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Top picks in San Jose

Vegetarian Indian food

Vegetarian Indian dishes that stand on their own merit instead of feeling like a secondary option.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Meenakshi Bhavan image 1
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Indian restaurant

Simple, clean dining space offers a cozy, homely atmosphere with a vibe that recalls early 2000s India. The place attracts those seeking authentic South Indian vegetarian flavors, especially dosa and Thali meals. It stands out as a top choice for genuine, uncompromised Indian tastes in an area with limited options.

Dosas and idlis stand out with varieties like onion tomato utthapam and mysore masala dosa. Combos include well-portioned meals with idli, lunch portions, and sweets like pineapple kesari. The vegetable biryani pairs well with yogurt sauce, and thali and Madras parotta offer solid options.

Offers excellent South Indian vegetarian food with a focus on home-style dishes. The Thali stands out as a notable vegetarian option.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the dosa, is warm, hot, and ready to eat."

"I enjoyed the strong, hot filter coffee."

"Their South Indian vegetarian food is authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices are highly affordable, making it a great value.

3

The place is less crowded, resulting in shorter wait times.

02
Everest Cuisine-San Jose image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, cozy space with modest decor and bright overhead lights creates a clean, comfortable setting. Warm hospitality and cheerful music contribute to a welcoming, lively atmosphere. Known for authentic Indian flavors and popular momos, it draws regulars seeking genuine Indo-Chinese dishes.

Garlic Naan stands out with its rich flavor. The dal makhani offers a creamy, satisfying taste. Tandoori momos and butter chicken are popular dishes. Mango Lassi is smooth and refreshing.

An extensive menu offers high-quality vegetarian and vegan options including authentic Momos that stand out in the area. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes cater well to diverse dietary needs.

People are saying

"I found the food to be awesome and authentic."

"I found the Indian food here to be absolutely tasty."

"They have plenty of vegetarian options available."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant serves a mix of Indian, Nepalese, and Chinese cuisines.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with music until late at night.

03
Dawaat Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious interior with wheelchair accessibility and bright, clean surroundings creates a comfortable dining space. Atmosphere stays quiet and cozy, suitable for relaxed meals or casual celebrations. Patrons often enjoy the homey vibe paired with well-prepared Indian dishes.

Goat Biryani offers generous meat and a premium taste. The butter chicken features a rich sauce paired with perfect naan for scooping. Crispy samosas and tandori roti complement the menu with authentic flavors.

Lots of vegetarian options fill the menu, including dishes like Gobi Manchurian. Several new vegetarian entrees impress with their flavors and variety.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with authentic flavor and tastes super fresh."

"The Indian food here is bursting with authentic flavor."

"The vegetarian options here are brilliant and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a wide entrance accessible for wheelchairs.

2

The parking lot is huge, making it easy to find parking.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

04
Badoota image 1
Indian restaurant

Cloud kitchen offers authentic Karnataka-style Donne Biryani with pickup only on Saturday nights. The vibe is focused and efficient, with a pre-order system to manage limited availability. Food delivers distinctive regional flavors rarely found elsewhere in the area.

Specializes in Bangalore-style Donne Biryani with options like Chicken and Mutton that are aromatic and well-cooked. Weekly specials include dishes like Hoskote Mutton Biryani and fresh jackfruit biryani, alongside other items such as Puliyogare and Baby Corn Kabab.

Vegetarian options include jackfruit Biryani with meaty chunks and avarekai biryani. Other dishes like melkote puliyogre and baby corn chilli also stand out.

People are saying

"The Donne Biryani here tastes like Bengaluru."

"This takeout biryani is delicious and reminds me of childhood memories."

"This Indian food's Donne biryani tastes like Bangalore."

Good to know

1

Badoota operates as a cloud kitchen with no dine-in option, only offering pickup on Saturdays.

2

Pre-ordering is recommended to avoid sold out items, especially before Friday.

3

Pickup is available only on Saturday nights, so plan accordingly.

05
Suvai Taste of India image 1

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.

Chicken tikka masala and butter chicken feature rich, well-spiced gravies. The Dindugul Venu Biryani and 65 biryani offer authentic, flavorful rice dishes. Non oily whole wheat roti and free naan accompany meals, while onion pakora stands out as a crispy appetizer.

