The Absolute Best Indian Restaurant in Columbia [Updated 2025]

With a passion for food that borders on obsession, I dove headfirst into the vibrant world of Indian cuisine right here in Columbia. After exploring 12 top-notch restaurants, I’ve unearthed some incredible flavors, spices, and experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

You can trust my insights because I’ve savored every bite, dissected every dish, and listened to the stories behind each culinary creation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Indian fare or a curious newcomer, I promise you’ll find something to love on this delicious journey. Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering adventure that just might change your dining game forever!

Dwaraka's Bawarchi Indian Kitchen

Highlights
Attentive and courteous staff
Flavor-packed delicious dishes
Great vegetarian options
Casual and pleasant ambience
Quick service with hot food

Dwaraka's Bawarchi Indian Kitchen is a delightful culinary gem that tantalizes the taste buds with every bite. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the courteous and attentive staff who immediately made me feel at home in their vibrant, casual ambience. It’s the perfect spot for a friendly gathering or a cozy dinner after a long day.

As soon as I opened the menu, I was met with an array of dishes that made my mouth water. I decided to dive into their flavor-packed delights, and let me tell you, each plate was a symphony of spices that danced on my palate. The vegetarian options are particularly outstanding, showcasing a range of textures and flavors that would impress even a staunch meat-lover.

What truly stood out was the efficiency of the service. My food arrived hot and fresh, a testament to their commitment to quality and speed. For anyone seeking a memorable meal in Columbia, I wholeheartedly recommend Dwaraka's Bawarchi. Prepare to indulge in a feast that’s as delightful as it is delicious!

You might also want to check out the best indian restaurant in Baltimore.

House Of India

Highlights
Authentic Indian & Nepali Cuisine
Incredible Flavors & Spices
Welcoming Atmosphere
Attentive & Friendly Service
Limited Time 15% Discount

Review of House Of India

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Columbia, House Of India offers a delightful culinary escape for anyone craving authentic Indian and Nepali cuisine. From the moment I stepped inside, the welcoming atmosphere enveloped me like a cozy blanket, promising a journey through rich flavors and spices.

I was captivated by the menu, which boasted a stunning array of dishes that showcase the incredible flavors synonymous with the Indian subcontinent. Every bite was a celebration, bursting with spices that danced playfully on my palate. The butter chicken was a standout—creamy, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. The attentive and friendly service made the experience even more enjoyable; the staff was eager to recommend dishes, catering to my adventurous spirit.

To sweeten the deal, I was thrilled to discover a limited time 15% discount on my meal, making this culinary adventure even more delightful. Overall, House of India isn’t just a restaurant—it's an experience. If you're in Columbia and itching for a taste of India, do yourself a favor and take a seat here. You won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Towson.

Ananda

Highlights
Excellent food presentation
Impeccable, attentive service
Unique menu options
Warm, inviting ambiance
Memorable dining experience

Ananda in Columbia is a delightful gem that surpassed my expectations with its inviting ambiance and impeccable service. As I stepped inside, the warm, vibrant decor immediately set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The staff was not only attentive but also genuinely enthusiastic about the menu, which offers a splendid range of unique options that keep your taste buds dancing.

One of the standout features of Ananda is their excellent food presentation. Each dish arrives like a work of art, enticing your eyes before tantalizing your palate. I indulged in their signature curries and was thrilled by the burst of flavors, perfectly balanced yet loaded with the spice that Indian cuisine is celebrated for.

But what truly made my evening memorable wasn’t just the food; it was the overall atmosphere. Ananda wraps you in a lovely embrace of warmth, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner or a special celebration. If you're hunting for the ultimate Indian dining experience in Columbia, look no further than Ananda. It’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Baltimore.

Rangoli Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic vegetarian options
Cozy and pleasant ambiance
Attentive and welcoming staff
Generous portion sizes
Renovated with beautiful decor

Rangoli Restaurant in Columbia truly delivers an exquisite culinary experience that dances harmoniously with the spices typical of Indian cuisine. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a cozy and pleasant ambiance, accentuated by beautiful decor that revitalizes the senses. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a friendly gathering, this place sets the right mood.

One of the first things I noticed was their fantastic vegetarian options, which tantalized my taste buds and provided a hearty meal that left me satisfied without a heaviness in my stomach. The generous portion sizes certainly don't hurt either!

What truly made my visit memorable was the attentive and welcoming staff. They were eager to share recommendations, ensuring I got the most authentic taste of Indian flavors. Every dish felt like a warm hug, crafted to perfection.

If you're in search of the best Indian restaurant in Columbia, I honestly believe Rangoli has the perfect blend of ambiance, flavor, and hospitality. I can't wait for my next visit—who knew indulging in Indian cuisine could feel so delightful?

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Columbia.

Chopathi India Kitchen

Highlights
Spongy Idly & Crispy Vada
Fast Service & Spacious Ambience
Flavorful Chicken Biryani
Customizable Spice Levels
Good Portion Sizes

Chopathi India Kitchen has truly stolen my heart and my taste buds! The moment I stepped into this gem, I was greeted by a spacious ambiance that promised a delightful culinary journey. I dived straight into the spongy idly and crispy vada, a perfect way to kick off my feast. The textures were simply divine, and the accompanying chutney was like a burst of flavor with every dip.

