Here at CityBeat, we like to recommend restaurants, especially if you’re searching for places like Greater Cincinnati’s best Indian restaurants. But Yelpers also have a lot of passion when it comes to reviewing the restaurants they’ve tried, and sometimes you just want to know which place has phenomenal garlic naan or what dish you should try if you’re a first-timer when it comes to Indian food.

And Yelp can help you sort through them to find the experience you’re craving, whether it’s carryout that stays magically hot from door to door, fantastic hole-in-the-wall vibes or a spiciness level you didn’t think was possible. Keep scrolling to see the most Yelp-recommended Indian and Nepali restaurants in Greater Cincinnati.

*Note: This was the list at the time of publication. Based on ongoing input, restaurant locations in this Yelp list may change. Reviews may have been shortened or edited slightly for clarity and grammar.

Ambar India Restaurant 350 Ludlow Ave., Clifton “Ambar is hands down the best Indian restaurant in Cincinnati. I have tried many and always come back to Ambar. I’ve never had a saag mushroom at any Indian restaurant ever as delicious as Ambar’s. The garlic naan is perfect and the chicken tikka masala is top notch. Servers are friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is intimate and quiet enough for casual conversation. Definitely recommend Ambar if you’re looking for some great Indian cuisine.” -Colleen A. Photo: Hailey Bollinger
Krishna Indian Carryout 313 Calhoun St., Clifton Krishna Indian Restaurant is the University of Cincinnati’s best-kept secret. The tiny restaurant offers both carryout and dine-in, with about a handful of booths to choose from. Dishing out plates such as saag paneer, a vegetarian, spinach-filled dish with onions, spices and a hint of cream, and chicken tikka masala: tandoori chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. Be careful: The food can get spicy, ranging on a 1-7 spice scale. Photo: Paige Deglow
Bridges Nepali Cuisine (Northside) 4165 Hamilton Ave., Northside “I cannot say enough GOOD things about this restaurant! You have to get the momos and naan! My favorites, hands down. Everything we had was delicious though: the rice bowl, the woh, and the tea. The staff is friendly and helpful if you have questions too.” -Emily V. Photo: BridgesNepaliCuisine.com
Shaan Indian Cuisine 3880 Paxton Ave., Oakley “Recently moved to Cincy and Shaan is near our new place. When I tell you that first bite was like seeing God, I mean it. Absolutely delicious! We had the vegetable samosa, matar paneer, and chicken makhani with garlic naan. Do not skip the garlic naan! The service was quick and attentive. Our waiter was very kind and joked with us, making us feel wanted in the restaurant, not just like he was doing his job. We will definitely be back.” -Cat S. Photo: shaanindianohio.com
Elephant Walk Indian Bar and Grill 170 W. McMillan St., CUF “This is THE best lunch special! $10 for all of this food! If you are new to Indian food this is a great way to sample everything. It comes with: Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, Mushroom Matar, Basmati Rice, Naan, and Gulab Jamun for dessert! Everything was so delicious and fresh. They also have an Ethiopian version of this lunch special that looked equally as delicious.” -Shantell P. Photo: facebook.com/EWalkCincy
Dusmesh Indian Restaurant 944 Ludlow Ave., Clifton “I’m always loving this place every time I come. It is very inviting and all the staff is very friendly. Typically when I come here, I choose between this place and another place over in Northern Kentucky. They are pretty similar but for Cincinnati, this one takes the cake. They have a great menu selection and everything I’ve ever gotten has been excellent. It’s never too spicy but it’s just spicy enough for me. I typically get the Thal plates which come with a lot of different variety and naan. Definitely a good dinner that you might end up taking part of it home. Looking forward to going back and trying different things on the menu. Very much recommended for good Indian food in Cincinnati! They’ve been here a while so keep giving them business so they can keep giving us good food. Photo: facebook.com/IndianBuffet
