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Top picks in Little India

Biryani and Indian food

Made for those who refuse to settle for anything less than a deeply spiced, slow-cooked biryani when they crave Indian cuisine.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mintza South Indian & Kerala cuisine image 1
Mintza South Indian & Kerala cuisine image 2
Mintza South Indian & Kerala cuisine image 3
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Small, unassuming restaurant offers authentic Kerala cuisine with a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The vibe stays relaxed and casual, welcoming quiet conversation. Known for delicious South Indian dishes like dosa and biriyani, it stands out for its genuine flavors.

Rich flavors and perfect cooking define the Kerala Biryani here, with options like mutton, chicken, and shrimp biryani standing out. The biryani pairs well with fresh-made Porottas and is consistently satisfying across visits.

Masala dosa stands out with its perfect texture and rich flavor, especially paired with silky coconut chutney and steaming sambar. The mutton biriyani and beef roast also deliver strong, tasty Indian flavors.

People are saying

"I found the Kerala food here to be really authentic and nice."

"I found the Kerala Indian food here to be absolutely delicious."

"I really enjoyed their rich and flavorful Kerala Biryani."

Good to know

1

Mintza South Indian & Kerala cuisine opens at 7am, making it ideal for early breakfast.

2

Parking can be very limited, so plan to arrive early.

3

The restaurant offers the cheapest masala dosa at $4.99.

02
Ruman Chai Shai & Restaurant(Zabiha Halal) image 1

Small, cozy space with outdoor seating and beautiful decoration creates a welcoming, homely vibe. Atmosphere feels like a Dhaba-style spot where people relax and enjoy authentic Hyderabadi flavors and chai. The place is lively with many visitors, making it less private but perfect for casual gatherings.

Mutton biryani features tender goat and aromatic rice with balanced flavors cooked to perfection. The dish carries a legit Halal heat that stands out distinctly.

Samosa chaat stands out with its sweet yogurt sauce and mix of textures. Biryani offers balanced flavors and precise cooking. Drinks like Mango Lassi complement the spices well.

People are saying

"I found the Irani chai here to be the best in town."

"The Indian food here is flavorful with tender goat and aromatic rice."

"The biryani's flavors are perfectly balanced and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Prices at the counter may differ from those advertised on the menu.

2

Some menu items may take longer to prepare than others.

3

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for money.

03
Thali Corner image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, cozy space with a casual, relaxed vibe and clean, no-frills atmosphere. The place feels charming and passionate about traditional Indian cuisine. It draws people looking for authentic, well-spiced thali and biryani dishes.

Chicken and mutton biryani come with rich flavor and tender meat that falls off the bone. The biryani thali offers a generous portion and includes sides like chicken 65, making it a well-rounded meal.

Masala dosa and onion masala dosa come out light and crispy with generous fillings. Biryani options like chicken and mutton offer rich flavors and tender meat. Vegetable thali includes a variety of spiced vegetables, papad, roti, and rice, all well-prepared.

People are saying

"I found the biryani here to be the best flavored in town."

"The vegetarian thali is huge with many flavorful options."

"The Indian food biryani here is amazing and smoky."

Good to know

1

Tips are cash only.

2

The biryani thali offers a generous portion for the price.

3

Student discount deals provide a good amount of food for the money.

04
JK Kabab Express Chicago image 1

Bright, hospital-like lighting contrasts with a chill, quiet atmosphere that suits late-night dining. The menu offers extensive options, including vegetarian dishes, with flavorful, well-seasoned kabobs and rich butter chicken standing out. The place draws those seeking authentic, late-night meals in a clean, calm setting.

Large portions of authentic biryani come with a buy one get one free deal on weekends. The biryani offers a flavorful and unique taste, especially the chicken version.

Biryani stands out with authentic flavors and a perfect balance of masala and spices, often served in large portions. The butter chicken is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, pairing well with garlic naan that is soft inside and crisp outside.