Dosa restaurant offers very good vegetarian options alongside meat dishes. Vegetarian tiffen items and Veg Biryani stand out with perfect spice and aroma.

People are saying

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

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

"The Vegetarian dishes here are fresh, flavorful, and simply excellent."

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.

06
Lahori Restaurant image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers authentic Pakistani cuisine with reasonable prices and complimentary tea. The setting is cozy and intimate, suited more for romantic dinners than group gatherings. It operates as a self-service, hole-in-the-wall spot with a casual vibe.

Seekh kabab, chicken tikka masala, and fish pakora stand out with rich flavors. Biryani options include goat, chicken, and vegetable varieties, paired well with naan and chai.

Lahori chana vegan stands out, served with onion and cucumber salads. Vegi Korma also features as a popular choice among vegetarian dishes.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is flavorful, with amazing biryani and naan."

"I found the Lahori food here to be unbelievably authentic and home-like."

"I loved the vegetarian chana masala and veg biryani."

Good to know

1

It is a self-service dine-in place.

2

The prices at Lahori Restaurant are extremely reasonable compared to Bay Area standards.

3

The portion sizes are very generous.

07
Tandoori Pizza - San Jose image 1

Nicely decorated space with outdoor seating and a wide seating area creates a comfortable spot to chill with friends. The atmosphere blends a bar-like vibe with lively, comfortable energy, enhanced by Punjabi hip-hop and Indian music playing alongside sports on TV.

Tandoori chicken and Achari paneer top the Indian-style pizza options here. The pizzas feature tender crusts with bold Indian flavors like Butter Chicken and Chilli Paneer.

Curry Veggies Delight and Malai Paneer Pizza offer tasty vegetarian options, with the latter being mild and non-spicy. The kitchen keeps strict separation between vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

People are saying

"The pizza here is amazing, thanks to Husn's great service."

"This Indian food is amazing, especially the rich, creamy Butter Chicken pizza."

"I loved the Chilli Paneer Pizza, it's a great Vegetarian choice."

Good to know

1

Dining-in is only available until 10 PM; after that, only takeout is offered.

2

Expect long wait times; my order took 1 hour and 15 minutes.

3

Parking can be difficult around the area.

08
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.

Soft rumali roti stands out with its unique texture and quality. Dishes like Tawa Sukka Biryani and pallipalayam chicken offer balanced masalas that keep meals light yet flavorful.

Vegetarian options include the Vegetarian Chatti Chori, a mix of rice, curries, fried vada, pickle, beets raita, and sambhar. Roattukadai kalan offers street-style mushrooms cooked with onions, peppers, and spices, and Kal Dosa with Vadakari features a thick rice and lentil pancake with a tomato-based gravy and lentil fritters, available vegan.

People are saying

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

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

"The Indian food, especially the biryanis and dosas, is a must-try."

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.

09
Shan Tandoori Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers a lively, diner-like atmosphere with TV and bright lighting but no background music. The place stays busy and features comfortable booths despite some wear. It serves Indian-style pizzas with unique toppings and has beer on tap for dine-in guests.

Tandoori chicken pizza and chicken tikka masala pizza stand out with strong flavors and aromas. Lamb pizza offers a slightly richer taste, and tandoori wings complement the Indian pizza options well.

Spicy vegetarian pizza stands out with its bold flavors and excellent quality. Vegetarian pizzas, including chili paneer, offer superb options for those avoiding meat.

People are saying

"I found the pizza to be delicious and full of flavor."

"I found the Indian food pizza to be delicious."

"I found the vegetarian pizzas to be superb."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a dine-in option with beers on tap.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

Parking is available in the shopping center lot.

10
ID Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Courtyard seating invites casual dining with open-air tables and soft lighting creating a cozy, stylish vibe. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, especially around dinner time, blending modern design with authentic Indian aromas. Known for flavorful dosas, the place offers a unique selection that stands out in the area.

Dosas stand out with unique and tasty fillings and a good spicy kick in some options. The menu offers a mix of classic and signature Indian dishes, including flavorful non-veg dosas and fresh coconut chutney.