Delhi Palace 7133 Montgomery Road, Silverton “Delhi Palace is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking for delicious and authentic Indian cuisine in Cincinnati. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked spices. The menu at Delhi Palace is diverse and offers a range of options to suit any taste. Whether you’re in the mood for vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings. I highly recommend the Chicken Tikka Masala and the Saag Paneer, which were both cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The service at Delhi Palace is attentive and friendly, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and eager to offer recommendations. The beverage menu is also worth mentioning, with a variety of Indian beers and other drinks to choose from. The atmosphere at Delhi Palace is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with family or friends. The restaurant is decorated with beautiful Indian artwork, adding to the overall experience. Overall, I highly recommend Delhi Palace for anyone looking for fantastic Indian food in Cincinnati. The food is outstanding, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Don’t miss out on this gem of a restaurant!” -Sami D. Photo: facebook.com/delhipalaceindia
Amma’s Kitchen 7633 Reading Road, Roselawn “The food here is so good I could cry! I appreciate them clearly labeling their dishes based off of dietary restrictions. This has been my new favorite spot to grab dinner since I discovered this hidden gem a few weeks ago.” -Vinnie B. Photo: Facebook.com/AmmasKitchen
Amol India 527 York St., #1842, Newport “First time trying Indian food. Absolutely amazing. I could not go two days without coming back. Chicken tikka masala was to die for and they give a very large portion of rice with it. Naan was also delicious. I will be coming back regularly.” -Patrick M. Photo: Google Maps
Ajeet India & Nepali Cuisine 341 Ludlow Ave., Clifton “I was recommended this place by a friend and ordered the tikka masala to go. The place is very unassuming, but just wait for the food. The tikka masala was absolutely fantastic, full of rich flavor and a little sneaky spice for those who like spicy foods. You can definitely add more spice, which I did, and it was delightful. The portion size was on par with the price, and I was able to get a second meal out of what was left! I’ve also heard the chicken Vindaloo is awesome. Don’t sleep on this place if you’re looking for high-quality Indian food, this is where to find it!” -David S. Photo: facebook.com/indianfoodnepalifood
Swagat India House 9104 Cox Road, West Chester “One of the kindest restaurants around! By that, I mean kind and generous owners who serve flavorful and generous portions. My family usually orders masala dosa, tikka masala and/or a curry, and biryani. Flavor is hard to describe through a text review, but (this might sound weird) one thing worth noting is that I did not realize how certain spicy flavors could be so distinct from other spiciness until I had the previously mentioned dishes. Plus, most dishes make for good leftovers, which is important when portions are so big.” -Jason Z. Photo: acw.asianati.com
Taj Mahal Bar & Grill 726 Madison Ave., Covington “This was a new spot for us based off a recommendation. Growing up eating Indian/Paki food I always have high expectations. To start off, the ambiance is personal, while they still have a bar area too if you wanted to get drinks. They have white cloth on their tables too, if that makes it a little fancier. The service was awesome as well. We were in there with a large party and we were not forgotten about. Now to the food…it was DELICIOUS! The spice levels are 1-6 and 5-6 are for the brave and bold…a.k.a. me. It was HOT with a level 5 saag paneer. I loved every bite, wanting more. The saag was so well flavored with the paneer and rice. (My personal favorite dish). Naan was some of the best local naan we’ve had, and we also got daal soup. It was good; nothing to write home about though. We also got the chicken makhani (very similar to butter chicken). It was creamy and dreamy! So yummy, highly recommended. 5/5 amazing meal.” -Sheryar K. Photo: facebook.com/tajmahalcovington
