Kashmir
Cover Photo: Kashmir

From new buzz-worthy restaurants to the Philippines’ oldest, here are nine Indian restaurants you need to try

Robust, complex, and irresistibly comforting, Indian food is a true gastronomic treasure. Bursting with regional ingredients, techniques, and flavours, the cuisine is truly one of a kind, boasting a diverse portfolio of dishes across the country. Luckily, these nine establishments in Metro Manila are well-versed with their craft, guiding you through the rich food culture one spoonful at a time:

See also: Where To Order Thai Food In Metro Manila

1. Mantra Bistro

Tatler Asia
Mantra Bistro
Above Mantra Bistro
Tatler Asia
Mantra Bistro
Above Mantra Bistro

Location: Legazpi Village, Makati City

North Indian cuisine finds a cosy home in Legazpi Village through Mantra Bistro. Known for its curries, tandooris, biryanis, as well as other signature dishes like Chicken 65 (an Indian fried chicken that begs for a cold Kingfisher beer), every visit promises new and exciting discoveries—even through the drinks menu.

Tatler Tip: check out their sister concept, Great Indian Rice Bowl, for a fuss-free takeaway meal full of flavour. Each pint conceals alternating layers of rice and curry to ensure every bite is as delicious as the last.

See also: Feed Me Fried Chicken: 15 Restaurants to Get Your Fix

2. Hossein’s

Locations: Makati City; BGC

Although better known for its Persian cuisine, Hossein’s also cooks up an array of regional Indian fare—Punjabi pakoras, biryanis, tandoori, and a rich spread of curries offer just a glimpse of the vibrant dishes at this eclectic institution. Established in 1985, the restaurant serves as a proud showcase of head chef Hossein Sohrabi’s Persian heritage, infused with modern and international twists.

See also: What Are the Differences Between Indian and Persian Cuisine?

3. Indus

Location: BGC

While smokey tandoori and bold curries are the specialities at Indus, the stylish new restaurant also provides lighter, fusion dishes like burgers and wraps. Authentic yet contemporary, the modern Indian kitchen invites diners to enjoy a gastronomic adventure through the rich and complex cuisine, from traditional chicken tikka to inventive ice creams.

See also: Dining Radar: 9 New Restaurants and Cafés to Try This January 2022

4. Kashimir

Tatler Asia
Kashmir
Above Kashmir
Tatler Asia
Kashmir
Above Kashmir

Location: BGC

Another Indian establishment causing a buzz as of late is Kashmir—the Philippines’ first Indian restaurant, which just opened its new flagship at One Bonifacio, BGC. Now under the helm of entrepreneur Leon Araneta, you can look forward to refreshing additions like modern cocktails, an extensive plant-based menu, and swanky interiors, but rest assured that the restaurant’s fan-favourite dishes and welcoming charm remain.

See also: The New Kashmir: The Country’s Oldest Indian Restaurant Has Moved to BGC

5. Little Rotti

Cloud Concept

Currently testing a commissary in Sta Mesa, Quezon City, Little Rotti has big plans for expansion in the coming years. The budding partnership between Ravi Chulani, chef Michael Profeta, and F&B visionary Jose “JoeMag” Magsaysay Jr. started off as a home-based business and pours a lot of heart into each flavoursome bite, be it palak paneer, lamb biryani, or mutton kerala.

See also: Where to Order Indian Food: Little Rotti, The Pandemic-Born Business With Big Plans

6. Royal Indian Curry House (RICH)

Location: Poblacion, Makati

A continued favourite for hearty Indian fare, Royal Indian Curry House (lovingly known as RICH) is a lively outpost serving tandoori dishes, curries, south Indian specialities, and much more—including unique Indo-Chino creations. Whether you come to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a rambunctious get-together with friends, you’ll surely enjoy a memorable (and tasty) evening.

Tatler Tip: did you know that RICH is open until 5am?

See also: Spice Cabinet Essentials According to Chefs: Robby Goco, Heny Sison, and More On Their Favourites

7. Spices

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Spices
Above Spices at The Peninsula, Manila

Location: Makati City

The Peninsula, Manila houses an abundance of delicious eats, including the popular Asian restaurant, Spices. The well-appointed establishment celebrates gastronomic treats from around the continent, including bold Indian cuisine—think murgh makhani, nali rogan josh, and delicious naan. 

See also: Pia’s Kitchen by Pia Wurtzbach Brings You Flavours of The World

8. Richksha Streetside Tandoor

Location: Kapitolyo, Pasig City

While you can certainly go for the more familiar picks like chicken tandoori, biryani cooked in a clay pot, and luscious curries, Ricksha Streetside Tandoor boasts a wealth of lesser-known gems, especially from the street food selection. Make sure you check out the Goan curry clams and Dishoom seafood moilee as well—two dishes on the menu by popular demand.

See also: Here's How Asian Street Food Chefs Are Coping In Lockdown

9. The Curry Bowl

Location: Merville, Parañaque

Sports and recreation complex Club United has tennis courts, swimming pools, a soccer field, and as those in the know will tell you, some of the best biryani you can find in Metro Manila. The Curry Bowl, which has won over a loyal following with its Tandoor dishes and must-try roti dum biryani, offers authentic Indian dishes for both meat-lovers and plant-based foodies alike.

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