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Indian food and tea

Made for those who require a steaming cup of tea to properly balance the heat and spice of their Indian meal.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Timur Indian and Nepalese Cuisine image 1
Timur Indian and Nepalese Cuisine image 2
Timur Indian and Nepalese Cuisine image 3
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Redone interior creates a warm atmosphere with Himalayan vibes. Larger tables accommodate big groups comfortably. The place offers authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine with vegetarian and vegan options.

Rich spices define the curries like Ginger Garlic curry, Kerala curry, and tikka masala. The dosa stands out as expertly prepared, paired well with dishes like paneer tikka kebab and Chicken Biryani.

Chai here is balanced in spice and sweetness, never overpowering. Masala chai comes warm and is often served as a complimentary gesture.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The Indian food here is flavorful and delicious, not greasy."

"I loved their masala chai, it wasn't too sweet."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Prices are reasonable, with generous portions for the cost.

3

The restaurant is located near the N transit line for easy access.

02
COPPER CHIMNEY INDIAN RESTAURANT image 1

Spices fill the air in a clean, well-decorated space with old Hindi songs playing softly. The atmosphere stays warm and welcoming, creating a peaceful dining mood ideal for relaxed meals. Guests enjoy a comfortable environment that suits any occasion.

Authentic Indian cuisine shines with rich, creamy Butter Chicken and tender Lamb Rogan Josh. Starters like crispy Vegetable Pakora and flavorful Paneer Tikka Masala add variety, while dishes like goat biryani and baingan bhartha offer bold flavors.

Unlimited free chai is offered even without the buffet. The buffet includes naan and a tasty chai. Chai pairs well with the Vegetable Pakora.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is rich, creamy, and comforting."

"The goat curry here is tender, aromatic, and flavorful."

"The vegetable pakora are lightly battered and perfectly fried."

Good to know

1

Copper Chimney uses organic ingredients for many of its dishes.

2

Dining at Copper Chimney is a treat for both vegetarians and meat lovers.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours.

03
Himalayan Hub / Best Nepali and Indian food in San Francisco image 1

Restaurant offers cozy, intimate seating with real flame candles and decor that recalls Kathmandu. Atmosphere feels warm and thoughtful despite somewhat bright lighting, creating a low-key vibe. Food is affordable and authentic, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, attracting a quiet crowd even during dinner.

Chicken tikka masala and garlic naan stand out with fresh, fragrant, and perfectly spiced flavors. The menu includes vegetarian thali true to Nepalese taste, along with affordable biryanis like lamb biryani and flavorful dishes such as Dal Tadka, chana masala, chicken tandoori, and lamb choila.

Milk tea and chai appear regularly alongside dishes like chicken biryani and Gobi Manchurian. The tea serves as a common, comforting beverage paired with savory snacks and meals.

People are saying

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

"The Indian food here is delicious, especially the garlic naan."

"The tea here tastes just like it does in India."

Good to know

1

The prices are very reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options available on the menu.

04
Sewa Nepalese and Indian Cuisine image 1

Bright, stylish interior blends authentic Nepali decor with a modern, cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with chill background music enhancing relaxed dining. Space suits both intimate meals and group gatherings.

Chicken Tikka Masala and Paneer Tikka Masala stand out with rich, balanced flavors. Dishes like Chicken Tandoori and butter naan come with just the right spice and perfect cooking.

Warm chai arrives quickly, making it a comforting choice on cold nights. Tea service is prompt, often coming just minutes before appetizers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the momos."

"The Indian food here is delicious and perfectly spiced."

"Their masala chai is excellent and lovely."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and tables are usually available on Friday nights.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options.

3

Free delivery is available within a 3-mile radius.

05
Little Nepal Indian Cuisine image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Bright colors and beautiful decor create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a laid-back vibe. The space feels calm and relaxing, inviting diners to enjoy flavorful meals in a friendly setting. Regulars appreciate the juicy momos and clay oven naan that complement the peaceful environment.

Butter chicken stands out with rich flavor, even preferred over tikka masala. The lamb vindaloo is tender and tasty, paired well with thin naan baked in a clay oven with a pleasant aroma.

Chai tea comes hot and fresh every time. It pairs well with dishes like tandoori chicken and momos.

People are saying

"The chicken curry here is delicious and not your standard fare."

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

"I enjoyed the chai tea with my delicious Indian food."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $25, offering good value.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes, so plan accordingly if you're very hungry.

3

The restaurant specializes in Nepalese cuisine, which is unique in the area.

06
Taj Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Dining space feels clean and modern with a cozy setting and warm, casual atmosphere. The vibe stays quiet and unpretentious, inviting relaxed meals without loud music or distractions. Seating is comfortable, and fresh flowers add a subtle touch to the simple decor.

Samosas come filled with potatoes and peas and pair well with chutney. The menu features chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, and saag paneer alongside standout breads like garlic and cheese naan.

Chai here is tasty and pairs well with the vegetarian options. It complements the Indian food nicely.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and freshly made."

"The Indian food here is fresh, delicious, and perfectly spiced."

"The food here is so delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 10 pm.

2

Rice costs $4 and is not included with the $16 entree.

3

The lunch cost me $32 before tip.