13. Mayas Indian Restaurant 4486 W. 8th St., Delhi “A surprisingly delicious West side addition, you definitely have to check it out! The portions are plentiful and everything here is delicious. Obviously garlic naan, chicken tikka masala, saag paneer are the most popular and they are all very good. You can choose your spice level 1 through 10. My favorites are the chicken bartha (eggplant) and the chili Gobi (cauliflower). If you call in your order, they have it ready, but keep in mind they do get really busy around dinnertime.”— Marygrace A. Photo via facebook.com/mayaindianrestaurant Photo: facebook.com/mayaindianrestaurant
Jot India 1709, C, Monmouth St., Newport “Sooo good. We’ve gotten take out a few times from Jot and our meals have always been delicious! Most recently we ordered saag paneer, saag choley, chicken makhani, garlic & gobhi naan, and as always a mango lassi. Everything was great. This was our first time trying the makhani at any Indian restaurant and we would definitely order it again!” -Marieke S. Photo: facebook.com/jotindiarestaurant
Swad Indian Restaurant 1810 Galbraith Road, North College Hill “I live just down the street from them in North College Hill and get delivery/pick-up multiple times a month. At no point have they disappointed. However, today’s order was something else entirely! I don’t know what they do to their vindaloo sauce but ooooh is it the best I’ve had the privilege to try! I know they add tomatoes, which is unconventional but boy is it effective. I’m not a huge potato fan but I will make an exception just to get the sauce. Hell, if I could I’d just order the sauce and eat it like tomato soup. Their spice levels are always accurate (I always order the highest level and have never been too overwhelmed), their facilities are clean, and the service is friendly.” -Tracey S. Photo: facebook.com/Swadfineindianfoodcincinnati
Brij Mohan Indian Sweets & Restaurant 11259 Reading Road, Sharonville “A very good vegetarian and sweets shop around Cincinnati. … Coming to the food, Papdi chat was really good. Also Dahi Wada was very nice. They have a good selection of Indian chat items and you can’t go wrong with any of them. I tried the Malai Kofta – which was nice. The koftas are cooked well and the gravy had a kick. Oh [by the way], they do not have any bread apart from Batura. The selection of sweets is good. Their kowa jamoon, which was my favorite. Overall a good place. I would go again.” -Krishna Bhavithavya K. Photo: facebook.com/Brijmohan Indian Sweets & Restaurant
Indian Spice Train 7165 Liberty Centre Drive, West Chester Township “The food is stunningly good. There’s a depth of flavor regardless of the spice level you prefer. I highly recommend the shorba, lentil soup, chicken Afghani. The chef’s sampler appetizer platter is a good value and is a complete meal for 2. The naan is yummy. The fruit naan is delicious and has a sweetness that helps cut spicier bites. Beer and wine options are good. I’ve not been impressed with the cocktails, but hey, I’m there for the food. Finally, the owner and chef usually stop by for feedback. It’s my favorite restaurant in the Cincinnati region.” -John L. Photo: facebook.com/IndianSpiceTrain
Adeep India 211 W McMillan St., CUF “Two words: Uh-Mazing. If I could give 6 *’s I absolutely would. Adeep India is a restaurant that does authentic Indian cuisine the right way. Natural-tasting sauces for dipping with appetizers like samosa, and super flavorful curry and masala make Adeep a must-visit. Easily a 9/10 spot in the Cincy area for Indian if you are in the mood. Located right in the heart of the UC Campus, it’s a short trip from northern Kentucky or one of the surrounding suburbs. I have tried the chicken curry before and it was excellent, but I am a tikka masala guy through and through and they do NOT disappoint. Rich, creamy masala along with tender pulled chicken make it an amazing experience for anyone into really quality tikka. Not alone are the dishes amazing, but the naan is to die for. With a perfect combination of doughy and crispy you have to try a side of garlic naan with your dish – you’ll be glad you did. This is now my GO-TO spot for Indian food in Cincinnati. With incredible portions (I can eat and always have leftovers) and very competitive prices, Adeep is a must-visit. Stop by and leave them an honest review yourself!” -Andrew M. Photo: Paige Deglow