Many dishes come with vegan options that are flavorful and spicy. Karaikudi Dosa features plant-based Beyond Meat, and staff often customize vegan dosas to preferences.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and perfectly spiced."

"I considered this Indian food to have the best dosa."

"They have flavorful, spicy vegetarian options that can be made to your preferences."

Good to know

1

The cafe usually gets busy around 6:30 pm.

2

ID Cafe is located inside San Pedro Square Market.

3

The food hall setup means drinks are from a separate stall.

11
Punjab Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Small storefront offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with vibrant colors and rich Indian spice aromas. Music plays at a comfortable volume, creating a no-frills, clean environment. Known for excellent butter chicken and tandoori rotis, it draws those seeking flavorful Indian dishes.

Spicy butter chicken comes with garlic naan that is light and airy yet sturdy. Chicken tikka masala features a rich, flavorful sauce with gentle spicy warmth. Chicken and lamb biryani offer deep, satisfying flavors. Vegetable samosas have a perfect crisp exterior and fluffy interior. Tandoori rotis stand out as very well prepared.

Many vegetarian options appear in the buffet, which also includes vegan and non-vegetarian dishes. The vegetarian fare offers a variety of flavors that stand out alongside other menu items.

People are saying

"I experienced the best Indian buffet with great variety and flavor."

"The garlic naan is thin, buttery, and dangerously easy to keep eating."

"I thought the Indian food here was amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Lunch buffets are offered from Friday to Sunday.

2

The weekend buffet is affordable and offers a variety of options.

3

Vegetarian options are plentiful on the menu.

12
The Second wife - Indian Restaurant image 1

Spacious interior with vibrant colors and comfortable seating creates a pleasant dining environment. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and family-friendly to occasionally cold and quiet. Known for authentic North Indian food, including standout dishes like daal and chicken tikka masala.

Mango lassi stands out as a fantastic drink here. The biryani options, including chicken and goat, come with proper condiments and rich flavors. Daal and chicken tikka masala deliver strong, memorable tastes. Snacks like palak pakora and bhajiyas add variety rarely seen at buffets.

Buffet includes a delicious spread of vegetarian dishes with flavorful curries and fresh naan. Menu offers a wide variety of vegetarian options alongside other choices.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's authentic Indian food is rich in flavor."

"This Indian food tastes genuinely homemade, rich and balanced."

"The Vegetarian service here is so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

The buffet price is $29 per adult and $19 per child.

2

Expect a 20% gratuity added automatically for parties of 6 or more.

3

Limited vegetarian options are available on the buffet.

13
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.

Butter chicken stands out with a perfect spice kick and pairs well with cumin rice and garlic naan. Chicken dum Biryani offers a flavorful mix served with yogurt dip, while Daal Makhani delivers a butter-heavy, tasty flavor.

Vegetarian dishes feature Paneer and Mix veg korma with robust flavors and satisfying textures. Most options lean vegetarian, though some chicken and seafood are available.

People are saying

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

"The Indian food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The vegetarian mains here are consistently delicious and flavorful."

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.

14
Sri's Kitchen Indian Restaurant image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall Indian restaurant with traditional decor and comfortable seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Spiritual and religious music adds to the cozy, homely vibe. Casual, cafeteria-style setup with self-serve water and utensils complements the relaxed energy.

Menu offers a great variety of South Indian dishes like dosas, idli, vada, and thalis. Crispy dosas come with rich sambar and tangy chutneys. Samosas stand out with a flavorful, buttery Pav Bhaji and creamy Dal Makhani also available.

Offers authentic, flavorful, and freshly prepared South Indian vegetarian dishes with a variety of home-style options. Also provides a strong selection of vegan dishes.

People are saying

"The food here tastes authentic, fresh, and comforting."

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

"I loved the authentic, flavorful vegetarian dishes here."

Good to know

1

Sri's Kitchen offers affordable, simple, home-cooked food.

2

The prices at Sri's Kitchen are very reasonable by Bay Area standards.

3

Catering services are available for events.

15
Haveli Kabab & Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Decor reflects a traditional Punjab home with tapestries and sequined curtains, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Seating includes traditional manje cots and regular chairs, accommodating both casual and group dining. Energy varies from peaceful family-friendly to lively with DJ and karaoke events.

