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Local picks in San Jose

Unique curry spots

Made for those who seek out unconventional flavor profiles in their curry and gravitate toward kitchens that defy standard expectations.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Suvai Taste of India image 1
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Bold orange-and-red decor and brass cutlery create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere with a spacious layout. Music plays softly, adding a calming, refined vibe without overpowering conversation. Seating is comfortable and the environment feels clean and high-class.

Menu features unique dishes spanning from Andhra to Kanyakumari. The paratha dipped in curry stands out as a distinctive choice.

Curries here have unique distinct tastes with a focus on non-vegetarian options like fish curry, mutton curry, and goat curry that come out authentic and well-balanced. Dishes like Chicken Biryani, Butter Chicken, and Tandoori Chicken complement the curries well.

People are saying

"I thought the curry here was the best Indian food Iโ€™ve had outside India."

"I enjoyed the lunch buffet here; it was great."

"You have to try their unique paratha dipped in curry."

Good to know

1

They offer a weekday buffet for $19.99 with a variety of options.

2

The buffet includes free naan and bread.

3

They have a discount on prices until 9/21 due to their opening.

02
Mazala Pizza San Jose image 1
Pizza restaurant

Outdoor seating creates a cozy, lively atmosphere with casual, welcoming energy. Vibrant red pizza boxes feature interactive designs that add a playful touch. The place stands out for its unique Indian-flavored thin crust pizzas and family-owned, small business vibe.

Bold spices create a unique twist on traditional pizza. Cheese and veggie options feature distinctive flavor combinations not found everywhere.

Pizza features a strong curry flavor that stands out. Curry is applied generously, sometimes overwhelming the other toppings.

People are saying

"I found the unique Indian flavors here to be a delicious fusion."

"It's a great late night spot for affordable and tasty pizza."

"I've never had curry pizza this tasty with such a yummy sauce."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays offer 50% off on all orders.

2

Mazala Pizza is pick-up only with no seating available.

3

The restaurant is open until 3:30 AM for late-night cravings.

03
Dr. Funk image 1
Tiki bar

Tiki bar with elaborate decor that transports guests to faraway lands, featuring detailed interior and exterior themes including holiday touches. Atmosphere is vibrant and intimate, with outdoor seating and fireplace adding to the experience. Drinks focus on world-class tiki cocktails with a strong emphasis on rum.

Outdoor seating creates a hidden oasis vibe. Drinks stand out with an extensive and unique menu that rates strength from one to three X's, featuring creative options like the Phoenix Rising cocktail.

Loaded fries come with actual curry sauce, making them flavorful but soggy. The vegan and mushroom curries offer good flavor, though the mushroom curry has more sauce than substance.

People are saying

"This tiki bar has a really fun and unique atmosphere."

"The curry fries and flaming mezcal drink were amazing."

"The drinks here are unique, creative, and pack a punch."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made on OpenTable for a guaranteed spot.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesday with discounted drinks.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere on weekends; arrive early to secure a seat.

04
Saapaaduu image 1
Indian restaurant

Restaurant combines contemporary elegance with traditional South Indian decor featuring brass and gold-plated utensils. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with tasteful background music enhancing the dining experience. Seating is tight and cramped, creating a bustling environment during busy times.

Serving plates, bowls, and cutleries show an innovative design that adds a unique touch. The Vegetarian Chatti Chori stands out with its flavorful mix of rice, curries, fried vada, pickle, beets raita, and sambhar.

South Indian mutton curry features deep earthy spices and slow-cooked techniques with profuse, perfectly cooked meat. Other curries like rasam, sambhar, and avial complement the rustic, flavorful dishes well.

People are saying

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

"I found the menu to have unique South Indian dishes."

"The Chettinad Chicken Curry is bold and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special events like the Pongal lunch due to high demand.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak times; arrive early if possible.

3

Walk-in customers may face long wait times or seating issues.

05
Talab image 1
Indian restaurant

Modern decor creates a calm and inviting atmosphere with boutique decorations and minimal indoor seating. Space feels cozy yet well-maintained, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. Live streaming of NFL games adds a unique touch to the experience.

Food blends Bengali and Awadhi cuisine with a distinct native touch. Appetizers like the whole fish pomfret fry and Egg Devil offer unique takes on classic dishes.

Curry here tastes authentic and avoids typical restaurant shortcuts like added curry powder or cream. Dishes like Bengali mustard fish curry and Mutton Dak Bungalow stand out for their bold flavors and traditional preparation.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Bengali food; it felt like home."

"The food here has a unique, distinct native touch."

"I loved the authentic Bengali food, especially the Prawn malai curry."

Good to know

1

On Fridays to Sundays, the menu expands to include a wider selection of rare Bengali dishes.

2

Happy hour menu is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Not all dishes from their extensive menu are available despite visiting on a Friday night.

06
Laksana Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Elegant interior features gigantic gold chandeliers and traditional Thai decor creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The space attracts a business crowd and suits relaxed social gatherings with an upscale vibe. Outdoor seating adds a refined option for dining.

Food offers a very unique taste with dishes like the vegetarian Kao Soi that few Thai places serve. Presentation adds a unique flair creating a distinct dining experience.

Curries come with generous portions and rich flavors like the panang curry and mussaman curry. Dishes like green curry and coconut milk soup add variety alongside standout options like drunken noodles.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and unique, especially the vegetarian options."

"They have a separate vegetarian menu with lots of unique options."

"The Thai food here has a unique taste and presentation."

Good to know

1

There is an 18% service charge for groups of 1 to 5 people.

2

Finding parking is difficult; expect to wait for a spot.

3

They have a separate vegetarian menu with good options.

07
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant combines live DJ performances and fire dancers to create an energetic atmosphere with upbeat music. Interior features modern dรฉcor and ambient lighting, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed environment. Tables are placed closely, contributing to a lively but less intimate setting.

Melt-in-your-mouth Avocado & Paneer Galouti stands out as a unique dish. A distinctive cocktail menu complements the full bar, creating a different vibe than most Indian restaurants.

Jackfruit curry and galouti kebab stand out with rich flavors. Goat curry is tender and deeply savory. Garlic naan and cheese naans complement silky vegetable and butternut squash chicken curries well.

People are saying

"The food here is fabulous, creative, and flavorful."

"The food here is so creative and full of authentic Indian flavors with a modern twist."

"The goat curry was tender and rich with authentic flavor."

Good to know

1

FITOOR has a belly dance performance on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

2

On weekends, they have a DJ and belly dancers.

3

A belly dancer performs on Fridays and Saturdays with a live DJ.

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San Jose, California

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