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Guide to Little India

Chai and Indian food spots

The craving for a steaming cup of spiced chai alongside a hearty Indian meal is impossible to ignore.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ruman Chai Shai & Restaurant(Zabiha Halal) image 1
Ruman Chai Shai & Restaurant(Zabiha Halal) image 2
Ruman Chai Shai & Restaurant(Zabiha Halal) image 3
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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.

Rich, aromatic Irani chai captures the true essence of Hyderabad and feels like ghar ki chai. It pairs perfectly with Osmania biscuits and samosas in a cozy, welcoming spot.

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 authentic Hyderabadi flavors here revived memories of the city."

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

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.

02
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.

Akbari chai stands out with its exceptional flavor and rich aroma. Multiple cups highlight its consistent excellence.

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."

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

"I found the chai to be very, very good."

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.

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.

Strong ginger chai and zafrani chai stand out with rich, authentic flavors. The sulaimani chai and Adrak chai bring a memorable taste reminiscent of Indian tea stalls.

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
Mintza South Indian & Kerala cuisine image 1

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.

Strong focus on Kerala Chai with a rich, flavorful taste. The masala chai stands out as a spicy, aromatic option that pairs well with savory dishes.

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 enjoyed the Kerala Chai."

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.

05
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.

Irani chai here offers an authentic, rich, and perfectly brewed taste that brings a nostalgic feel of Hyderabad. It pairs well with traditional dishes like haleem and kaddu ki kheer, making it a flavorful and comforting choice.

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 biryani here is so authentic and aromatic."

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

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.

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.

Chai here is authentic and fresh, brewed perfectly with a strong karak style. Portions can be small for the price, but the affordable halwa poori platter pairs well with the tea.

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."

"The chai here is perfectly brewed and so comforting."

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
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.

Complimentary chai arrives at the end, offering true comfort and a warm finish.

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."

"The chai here is acceptable, but it could be improved."

"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.

08
Sukhadia's Sweets and Snacks image 1

Cozy space with retro Indian music playing softly, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Ample seating supports a casual vibe where people enjoy authentic Indian snacks and sweets. Self-service counter adds to the relaxed, informal setup.

Strong masala chai stands out with fresh, excellent flavor. Chai pairs well with snacks like samosa and vada pav, offering a warm, satisfying experience.

Masala Dosa and Pav Bhaji stand out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Masala Chai and Samosa Chaat offer bold, authentic tastes that capture classic Indian street food well.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and really good."

"The samosa chaat and dahi puri here are fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try their Masala Chai; it's the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay $2 for bottled water, which is not complimentary.

2

The menu is only available in the original language, making it hard to read.

3

Catering services are available for events and gatherings.

09
Hyderabad House image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with a basic setup and cozy environment offers an atmosphere filled with the aroma of spices and sounds of sizzling pans. The place stays buzzing with people even late at night, creating a lively vibe that reflects authentic Hyderabad-style dining.

Piping hot, authentic Hyderabadi chai comes at a great value of $2. Irani chai stands out as a must try with a pure, rich flavor that gives a solid boost.

Mutton Biryani stands out with rich flavors and perfect spice balance. Chicken Biryani features aromatic spices and tender meat, both cooked to perfection. Goat dishes like haleem and curry offer authentic, tasty options.

People are saying

"The authentic Hyderabadi flavors here are so good, especially the haleem."

"I got some piping hot, amazing chai here."

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

Good to know

1

Hyderabad House only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for night dining.

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Little India, Chicago

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