blends neighborhood warmth with a lively bar atmosphere.

Masala Chai stands out as the main tea option, priced at $5. It arrives promptly and is often described as the most enjoyable drink here.

Rich and authentic, the dal makhani stands out with its creamy texture and deep flavor. It pairs well with naans and complements dishes like Sarso Ka saag and makke ki roti.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with flavor."

"I enjoyed the special masala chai after my meal."

"The Dal Makhani here is authentic and very good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can host a variety of events including cocktail parties and corporate events.

2

They are running good lunch deals.

3

The happy hour menu is great.

09
Patiala Indian Grill & Bar image 1

Spacious interior with upscale decor and desi vibes creates a cozy yet grand atmosphere. Soft Hindi melodies play at a volume that allows easy conversation. Guests enjoy creative Indian-inspired cocktails alongside some of the best North Indian food in the city.

Service staff recommend drinks and tea confidently. Masala chai stands out as perfect and amazing, paired well with paan.

Richly layered with spices and cooked to a creamy perfection, the dal makhani offers an authentic taste. It pairs well with other dishes and stands out for its rich and creamy texture.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be incredible."

"I enjoyed the amazing masala chai here."

"The Dal Makhani here is rich and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available from 4 to 7 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant has a policy of spending at least $30 per person.

3

There is no free or easy parking nearby.

10
MasalaCraft- Anaheim image 1
Indian restaurant

Open kitchen design creates a unique dining experience with authentic Indian music playing on large screens. Atmosphere varies from peaceful for conversation to occasionally disrupted by loud, off-sync videos. The vibe blends cultural authenticity with a casual, lively energy.

Masala Chai stands out with rich spices and bold flavor. Staff customize tea with extra ginger or special requests, making each cup unique.

Rich in flavor and perfectly cooked, the Dal Makhni stands out with its authentic taste and comforting richness. It pairs well with fresh naan and complements other dishes like Lamb Tikka Masala.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great, fresh, and tasty."

"I loved their Masala Chai; it was the best tea."

"The Dal Makhni was the highlight, rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11am to 2:30pm.

2

The weekend lunch buffet costs $20.99.

3

Happy hour features drinks and appetizers at discounted prices.

11
Bombay's image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space offers a cozy atmosphere with warm hospitality and homestyle Indian flavors. Music features classic Kishore Kumar songs, creating a lively backdrop. Seating is limited, emphasizing a casual, to-go friendly setup.

Masala chai here is authentic Indian style and served hot. The tea stands out for its rich spices and strong flavor.

Rich and creamy texture defines the dal makhani here, tasting just like homemade. It pairs well with various vegetarian dishes and naan, offering a satisfying, authentic flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and served piping hot."

"The chai here was noteworthy, some even called it the best ever."

"I found the Dal Makhani to be delicious, just like homemade."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is posted from 11 AM to 4 PM.

2

The prices for chaats have increased from $6 to $12.

3

Beware of automatic gratuity for small groups.

12
Patiala Indian Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Small dining area feels cramped and cozy with tables placed very close together. Authentic Indian music plays, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers an open-air experience for evening meals.

Only tea is served here, no coffee options. The Chai Martini stands out, and the mocktails pair well with snacks like palak patta chaat and pani puri.

Rich, buttery taste defines the dal makhani here. It pairs well with freshly made garlic naan and melts smoothly in the mouth.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic tasting."

"The Dal Makhani here is amazing and soul-nourishing."

"I thought the tea was amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers special laddus on the day of Diwali.

2

There is a waiting period of more than 1:30 hours to eat.

3

You must give your name inside on busy days as no one is taking names outside.

13
Punjabi Spice image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a desi ambiance with music videos enhancing the vibe. Interior feels like stepping into India, combining home-style comfort with a classic NY spot simplicity. Atmosphere is lively and authentic, reflecting traditional Punjabi culture.

Chai stands out as delicious and tasty here, often paired with samosas. Staff show kindness, even when spills happen.

Slow-cooked to velvety perfection, the Dal Makhani offers an incredibly rich and flavorful taste. Some orders may receive ordinary daal instead of the Dal Makhani.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, bold, and comforting."

"I considered the tea to be among the best I've ever had."

