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Butter chicken spots in Chicago

Made for those who seek the complex, layered spice profiles of traditional butter chicken and refuse to settle for watered-down versions.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kathmandu Cafe image 1
Kathmandu Cafe image 2
Kathmandu Cafe image 3
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Restaurant

Restaurant offers spacious, well-lit interior with cute Nepalese decorations creating a welcoming, authentic atmosphere. Seating is informal and can fill quickly, with no outdoor area currently available. Menu features flavorful momos and comforting dishes, attracting a diverse crowd seeking quality meals until late evening.

Steam momo comes out fresh and juicy with a clear authentic taste. Chowmein also holds a strong authentic flavor true to its roots.

Warm and comforting, the butter chicken pairs well with garlic naan. It offers a rich flavor that stands out among main dishes like butter paneer and chicken tikka.

People are saying

"I found the mango lassi to be wonderful."

"I found the Butter Chicken so comforting and delicious."

"I found the steam momo to be fresh, juicy, and authentic."

Good to know

1

Kathmandu Cafe offers a lunch special box that is convenient for on-the-go meals.

2

The restaurant is open until 10pm on weekdays and 11pm on weekends.

3

Expect a variety of plates, including vegetarian options.

02
The Little Sherpa image 1
Indian restaurant

Small dining space blends modern and traditional decor with soft Nepali music creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Generous portions of authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes attract those seeking homely flavors. Patrons often bring their own beer, which staff serve without issue.

Flavors stay true to traditional Nepali cooking with a home cooked feel and authentic Himalayan spices. The C momo stands out as a genuine taste of Nepal.

Rich and creamy, the butter chicken stands out for its excellent flavor and pairs well with garlic naan. It arrives hot and is often highly recommended.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, spicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the Nepali food here to be authentic and homely."

"I thought the butter chicken was some of the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available just in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

3

The menu clearly indicates vegan and non-vegan dishes.

03
Hyderabad Kitchen - Dining image 1

Cozy restaurant blends traditional and modern decor with soft lighting and curtained family seating for privacy. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, creating a relaxed dining experience. Regulars come for authentic Hyderabadi cuisine and flavorful biryani.

Dishes showcase authentic Hyderabadi flavors with great quality and taste. The menu delivers a true hydro-Indian experience through delicious, traditional recipes.

Rich and creamy texture defines the butter chicken here. It carries a flavorful and satisfying taste that stands out among other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, authentic, and packed with rich flavor."

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

"The Butter Chicken here is rich, creamy, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a big lot and on the street.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for tandoori chicken as it's made to order.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options.

04
Curry Kitchen image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a cozy, homely atmosphere with soft lighting and great music creating a relaxing vibe. The space is beautiful and very clean, featuring a large bar area and views of downtown through front windows. It attracts those seeking authentic Nepali and Indian comfort food served in distinctive copper bowls.

Nepali and Indian dishes deliver authentic flavor with every bite. The momo, chowmin, and thali offer deeply satisfying and fresh tastes true to their origins.

Rich, melt-in-your-mouth butter chicken stands out with deep flavor. It pairs well with Naan and offers a satisfying curry experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The momos here are full of authentic Nepali flavor."

"The butter chicken here is melt-in-your-mouth delicious and rich."

Good to know

1

The restaurant currently operates as BYOB until they obtain their license.

2

There is easy street parking available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant can accommodate almost 100 people at once.

05
Himalayan Sherpa kitchen image 1
Nepalese restaurant

Small Nepalese restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with soft Nepali music and a quiet, peaceful vibe. Decor hides the old, rundown building, creating a warm, friendly space where people feel comfortable chatting. The place feels like a hidden gem for authentic, soulful Nepalese cuisine.

Food bursts with authentic flavors true to traditional Nepali cuisine. The momo stands out as a very authentic dish with genuine taste.

Rich, creamy sauce defines the butter chicken here. The dish stands out for its incredible flavor and is often noted as one of the best in the area.

People are saying

"I found the flavors to be authentic and full of traditional taste."

"The aromatic Masala Chai here is perfect for a cold, rainy day."

"I found the butter chicken to be incredible."

Good to know

1

All meat is halal.

2

They offer discounts to UIC students.

3

Expect large portions; one naan can serve the whole table.

06
Mr Tandoor image 1
Restaurant

Tiny restaurant with warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly, family-oriented vibe. Tastefully furnished space features a unique art wall that adds character. Casual setting draws those seeking high-quality Indian cuisine in a peaceful environment.