People are saying

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

"They gave us complimentary chicken soup and were super accommodating."

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

Good to know

1

They have a buy one get one free biryani deal on weekends.

2

Finding a suitable parking spot in Devon, especially on weekends, is challenging.

3

The restaurant is open late for late-night cravings.

05
Bawarchi image 1
Restaurant

Tiny, casual restaurant with a simple, homely vibe and cozy, warm atmosphere. Food features crispy dosas with flavorful chutneys and authentic South Indian dishes served fresh. Open late, it attracts those seeking affordable, quality breakfast and late-night meals.

Mutton biryani features authentic Hyderabad style flavors with a rich blend of spices. The dish includes a few small pieces of meat and comes with yellow dal and roti.

Idli comes with a deep sambar that tastes like Hyderabad, India. Dosa is thin, crispy, and filled with flavorful potato, served with delicious sauces. Mutton biryani, yellow dal, and roti offer incredible flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Hyderabadi flavors, it tasted just like home."

"The breakfast dosa here is crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"The Indian food here, especially the dosa, is so delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

Bawarchi is open late, perfect for late-night cravings.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for a meal, including mutton biryani.

3

Prices are generally low, providing good value for the quality of food.

06
Pak Sweets image 1
Restaurant

Old colonial-style building sets a casual, cozy scene with a family-oriented, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels like a friendly gathering, calm and inviting for groups. Known for authentic Pakistani flavors, especially fresh sweets and homemade-style dishes.

Chicken biryani stands out with its flavorful and delicious taste. It pairs well with Pakistani appetizers and other dishes like butter chicken and halwa puri.

Chicken biriyani comes in large portions with leftovers. Karachi style fresh paratha and naan stand out. The maghaz masala and aaloo samosas are especially flavorful. Desserts like Halwa Puri and Ras Malai add a sweet finish.

People are saying

"The Indian Food here is so flavorful, especially the chicken biryani."

"I found the samosas to be always fresh and spicy."

"I found the biryani here to be really delicious."

Good to know

1

They have the halwa poori deal every day from 10am to 3pm.

2

Pak Sweets offers a large selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

3

The restaurant maintains a very clean and hygienic environment.

07
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.

Lamb biryani stands out with its authentic and flavorful taste. Goat biryani and goat haleem also offer a fresh and traditional experience, closely resembling Hyderabadi styles.

Biryani stands out with authentic Hyderabadi flavors and generous meat portions. Other dishes like haleem, chicken 65, and garlic naan also deliver rich, traditional tastes.

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."

"I found the biryani here to be one of the finest in the USA."

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.

08
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 biryani stands out with rich, full flavor that impresses even picky eaters. It matches or surpasses well-known spots, offering a stellar taste that makes it a highlight here.

Biryani stands out with quality matching well-known spots. Chicken peshawari karahi, chicken pakora, and kheer also deliver strong flavors. Butter chicken comes in a small portion, alongside mutton karahi, reshmi kababs, naans, and lassies.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the chicken biryani; it was unlike any other."

"I thought the Indian food, especially the biryani, was very good."

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.

09
Hot N' Spicy Chicago image 1
Halal restaurant

Halal restaurant offers cozy and welcoming ambiance with bright lighting and a clean setting. The place attracts those seeking authentic Pakistani flavors with dishes like bun kabab and chicken biryani standing out. Tables may wobble, but the overall vibe feels like a casual, homey spot.

Fragrant basmati rice layers with succulent meat, spices, and herbs create a rich taste in the chicken biryani. The dish offers an authentic Pakistani flavor with each bite revealing new dimensions of aroma and taste.

Fragrant chicken biryani layers basmati rice with succulent meat and spices. The chicken tikka masala features tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. Crispy masala fries and soft paratha wraps add flavorful variety.

People are saying

"I found the Pakistani food here to be truly authentic."

"I thought the chicken biryani was the best I ever tasted."