07
Apna Chulha image 1
North Indian restaurant

Spacious and elegant with high ceilings and natural light, featuring authentic architecture and visible kitchen where chefs cook. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, enhanced by cozy seating and low music. Outdoor seating and fireplaces add to the pleasant vibe suitable for groups.

Tandoori naans come out perfect and the chicken tikka masala offers rich flavors with customizable spice levels. Dishes like fish pakora made with salmon are flaky and well-prepared, while butter chicken and samosas hold solid traditional appeal.

Complimentary chai is a common offering here, often served fresh and with masala spices. Staff regularly provide extra tea samples and show strong hospitality around tea service.

People are saying

"The buffet staff here are so friendly and attentive."

"This Indian food is so flavorful and delicious."

"The chai here is perfect with great portion sizes."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $20, which is a good value.

2

The lunch buffet is all-you-can-eat for $21.

3

They have good vegetarian options available.

08
Karahi House image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers homely vibe with comfort Pakistani food in a neat and clean setting. Atmosphere feels welcoming and calm, making guests feel at home. Open late on weeknights, which is uncommon in the area.

Chicken biryani and lamb biryani stand out with rich flavors. The chicken korma features super tender chicken. Garlic naan and naan served with generosity complement dishes like chicken tikka masala and tandoori chicken.

Unlimited free chai tea is served, often as a complimentary treat at the end of meals. The chai tastes homemade and pairs well with occasional free desserts like kheer.

People are saying

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

"The Indian food here is delicious, with lots of spice and flavor."

"You get complimentary chai, it's delicious."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm on weekdays.

2

They offer an all-you-can-eat lunch deal currently.

3

Lahori Breakfast is served from 10 am to 11:30 am on weekends.

09
Bombay Brasserie image 1
Indian restaurant

Elegant space blends Indianโ€“French flavors with nostalgic British era charm. Atmosphere stays upscale yet welcoming, suited for intimate dinners or special occasions. Decor features marble tabletops and a pretty chandelier, adding to refined but comfortable vibe.

Offers high class Indian cuisine with dishes like paneer makhani and naan. Includes standout items such as tandoori-style King Salmon, Crab Coconut Soup, Beef Pepper Fry with parota, and Prawn Mango Curry with rice.

Chai comes as a cocktail rather than a traditional tea. House-made chai is not available, though the chai cocktail stands out.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is flavorful, authentic, and beautifully presented."

"The Indian food here is rich, silky, and packed with flavor."

"I wish they had house-made chai on the menu."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant offers a prix fixe menu on weekends with vegan options available.

3

Expect a unique fusion of French and Indian cuisine not found elsewhere.

10
Once Upon a Dosa image 1

Minimalistic setup with self check-in and light-filled interior creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels down-to-earth and clean, with vintage-inspired serving details adding charm. The open door sometimes makes the dining area uncomfortably cold.

Authentic South Indian dishes like masala dosa, ghee podi idlis, and mutton kheema dosa stand out for their rich flavors. The sambar and curry dosa taste close to home-style cooking, and the dosa station works well for events.

Offers Masala Chai and OG Roast with podi and spicy chutney. Staff often shares free tea masala and serves simple, good chai.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and satisfying."

"I loved the crispy, flavorful South Indian dosa here."

"The South Indian food here is really great and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; street parking can be tricky in the busy area.

2

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

3

The restaurant is strictly vegetarian, catering well to vegetarian diners.

11
Koolfi Creamery and Cafe image 1

Ice cream shop offers Indian-inspired flavors with dosa-flavored cones and unique kulfi varieties. Outdoor seating creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where people talk and joke comfortably. Tastings help visitors explore an extensive, inventive menu.

Falooda kulfi brings authentic Bombay-style sweetness with rich flavors. Gulab jamun sundae pairs warm, syrup-soaked dough balls with scoops of Klassic Koolfi and jackfruit coconut ice cream for a unique twist.

Masala chai and South Indian filter coffee stand out here. The chai tastes close to homemade, offering a comforting, familiar flavor.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is delicious with unique Indian-inspired flavors."

"You have to try the Indian Food kulfi; it's the best I've had."

"The kulfi here is so delicious, it transports you back in time."

Good to know

1

Koolfi Creamery offers a rotating selection of unique Indian-inspired ice cream flavors.

2

They cater to dietary restrictions, ensuring options for everyone.

3

Tastings of multiple flavors are available to help you choose.

12
Haraz Coffee House image 1

Coffee shop with Yemeni art decor and warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for working or casual meetings. Fast Wi-Fi and comfortable seating support long stays, while the vibe encourages quiet conversation and focus.

Masala chai tastes authentic and stands out. Samosas vary; some are good, but others have a stretchy texture or get warmed in a microwave, making them smooshy. Staff correct orders when pointed out.

Authentic masala chai stands out with a taste reminiscent of home. The selection includes Adeni Chai and other teas that are tasty and interesting, often preferred over coffee.

People are saying

"The cardamom coffee here is intense and addictive."

"The chai here is strong, flavorful, and intensely spiced."

"I tried the Indian food, and the samosa was really good."

Good to know

1

Haraz hosts cultural events and music nights, showcasing Yemeni traditions.

2

Parking can be tricky due to its location in San Francisco.

3

Expect high prices, with lattes costing around $8.

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