Freshly baked naan pairs with rich curries that carry authentic desi flavors. The food balances spice well, offering flavorful Pakistani and Indian dishes true to their roots.

Creamy perfection defines the butter chicken here, rich with flavorful spices and a smooth texture. It pairs well with garlic naan and stands out alongside dishes like tandoori chicken and goat.

People are saying

"The food here tastes amazing and reminds me of home."

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

"I found the butter chicken to be really good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to order as wait times can be long.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes, suitable for sharing.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other Indian restaurants in the area.

07
MAJESTIC burger halal express image 1

Casual restaurant offers authentic Hyderabadi cuisine with generous portions and flavorful dishes like biryani and haleem. Warm, welcoming atmosphere feels comforting and home-like. Open late, it suits those seeking hearty meals after evening outings.

Lamb mandi and haleem deliver authentic Hyderabadi flavors with rich taste and barkat. Biryani and dhaba style dishes also reflect genuine Hyderabadi culinary traditions.

Generous portions of butter chicken come with a lot of flavor and a unique taste. The dish stands out for its exceptional quality.

People are saying

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

"This biryani is so flavorful and aromatic, you'll love it."

"I found the Butter Chicken to be exceptional and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 2am, perfect for late-night dining.

2

Prices are reasonable, offering good value for the portion sizes.

3

Halal options are available for those who require them.

08
Cumin Restaurant - Lakeview image 1

Modern interior blends Nepali handmade arts and crafts with a spacious layout that feels both upscale and comfortable. Atmosphere stays calm and friendly with good music enhancing the relaxing vibe. Separate event space accommodates larger groups without crowding the main dining area.

Food delivers true authenticity with flavors matching those found in Nepal and India. Dishes maintain genuine taste profiles that reflect traditional recipes.

Butter Chicken features rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken pieces. Quality varies by location, with one spot offering authentic, flavorful Butter Chicken and another serving a watered-down version with just chicken breast cubes.

People are saying

"The chicken and lamb keema samosas were delicious, especially with the sauces."

"The food here tastes authentic, like being back in Nepal."

"I found the butter chicken to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Cumin offers a flavorful Indian-Nepali dining experience within a warm and modern setting.

2

The portion sizes are a bit small, but they prioritize quality over quantity.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups.

09
Adda Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Soft lighting and jazz piano create a cozy, antique atmosphere with a lively vibe. Spacious seating includes booths and a bar with a full display of drinks. The setting suits date nights and casual dining with a pleasant neighborhood view.

Food bursts with authentic flavors, perfectly spiced and fresh. Kerala chicken with butter naan delivers a genuine Indian gravy taste.

Rich, creamy sauce with perfect spice balance defines the butter chicken here. It comes with a thick, heavily spiced sauce that stands out from plain versions.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, I'm still thinking about it."

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

"The Butter Chicken here is creamy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Adda Indian Cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.

2

Gluten-free friendly dishes are available at Adda Indian Cuisine.

3

Parking is plentiful and available on the street near the restaurant.

10
Ghareeb Nawaz image 1
Restaurant

Small, cafeteria-style restaurant with minimal decor and a casual, cozy setup. Atmosphere is friendly and chill, with kitchen sounds audible and a mix of smells. Offers inexpensive, hearty portions of northern Indian and Afghani dishes.

Food offers fresh, authentic Pakistani and North Indian flavors. Dishes taste deliciously authentic and reflect traditional recipes well.

Creamy, tender, and flavorful, the butter chicken features lots of meat and a reasonable spice level. It comes with plenty of sauce and offers a wholesome, delicious taste at an affordable price.

People are saying

"I loved their butter chicken; it was so flavorful and buttery."

"I found the butter chicken to be great and flavorful."

"I found the food to be fresh, authentic, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available for $4.99, allowing two people to eat for under $20.

2

The restaurant is known for its large portion sizes compared to the price.

3

Expect a small dining room; parties larger than four may be uncomfortable.

11
MOMO FACTORY (Lake View) image 1
Nepalese restaurant

Small, simple Nepalese counter-serve spot with a homey feel and lively atmosphere. Lighting is dim and dรฉcor is sparse but the space stays clean and bright. Known for authentic momos and a wide variety of flavorful dishes, it attracts those seeking quick, affordable comfort food.

Authentic momos stand out with consistent flavor and quality. The chicken bowl and chicken dishes also deliver genuine tastes true to their origins.