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

Good to know

1

The Friday buffet offers a variety of dishes for a fixed price.

2

Expect inconsistent portion sizes; they can vary from day to day.

3

Restrooms may be out of service, affecting overall comfort.

10
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.

Chicken biryani and mutton biryani come out flavorful and well-spiced. The biryani pairs well with other dishes like Bihari kebabs and nihari, creating a rich, hearty meal.

Large Gobi Paratha comes spiced perfectly. Nihari, Chana Dal, and Bihari kabobs offer rich flavors. Moist garlic Naan complements the chicken biryani and goat kunna well.

People are saying

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

"The Indian food here is so delicious, especially the rich and flavorful Nihari."

"I loved the mutton biryani; it was fabulous and very tasty."

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.

11
Burns Road Kabab House image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Space feels warm and welcoming with a cozy, lively atmosphere. It draws people seeking authentic Karachi flavors and Zabiha Halal meats. The vibe is straightforward and utilitarian, focusing on genuine Pakistani cuisine.

Flavorful chicken biryani stands out with authentic Karachi style. The biryani is consistently delicious and pairs well with their karahi dishes.

Karahi and naan stand out with strong flavors. The chicken mayo roll and biryani reflect authentic Karachi style. Garlic nan and poori paratha appear often, but poori paratha can be very hard and naan sometimes super dry.

People are saying

"The food here tastes so authentic, like eating back home."

"The kebabs here are juicy, smoky, and perfectly spiced."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times on Friday and Saturday nights.

3

The restaurant serves Zabiha Halal meats, catering to the Muslim community.

12
Serena Restaurant image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Space often feels crowded with tables set very close, limiting movement. Lighting and decor create a fancy, clean atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe. The restaurant hosts large groups comfortably despite occasional congestion.

Mutton and chicken biryani stand out with balanced spices and authentic flavors. The biryani pairs well with other dishes like paya and nihari for a full family-style meal.

Biryani stands out with its balanced spices and unique flavor. Chicken korma offers a taste reminiscent of Karachi, while dishes like Nihari and brain masala add variety. Complimentary kheer comes beautifully presented.

People are saying

"The weekend buffet's Pakistani dishes were delicious and flavorful."

"The desi food here is so flavorful and authentic, just like home."

"The Indian food here is delicious, bursting with bold, authentic flavors."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers an extensive buffet with 22 different food varieties.

2

Catering services are available for private events.

3

Children under 10 eat free, while adults are charged $20 each.

13
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.

Mutton biryani stands out with its authentic Hyderabadi flavor, fragrant aroma, and tender, perfectly balanced taste. Dum biryani here captures a traditional home-style feel with a royal touch.

Mutton Dum Biryani stands out for its authentic and rich flavor. The menu also features tandoori chicken and Chicken 360 Paratha Roll, both packed with bold spices and satisfying textures.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Indian food here, especially the biryani, is aromatic and perfectly spiced."

"This Mutton Biryani is so aromatic and flavorful, just like Hyderabad."

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.

14
Khan B.B.Q. Restaurant image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Spacious interior with comfortable seating and a design reminiscent of Pakistan creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The place features a designated prayer corner and relies on pedestal fans for cooling. It offers authentic Pakistani barbecue with flavorful dishes and generous portions.

Biryani here stands out for being super tasty and well done. Goat biryani is a favorite, with chicken biryani also quite good and unique in flavor.

Daal fry stands out with its rich, comforting flavor. Fresh naan bread pairs well with dishes like chicken tikka, biryani, and Chana Masala that balance spice and taste nicely.

People are saying

"The barbecue here is fresh, juicy, and flavorful."

"The Indian food, especially the biryani and kebabs, was delicious."

"I've never found biryani this tasty and unique."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $26 per person, not the advertised $22.

2

Khan BBQ Restaurant is Zabiha Halal certified.

3

Hygiene standards at the restaurant are reportedly poor.

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