But the pièce de résistance? The flavorful chicken biryani! Each grain of rice was perfectly cooked and infused with aromatic spices that danced on my palate. What I particularly appreciated was the restaurant's commitment to customizable spice levels—whether you're a spice aficionado or someone who prefers milder flavors, they've got you covered!

To top it all off, the service was impressively fast, ensuring I never had a dull moment. The good portion sizes left me feeling satisfied, yet they beckoned me to return for another round. So if you find yourself in Columbia, don’t miss out on the delightful experience at Chopathi India Kitchen—your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best italian restaurants in Baltimore County.

Amber Spice

Highlights
Decent Indian Cuisine
Generous Portions
Well-Seasoned Food
Spicy Dishes Available
Inconsistent Service

Amber Spice: A Flavorful Adventure in Columbia's Indian Cuisine

The moment I stepped into Amber Spice, I felt a rush of excitement, ready to indulge in some authentic Indian fare! The ambiance was inviting, with soft aromas wafting through the air, hinting at the culinary delights to come. I dove headfirst into their menu and was delighted by the decent Indian cuisine on offer, showcasing a wide variety of dishes.

One standout feature was their generous portions—each plate was a feast for both the eyes and the palate. I found the food to be beautifully well-seasoned, striking a wonderful balance that kept my taste buds dancing. For spice enthusiasts, they have brave options that are sure to ignite your passion for heat!

However, the experience wasn’t without its hiccups. Unfortunately, I encountered inconsistent service, which momentarily put a damper on my culinary journey. Despite that, my affection for the flavorful offerings at Amber Spice remains unwavering. If you’re looking for a vibrant, mouth-watering experience, this gem in Columbia is worth a visit. Just come prepared to savor a delightful meal—service quirks and all!

You might also want to check out the best mexican restaurants in Columbia.

Royal Taj Restaurant

From the moment I stepped into Royal Taj, I felt enveloped in an aura of warmth and spice. The vibrant decor sets the perfect stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. Their butter chicken was creamy, rich, and mildly spiced to perfection, while the paneer tikka was an explosion of flavor with a delightful char. Don’t skip their freshly baked naan, which made every bite a joyful adventure. The attentive service was the cherry on top of this delightful escapade. Royal Taj beautifully marries tradition with a dash of modern flair, making it a standout choice for any Indian food lover in Columbia!

You might also want to check out the best korean restaurant in Baltimore.

Clove & Cardamom Restaurant

During my delightful visit to Clove & Cardamom Restaurant, I was enchanted by the aromatic spices dancing in the air. The butter chicken was a velvety masterpiece, perfectly paired with their fluffy naan. Each bite transported me to the vibrant streets of India! The ambiance struck a balance between cozy and elegant, making it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions. The attentive staff made the experience even sweeter. Clove & Cardamom redefines Indian cuisine in Columbia, and I left with my heart—and my palate—full. A definite must-visit for any Indian food lover!

You might also want to check out the best german restaurant in Baltimore.

Masala Kitchen

Visiting Masala Kitchen was a delightful journey for my taste buds. With its inviting ambiance and friendly staff, I felt right at home. I started with the Samosas, perfectly crisp and bursting with spicy potato filling. For the main course, the Biryani was a star—aromatic and impeccably spiced. The chef's secret? A blend of traditional recipes and fresh ingredients! Finally, I couldn't resist the luscious Gulab Jamun to cap off the meal. If you’re searching for authenticity in Columbia, Masala Kitchen is a culinary gem that will leave you craving more!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Baltimore County.

The Mint Room

During my recent culinary adventure at The Mint Room, I was greeted with a symphony of flavors that danced upon my palate. The ambiance exudes warmth, inviting you to unwind and indulge. The paneer tikka was a revelation—perfectly marinated and grilled to smoky perfection. I couldn't resist the butter chicken, which was rich and comforting like a cozy hug. The attentive staff added a sprinkle of joy to the meal, ensuring every need was met. If you’re in Columbia and craving authentic Indian cuisine, The Mint Room is an absolute must-visit. Your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best new restaurants in Baltimore.

Tandoor Spice

During my delightful visit to Tandoor Spice, I was immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements their flavorful cuisine. The butter chicken was a standout—rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying, while the garlic naan was a delightful accompaniment, perfectly fluffy with just the right amount of crunch. I also indulged in their paneer tikka masala, which was a charming dance of spices that left my taste buds singing. The friendly service added to the experience, making me feel like part of the family. Tandoor Spice is truly a gem in Columbia’s culinary landscape!

You might also want to check out the best hamburgers in Baltimore.

Chutney Indian Restaurant

During my recent visit to Chutney Indian Restaurant, I was delighted by the vibrant flavors and warm ambiance. The butter chicken was a creamy masterpiece, perfectly complemented by fluffy naan that seemed to melt in my mouth. I also couldn't resist the paneer tikka, which offered a delightful smokiness that danced on my palate. The attentive service added to the charm, making me feel like a cherished guest. Overall, Chutney captures the essence of Indian cuisine with flair and authenticity, solidifying its place among the top contenders for the best Indian restaurant in Columbia.

You might also want to check out the best crab in Baltimore.