Butter chicken here tastes a bit sweet and comes as a curry. It arrives in about 10 minutes and pairs well with dishes like steamed paneer dumplings.

People are saying

"These dumplings are so delicious and freshly cooked."

"I found the momos here to be authentic and super delicious."

"I found the Butter Chicken to be awesome and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups due to limited seating.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited.

12
Nawaz Gulshan image 1
Indian restaurant

Cozy space with a laid-back vibe offers authentic Hyderabadi biryani and flavorful shawarma. Atmosphere feels like a neighborhood spot with friendly service and a clean kitchen. Known for affordable prices and generous portions.

Food features rich, authentic flavors true to Hyderabadi cuisine. Dishes like Mutton Biriyani and shawarma taste homemade and balanced without excess oil or masala.

Creamy butter chicken features prominently on the menu alongside other flavorful dishes. Some versions come off as greasy and thin, while others maintain an authentic, rich taste.

People are saying

"The Indian food, especially the biryani, is aromatic and flavorful."

"The flavors here are rich and taste just like home."

"The Butter Chicken here is tender, well-seasoned, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

2

Cash and credit cards are accepted for payment.

3

The kitchen is noted for its cleanliness and hygiene standards.

13
Rickshaw Pakistani & Indian Street Eats image 1

Custom murals from a local artist decorate the space, creating a unique visual backdrop. The atmosphere is straightforward and clean, with no background music to fill the quiet. The menu offers large portions of halal Pakistani and Indian street food at very reasonable prices, attracting those seeking authentic flavors and good value.

Karachi bun kebabs deliver a street food vibe straight from Karachi. Tea comes plain, without masala or sugar, unlike typical South Indian styles. Food offers authentic flavors but freshness and value vary.

Butter chicken comes with large portions and pairs well with rice or paratha. It features fresh, flavorful chicken and offers great taste worth the price.

People are saying

"This Indian food's biryani is emotional and the best I've ever tasted."

"The Butter Chicken here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is amazing and truly authentic with incredible flavors."

Good to know

1

The biryani costs $11 and can provide 2-4 meals.

2

Naan is priced at $2 each, which is reasonable for the quality.

3

There is paid parking available on both sides of the restaurant.

14
Kabab King Grill Fine Dinning image 1

Kebab shop offers a charming traditional ambiance with a warm and welcoming vibe. The atmosphere feels cozy and simple, attracting those who appreciate authentic grilled dishes. Cash-only policy and reasonable prices are typical here.

Dishes showcase authentic Hyderabadi flavors with rich, satisfying tastes. The Mutton Dum Biryani and Irani chai stand out for their genuine, traditional profiles and generous portions.

Rich, creamy butter chicken stands out with a flavorful sauce and tender chicken. It pairs well with roti and complements other dishes like mutton and kebabs.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The biryani here is so authentic and aromatic."

"I found the Butter Chicken incredible and still watering my mouth."

Good to know

1

They offer a buffet on Fridays for $17.

2

They have a weekly Sunday special of keema khichdi.

3

The restaurant is open till late at night.

15
Rangoli Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious interior features simple, elegant decor with authentic artwork and plush pillows creating a cozy, pleasant atmosphere. Music adds to the vibe, and copper and brass glassware enhance the dining experience. The place is BYOB and suits quiet dinners or family meals.

Intense, authentic Indian flavors define the menu with a wide array of dishes. The decorations create a setting that transports you straight to India.

Creamy and comforting, the butter chicken features an awesome gravy that stands out. It sometimes comes served on a fresh homemade dosa with delicious chutney and sambar.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and perfectly seasoned."

"The authentic Indian flavors here are intense and sublime."

"The butter chicken here is creamy, comforting, and exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

2

Dosa night is a popular event, so arrive early for a good seat.

3

The menu offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

16
Masala Magic Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Bangladeshi cuisine with Zabiha halal meat and large portions at affordable prices. Atmosphere feels homey and welcoming with a mosque in the basement for prayer. Busy and casual setting with free parking and an elegant yet simple design.

Masala curry stands out with its authentic masala flavor and style. Aloo Samosa does not match traditional authenticity.

Rich and creamy butter chicken pairs well with garlic naan. The dish stands out alongside other curries like goat and Talawa Ghost.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"I highly recommend the butter chicken; it was delicious."

"I thought the dishes were authentic in style."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, the restaurant is a nice spot to pray Jummah and grab food.

2

There is a mosque located in the basement of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers zabiha halal food.

