Best Indian Restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco is a food lover’s dream, and its Indian dining scene is no exception. The city offers a rich tapestry of flavors from every corner of India — from street food stalls that feel like a slice of Mumbai to fine-dining experiences that reinvent traditional recipes. Whether you crave buttery naan, smoky tandoori kebabs, fiery curries, or delicate dosas, San Francisco delivers.

In this guide, we’ll explore list of top 10 Indian restaurants in San Francisco, sharing where to find them and what signature dishes you can’t miss. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor with a craving for Indian flavors, this list will help you eat your way through the city’s most flavorful spots.

1. Amber India

Location: 25 Yerba Buena Ln, San Francisco, CA 94103
Amber India has been a benchmark for Indian fine dining in San Francisco for years. With elegant interiors and refined service, it combines traditional recipes with modern presentation.

Famous Dishes:

• Butter Chicken – silky, tomato-based curry with tender chicken

• Tandoori Salmon – marinated in spices and cooked in a clay oven

• Kashmiri Lamb Rogan Josh – slow-cooked lamb in aromatic gravy

The restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion, but equally satisfying for anyone who loves well-executed classics.

2. Dosa Allee

Location: 995 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
A celebration of South Indian cuisine, Dosa Allee serves everything from crisp dosas to flavorful curries. The smell of sambar and coconut chutney fills the air as soon as you walk in.

Famous Dishes:

• Masala Dosa – paper-thin rice crepe filled with spiced potatoes

• Onion Rava Dosa – made with semolina for an extra crunch

• Chettinad Chicken Curry – fiery and fragrant, a South Indian classic

This is the go-to spot for vegetarians and vegans who love plant-based meals without compromising flavor.

3. Ritu Indian Soul Food

Location: 3111 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Ritu offers a modern twist on homestyle Indian cooking. Its name means “season” in Hindi, and the menu reflects fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with creativity.

Famous Dishes:

• Gunpowder Cauliflower – tossed in South Indian podi spice

• Butter Garlic Shrimp – rich and fragrant

• Chicken Tikka Taco – a fusion of Indian and Mexican street food

The atmosphere is casual yet stylish, making it a great place for weekday dinners with friends.

4. August 1 Five

Location: 524 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102
Named after India’s independence day, August 1 Five is known for contemporary Indian dishes with artistic flair. The plating is as beautiful as the flavors are bold.

Famous Dishes:

• Lamb Chops – marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection

• Truffle Naan – a luxurious twist on the classic bread

• Goan Prawn Curry – coconut-based curry with tender prawns

This is the spot to impress guests or celebrate milestones with unique Indian flavors.

5. Curry Up Now

Location: 659 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
What began as a food truck has now grown into a popular restaurant chain. Curry Up Now blends Indian street food vibes with American favorites in a casual setting.

Famous Dishes:

• Tikka Masala Burrito – the cult favorite

• Sexy Fries – topped with butter chicken and cheese

• Deconstructed Samosa – smashed samosa topped with chickpeas, chutneys, and yogurt

It’s a fun place for quick meals that still pack authentic spice.

6. Little Delhi

Location: 83 Eddy St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Little Delhi captures the essence of Northern Indian cooking with hearty curries and fresh breads. The flavors here are bold yet comforting, reminiscent of home-cooked meals.

Famous Dishes:

• Saag Paneer – spinach and cottage cheese in a creamy sauce

• Goat Curry – slow-cooked with earthy spices

• Garlic Naan – soft and fluffy with a roasted garlic kick

This is the kind of place you’ll return to for consistent, soul-satisfying Indian food.

7. Tilak

Location: 3501 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Tilak is a hidden gem offering homestyle cooking with generous portions. The menu features dishes from across India, all prepared with care and attention to detail.

Famous Dishes:

• Lamb Vindaloo – spicy and tangy, a Goan classic

• Vegetable Korma – mild yet flavorful, with cashew cream

• Fish Curry – coastal-style curry with coconut and tamarind

It’s ideal for those who love hearty, unpretentious Indian meals.

8. Keeva Indian Kitchen

Location: 908 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118
Keeva is known for its balance of traditional and modern Indian dishes, all served in a cozy neighborhood setting. The menu offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and meat options.

Famous Dishes:

• Chicken Korma – creamy and nutty with a mild spice

• Lamb Seekh Kebab – juicy skewers of ground lamb

• Paneer Tikka – smoky grilled paneer with peppers and onions

Keeva is perfect for both a family dinner and a quiet date night.

9. Udupi Palace

Location: 1007 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
This South Indian vegetarian restaurant is beloved for its huge dosas and authentic flavors. The service is friendly, and the prices are budget-friendly.

Famous Dishes:

• Mysore Masala Dosa – spicy potato filling with chutneys

• Idli Sambar – soft rice cakes with lentil soup

• Thali – a complete South Indian meal with multiple small dishes

A must-visit for dosa lovers and those who enjoy lighter, plant-based meals.

10. ROOH

Location: 333 Brannan St, San Francisco, CA 94107
ROOH blends modern Indian dining with global influences. The décor is chic, and the menu features inventive combinations without losing authenticity.

Famous Dishes:

• Butter Chicken – elevated with smoked tomato sauce

• Avocado Golgappa – crispy puris with avocado mousse and spiced water

• Pork Belly Vindaloo – a bold twist on the Goan favorite

If you’re looking for Indian cuisine in an upscale, Instagram-worthy environment, ROOH is your answer.

Why San Francisco is a Heaven for Indian Food Lovers

San Francisco’s diversity and openness to culinary innovation have helped Indian cuisine thrive in every form — from humble tiffin services to Michelin-worthy restaurants. Devon Avenue may be Chicago’s hub, but in San Francisco, Indian food is scattered across neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

From the fiery curries of the south to the rich, creamy gravies of the north, the city lets you travel across India without leaving the Bay Area. The fusion trend is also strong here, with creative spins like truffle naan, samosa chaat with avocado, and butter chicken poutine.

Tips for Dining at Indian Restaurants in San Francisco

• Ask for spice levels – Indian dishes can be adjusted from mild to very hot.

• Try regional specialties – Explore beyond butter chicken and tikka masala.

• Pair with breads – Naan, roti, and paratha add texture to your meal.

• Save room for dessert – Gulab jamun, kheer, and kulfi are worth it.

Final Thoughts

San Francisco’s Indian dining scene is a reflection of the city’s cultural richness. Whether you’re after a casual dosa lunch, a street food snack, or a luxurious multi-course dinner, the city has an Indian restaurant for every mood and budget.

The top 10 restaurants listed above not only serve delicious food but also tell a story — of heritage, adaptation, and creativity. So next time you’re in the city, skip the guesswork, pick one from this list, and let your taste buds take a flavorful journey across India.

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