New Krishna Indian Restaurant 11974 Lebanon Road, #100, Sharonville “This is some of the finest Indian food in the Queen City area. It’s authentic, fresh and reasonably priced. I have tried a variety of selections … never been disappointed. My personal favorites include the mango lassi drink, Taj Mahal beer, samosa turnovers, the poori bread, any of the 6 or so rice birianis, goat curry. If your palate enjoys some chile heat, go with the lamb vindaloo. At the mild end of the scale, New Krishna serves a delicious creamy chicken makhani. Oh, I almost forgot – the homemade tomato soup puts Campbell’s to shame. Enjoy!” -Terry D. Photo: facebook.com/newkrishnarestaurant
Ravis Hyderabad House 9536 Cincinnati Columbus Road, Suites 4 & 5, West Chester “Do not sleep on this gem of a place! I lived in Hyderabad for 6 years and Ravis’ dum biriyani with Chicken 65 is super authentic and took me back to my days in Hyderabad. Pair it with a Mango Lassi and you will absolutely love it. 10/10 recommended.” -Apurba B. Photo: facebook.comRAVIS Hyderabad House
AAP India 6430 Glenway Ave., Green Township “I come here a few times a month because the food is reliably good and the service is always very strong. It’s definitely a small business and run by the nicest people. Their garlic naan is 10/10 and the portions are very large. I also like their lunch special, which comes with an assortment of items. I have tried the chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, Aloo matar and all are popular and delicious. But don’t miss the bhaigan bhartha, gobi Manchurian and chili chicken. Overall a wonderful place!” -Martin P. Photo: facebook.com/aapindiarestaurantt
Guru India Restaurant 2303 Buttermilk Crossing, Crescent Springs “Time and time again the service and the food are consistently phenomenal. Such great folks to talk to and support. It’s so delicious. I miss the buffet, so I’ll always get at least two dishes to experience a variety of their flavors. My favorite is the Saag Paneer…. Or is it the Chicken Tikka Masala…? Better just get both.. and a few of the appetizers for good measure. Oh – can not forget the garlic naan.” -Sara H. Photo: Facebook.com/GuruIndiaRestaurantNKY
The Indian Bistro 671 Ohio Pike, H, Union Township “Our first time trying Indian cuisine and we are so glad that we decided to stop here! We had no idea where to start but the young lady serving us out was so helpful. We ended up getting the mixed appetizer platter and it was so good! I had the butter chicken, my husband had the lamb curry and my granddaughter had the chili chicken and we had the potato, the garlic and the fried Naan bread. We will be back! It was all so incredible!” -Jodi A. Photo: facebook.com/TheIndianBistro
New Shaan India 3972 Red Bank Road, Suite C, Fairfax “We enjoyed a great Indian meal at New Shaan. It has a bustling carryout business but we ate in. The food was very good. We started with Chicken Pakora, which was served piping hot from the kitchen. Delicious! For entrees, we had Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Curry, along with garlic nan and rice. It was all excellent – the meats were tender, the sauces mild (as we ordered) and so good. The 3 of us enjoyed [it], even hubby for whom this was a first-time-having-Indian food experience. Ambiance is minimal – it’s a nice clean strip mall restaurant, and the employees are very nice. Our dinner was not quick, but we took that as a sign that everything was freshly made to order (not precooked and reheated). We ordered “mild” on everything but I think I would up that a notch next time. Definitely try it out!” -Ann S. Photo: facebook.com/New Shaan Indian Cuisine
Grace of India 6900 Cheviot Road, #5100, White Oak “Grace of India is my go-to! It’s just a convenient bonus that it’s right up the street, but this is definitely a meal I would travel for. Whether I order for pick up or delivery my food is always hot and fresh. Portion sizes are large so I can easily get two meals each time I order. My go-to meals are the Chicken Makhani or the Saag Paneer, but I don’t think you could go wrong! I also love their naan, but usually get the garlic or paneer. Delicious!” -Kristen C. Photo: facebook.com/graceofindiacheviot