17
VAJRA image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant features split dining area with one side offering warm, inviting ambiance ideal for dates and the other a family-friendly feel. The space includes big tables for groups and a beautiful bar with elegant decoration. Noise levels are low, making conversation difficult at times.

Flavors stay true to traditional Indian cooking with authentic taste and balanced spice levels. Consistent quality keeps the dishes delicious and genuine every time.

Smooth and creamy texture defines the Butter Chicken here. It pairs well with garlic Naan and delivers a rich, delicious flavor.

People are saying

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

"The Butter Chicken here is so creamy and delicious."

"The authentic flavors here are bursting with delicious spice."

Good to know

1

The bar opens at 4 pm from Wednesday to Sunday for happy hour until 6 pm.

2

VAJRA is currently a takeout-only restaurant.

3

The lunch buffet offers a great deal for the price.

18
Ghareeb Nawaz UIC image 1
Indian restaurant

Small Indian restaurant with huge portions and very reasonable prices attracts budget-conscious diners. Interior is no-frills and cramped, creating a basic and somewhat dull atmosphere. Friendly environment includes a prayer corner, adding a cultural touch.

Food stays authentic and fresh with a focus on affordable Indian Pakistani dishes. The place keeps it simple, serving good, no-frills meals that maintain traditional flavors.

Rich, flavorful butter chicken features tender chicken with a spicy but balanced sauce. Served often as a rice bowl, the portion size matches the price well.

People are saying

"The food here is incredibly affordable and the portions are generous."

"I found the food here to be amazingly fresh and authentic."

"I thought the Butter Chicken was the best dish I had."

Good to know

1

Each dish can easily feed 3 people because of its size.

2

One chicken biryani costs between $8 and $10.

3

Ghareeb Nawaz UIC is halal.

19
New Zaiqa image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers warm, welcoming ambience with a family dining area and a kids' play zone. The atmosphere suits relaxed meals and casual gatherings. Extensive meat selection highlights the menu, especially various biryanis.

Dishes feature intricately spiced flavors true to Hyderabadi and Pakistani traditions. The food offers a fresh taste that stands out among local Indian and Pakistani options.

Butter chicken comes with a rich, creamy sauce that pairs well with garlic naan. It appears alongside dishes like mutton biryani and keema samosas, making it part of a hearty meal.

People are saying

"This biryani is aromatic, flavorful, and satisfying."

"The authentic Hyderabadi flavors here are intricately spiced and packed with rich taste."

"I thought the Butter Chicken here was really good quality."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 3 am, making it ideal for late-night dining.

2

Expect limited menu options, as many items may be unavailable.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but check for any additional fees.

20
Gorkha Kitchen Indian and Nepalese Restuarant image 1

Cozy space with authentic Nepalese vibe and peaceful atmosphere enhanced by Nepali music and a fish tank. Laid-back energy with welcoming owners creates a warm, relaxed environment. Unique as a BYOB Indian restaurant offering a genuine, non-pretentious dining experience.

Food offers authentic Nepalese flavors with perfectly balanced spices and freshness. Chef Bhojraj from Kathmandu ensures the cuisine stays true to its roots, especially in dishes like momos, chowmein, and Thakali foods.

Offers a two-for-one deal on butter chicken that makes it easy to try. The butter chicken is particularly delicious and often paired with garlic naan or momos for a full meal.

People are saying

"The Nepali food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I found the authentic Nepalese food here to be rich and flavorful."

"I thought the Butter Chicken was particularly delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch special before 2 pm is $13.95, including two curries, naan, soda, and dessert.

2

Gorkha Kitchen is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

3

Expect to park about 10 minutes away from the restaurant.

21
Indian Dhaba image 1
Indian restaurant

Small restaurant with a mom and pop vibe and 1950s diner theme offers a colorful, cozy atmosphere that feels welcoming and inviting. The space is clean and bright, capturing the essence of a true Indian roadside dhaba with hearty portions and a chill neighborhood energy.

Food delivers authentic Indian flavors with a homestyle feel. Dishes like laccha paratha bring rich, genuine taste without extra frills or high prices.

Butter chicken comes with a tomato-based gravy similar to common store-bought sauces. It is sometimes prepared fresh but can also be served frozen. Naan often accompanies it, though it may be frozen as well.

People are saying

"The food tasted fresh and was perfectly spiced."

"The food here tastes like it's straight from a home kitchen."

"I thought the Butter Chicken was so good and delicious."