Garlic naan stands out with a strong flavor and often comes free with butter chicken. The tandoori fish tikka is tender and juicy, served hot. Dishes like kadahi paneer, dal makhani, and chicken dum biryani show balanced spices and rich aromas.

Buffet includes many vegetarian options alongside non-vegetarian dishes. Shareable thalis feature vibrant, flavorful vegetarian plates.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with rich flavors."

"The warm, inviting ambiance here makes the Indian food feel special."

"The vegetarian food here feels like it came straight from a village kitchen."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available daily until 2:30 pm, except on Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed.

2

A 20% surcharge applies for large parties without prior notice.

3

The kid's menu offers both Indian and American cuisine options.

16
8Elements image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy setting with generous portions and a wide variety of Indian dishes, including standout South Indian options. Atmosphere feels inviting and relaxed, with reasonable prices and good service. Lunch buffet offers plentiful vegetarian and non-vegetarian selections.

Goat curry and roti stand out with rich flavors. The menu features crispy dosas with tangy sambar and coconut chutney, along with butter chicken and saag paneer that offer classic tastes. A variety of dishes cover both south and north Indian cuisine, including biryanis and flavorful curries.

A daily lunch buffet offers a wide range of vegetarian options alongside meat dishes. The Avial, a South Indian vegetable stew in coconut milk, stands out as a flavorful choice.

People are saying

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

"The buffet had a great variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options."

"I loved the variety of vegetarian options, like curries and samosas."

Good to know

1

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

2

The lunch buffet costs $16 from Monday to Thursday.

3

Expect an 18% service charge for parties of four or more.

17
Emperor of India image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian buffet with a friendly atmosphere and soothing modern music. Offers a variety of spiced dishes including standout items like butter chicken and saag paneer. Typically busy with a pleasant, clean environment.

The menu offers a large variety of spiced dishes including butter chicken with basmati rice, saag paneer, and Bhindi Masala. The naan, especially the cheese garlic naan, stands out for its quality and flavor.

Dinner includes a large menu with tandoori options and plenty of vegetarian dishes. The vegetarian selections are wonderful and varied.

People are saying

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

"The buffet's naan is addictive and the gravy is incredible."

"I found plenty of vegetarian options, including about six choices on the buffet."

Good to know

1

The buffet offers around 8-10 items, including dessert.

2

Vegetarian options are available in the buffet.

3

Prices at the buffet are considered reasonable by some.

18
B3Boyz Dhaba image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Small modern Indian restaurant serves food on traditional banana leaves, creating an authentic dining experience. Atmosphere is pleasant and clean but can feel cold. Popular for authentic Tamilian dishes and flavorful biriyani, with many takeout orders limiting seating.

Biryani here stands out with authentic flavors like Ambur Mutton, Chennai Chicken, and Hyderabadi Dum styles. Weekend buffets offer a variety including Tandoori Fish, Paneer, and vegetarian biryanis served fresh by the chef.

Vegetarian options include a vegetarian biryani with soybean and a vegetarian thali. Buffets have limited vegetarian dishes but staff serve fresh vegetarian curries, rice, and biryani on request.

People are saying

"The fish fry here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

"The Indian food, especially the biryani, is amazing."

"The vegetarian biryani here is authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they offer buffets in the morning with lots of options.

2

The restaurant offers unlimited meals during the buffet.

3

Parking can be challenging; you may need to park across the street.

19
Kokila's Kitchen Catering & Cakes image 1

Small space combines cozy atmosphere with a takeaway-focused setup that includes some dine-in tables. The vibe is inviting and comfortable, encouraging guests to linger despite the tight quarters. Known for authentic Indian flavors, especially standout biryanis and flavorful pulavs.

Biryani stands out with bold flavors and perfectly cooked, aromatic rice infused with rich spices. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options like mutton dum biryani, chicken biryani, and paneer biryani offer a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Vegetarian options include a balanced thali with taste, variety, and nutrition. Vegetarian biryani offers bold flavors and pairs well with roti or naan for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"It tastes truly homemade, fresh, and authentic."

"The Indian food biryani is so flavorful and aromatic."

"The vegetarian biryani here is cooked to perfection with bold flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Rice is sold separately from curries, so plan accordingly.

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