"The Dal Makhani here is slow-cooked to velvety perfection."

Good to know

1

This place is open 24/7.

2

The platters are priced around $13 and include 2 vegetarian curries, 2 rotis, and rice.

3

The restaurant is 100% vegetarian.

14
Angel image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space with cramped seating and loud Bollywood music creates a lively but tight atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy alternative with heaters for comfort. The vibe reflects authentic Indian culture, making it feel like a spot in Delhi rather than the US.

Masala chai stands out with rich spices and bold flavor. The chai here pairs well with savory snacks like pani puri and butter naan.

Rich and creamy texture defines the Dal Makhni here, making it a standout dish. It pairs well with Garlic Naan and complements other flavorful items like Paneer Khurchan.

People are saying

"I thought this food was the best Indian food I had ever tasted."

"The masala chai was rich and flavorful."

"I found the Dal Makhni to be mouth watering."

Good to know

1

Customers should make a reservation before visiting due to limited seating.

2

Finding parking is a big challenge in that area.

3

You need to bring your own wine opener because it is a BYOB restaurant.

15
Bungalow image 1
Indian restaurant

Space blends old Indian bungalow decor with cozy booths and a sunlit courtyard feel. Atmosphere feels welcoming and homely, enhanced by the chef's personal greetings and unique cocktail offerings. Guests experience a mix of sophistication and comfort with attentive table-side service.

They serve traditional chai in cutting chai glasses and offer clarified chai that stands out for its flavor. Hot tea is available for people waiting, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Rich and flavorful, the dal makhani stands out with its creamy texture and deep spices. It pairs well with naan and ranks among the most authentic versions found here.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and filled with so much flavor."

"The masala chai here is a must-try, it really finished us off."

"I loved the Dal Makhani; it tasted so authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations open 3 weeks in advance at 11 AM EST and fill up quickly.

2

A table reservation is recommended for a better experience.

3

The restaurant does not accept phone bookings; reservations are only through the app.

16
GupShup image 1
Indian restaurant

Bi-level space channels 1970's Bombay mansion style with brass, gold, wood, and antique mirrors. Atmosphere blends modern Indian decor with Bollywood classics playing, creating a lively yet elegant vibe. Outdoor seating offers abundant heat lamps but features less comfortable furniture and table gaps.

Cutting chai comes complimentary and stands out as very flavorful. Cocktails like the masala chai martini offer a unique twist on traditional tea flavors.

Rich and creamy Dal Makhani here matches authentic Indian style closely. It pairs well with garlic naan and stands out as a favorite alongside butter chicken and saag paneer.

People are saying

"The food, especially the mutton sukka and butter chicken, is delicious."

"The Butter Masala Paneer was delicious and flavorful."

"The Dal Makhani here is so creamy and enriched with smokiness."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service at GupShup.

2

Brunch is only available if everyone at the table orders it.

3

The restaurant automatically adds a 20% gratuity for parties of 2 or more.

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 chai stands out with its rich flavor and comes served with Parle G biscuits. The chai pairs well with snacks like samosa and dosa, making it a solid choice for tea lovers.

Dal Makhni comes with locally sourced flavors and pairs well with rice, tandoori roti, and chutneys. Some find it customized to the palate, while others rate it as average in taste.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the delicious chai, it's the best I've had."

"I believed the Dal Makhani was to die for."

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
Benares Tribeca Indian Restaurant image 1

Huge, airy space with upscale decor and comfortable seating creates a fine dining vibe. Lively atmosphere features loud Indian music and occasional live percussion, making conversation challenging. Highly regarded cocktails complement traditional Indian dishes in a moderately elegant setting.

Masala chai stands out as a satisfying and flavorful drink here. The chai served by the old man is consistently good and pairs well with meals like chicken jalfrezi and Kashmiri pulau.

Dal Makhani here tends to be bland, missing salt and spices. Other dishes like mix vegetable pakoda and samosa come out very good, but the dal makhani lacks punch.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is flavorful, refined, and genuinely welcoming."

"The masala chai here is really good and authentic."

"I ordered Dal Makhni and it was very good."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is only available until 2:30 PM.

2

At 3pm, they have drink specials.

3

The restaurant has a happy hour that helps with the cost of cocktails.

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