Good to know

1

They have a weekend lunch buffet available.

2

The restaurant is all vegetarian with soy and plant-based options.

3

Prices are comfortable compared to other Indian restaurants.

22
Ali's Nihari & BBQ image 1

Large dining hall offers spacious seating with clean, orderly decor. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and awkward when empty to crowded and noisy during busy times. Occasional Quran recitation adds a unique auditory element.

Nihari here stands out with its authentic Pakistani flavors that closely match those from Karachi. Daal gosht offers a deeply flavorful, desi taste with well-balanced spices and fresh ingredients.

Butter chicken features a balanced masala flavor without being overly creamy. It stands out as a delicious and fiery dish alongside other favorites like lamb chops and biryani.

People are saying

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

"The flavors here are so authentic, they remind me of home."

"The Butter Chicken was quite good with actual masala flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets packed during peak hours, so arrive early.

2

Portions are generous, enough to feed 2-3 people.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a good value for the quality.

23
Naan On Devon & Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere with a chill vibe and warm ambiance reminiscent of a hotel. Guests find the space welcoming and relaxed, suitable for enjoying authentic Hyderabadi cuisine. The setting supports a comfortable dining experience without flashy decor.

Food features authentic Hyderabadi flavors with dishes like goat dum biryani, haleem, and chicken 65. Curries and biryanis serve genuine Indian and Pakistani tastes that come hot and flavorful.

Rich, super flavorful butter chicken stands out with a perfect blend of spices. It pairs well with biryani and lamb chops, making it a highlight of the menu.

People are saying

"Rizwan's hospitality made the Indian food experience so special."

"The biryani here is so authentic, it's like Hyderabadi shaadi ki biryani."

"Their butter chicken is awesome and super flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Friday buffet due to high demand.

2

The buffet costs $20 and offers a limited selection of dishes.

3

A Groupon deal is available for $60 off a meal of $100 or more.

24
Bar.B.Q Tonight image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Spacious restaurant with stunning banquet hall and modern, elegant decor creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Natural light and booth seating add comfort, while background music keeps the vibe relaxed and welcoming. Valet parking enhances convenience for guests.

Chicken Reshmi Kabob delivers the authentic flavor of Karachi with no hint of boxed masalas. BBQ items have a rich, authentic taste that stands out in Pakistani cuisine.

Butter chicken comes with a rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. It pairs well with fresh naan and stands out alongside dishes like Brain Masala and Karahi chicken.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really tasty and delicious."

"The food here has an authentic, rich Karachi taste."

"I thought the Butter Chicken was delicious."

Good to know

1

Biryani is only available on weekends.

2

The restaurant is Zabiha halal certified.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

25
Oberoi's Authentic Indian Food Is temporarily closed. image 1

Indian restaurant offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with a semi fine dining style suited for family meals and casual occasions. The space feels peaceful and welcoming, with a variety of authentic dishes that appeal to diverse tastes.

Authentic Indian cuisine shines with traditional flavors that transport diners to India. The setting blends semi fine dining with affordable prices.

Creamy texture and fresh flavors define the butter chicken here. It pairs well with basmati rice and naan, and sometimes comes with a BOGO deal.

People are saying

"I'm obsessed with how delicious and well-seasoned this Lassi is."

"I found the authentic Indian cuisine here brought me back to India."

"I thought the Butter Chicken sauce tasted only of tomato."

Good to know

1

They now offer a top-notch buffet on Saturday and Sunday starting from 11 am.

2

The food is reasonably priced and portions are big.

3

Oberoi's is a perfect spot for family lunch.

26
Al Halal Zaiqa Restaurant image 1
Indian restaurant

Indian restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with a calm and quiet atmosphere. The space feels neat and clean but can be humid due to limited air circulation. It attracts those seeking authentic desi food in a family-owned setting.

Juicy, flavorful chicken seekh kabab stands out with its authentic taste and perfect grilling. Large portions of authentic desi food come at reasonable prices, delivering genuine Pakistani and Indian flavors.

Rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, the Butter Chicken stands out with its amazing flavor. It pairs well with fresh garlic naan and often comes alongside dishes like Chicken Biryani in combo platters.

People are saying

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

"The chicken biryani here is perfectly spiced and tastes authentic."

"The Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers midnight pizza service for late-night cravings.

2

They only have hand slaughtered AlHamdulillah chicken, ensuring halal options.

3

The restaurant is 100% Zabiha Halal and family owned.

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