Indian cuisine, a tantalizing tapestry of spices, aromas, and flavors, has established its stronghold in New York City’s vibrant culinary scene. Among the myriad options available, lunch buffets stand out for their ability to deliver a comprehensive gastronomic experience that appeals to both ardent fans of Indian gastronomy and curious newcomers alike. These buffets not only offer an array of delectable dishes but also create a communal atmosphere, where patrons can explore diverse culinary traditions. In this exploration, we delve into ten exemplary Indian lunch buffets across various neighborhoods in New York City, complete with addresses, contact information, and websites to facilitate your culinary adventures.
1. Tamarind Tribeca
Address: 99 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 775-9000
Website: tamarindtribeca.com
Tamarind Tribeca epitomizes elegance and flavor, offering a lavish lunch buffet that showcases Northern Indian dishes. The intimate yet sophisticated ambiance invites diners to relish classics like butter chicken and saag paneer amidst modern decor. Exploratory diners will appreciate the seasonal selections, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit.
2. Bukhara Grill
Address: 217 E 49th St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 753-3900
Website: bukharagrill.com
Bukhara Grill beckons patrons with the aroma of tandoori delights. Nestled in Midtown, this restaurant offers a buffet that includes grilled meats, delectable curries, and an impressive vegetarian spread. Its vibrantly colored decor radiates warmth, making this spot a favorite for both business lunches and family gatherings.
3. Chola
Address: 232 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 750-8999
Website: cholarestaurant.com
Chola, celebrated for its Southern Indian fare, transports diners to the coastal regions of India. The lunch buffet features a rich array of dosas, idlis, and exquisite seafood options, all artistically presented. The culinary masterclass offered here showcases not just food, but provides insight into the cultural significance of each dish.
4. Curry Hill
Address: 296 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Contact: (212) 685-7180
Website: curryhillnyc.com
A gem in the heart of Manhattan’s Little India, Curry Hill is renowned for its authentic Thali lunches. The buffet gives diners a chance to indulge in a variety of regional dishes, ranging from rich curries to humble dals, all served with the traditional accompaniments of rice and naan. Its bustling atmosphere reflects the vibrancy of its surroundings.
5. Dhaba
Address: 108 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Contact: (212) 679-1900
Website: dhabanyc.com
Dhaba offers a culinary journey through the streets of India, with a buffet that delights in both quantity and quality. Echoing the essence of roadside eateries, this location provides a medley of North and South Indian dishes, with a unique spin on traditional favorites. The decor mirrors a lively Indian bazaar, making it a feast for both the eyes and palate.
6. Indian Accent
Address: 123 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 774-2000
Website: indianaccent.com
Fusing traditional Indian dishes with contemporary techniques, Indian Accent’s lunch buffet redefines culinary expectations. Each dish is carefully crafted, reflecting a marriage of Indian heritage with global influences. The inviting ambiance, coupled with seasonally inspired menus, ensures an unforgettable dining experience.
7. Agra Palace
Address: 66-16 Dolly Ave, Queens, NY 11375
Contact: (718) 793-7300
Website: agrapalaceny.com
In the charming enclave of Queens, Agra Palace presents an extravagant lunch buffet filled with a tantalizing selection of Indian delicacies. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, particularly for their vegetarian offerings, making it a haven for herbivores and carnivores alike.
8. Saravana Bhavan
Address: 81 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Contact: (212) 684-2500
Website: saravanabhavan.com
As a global franchise, Saravana Bhavan shines brightly in the realm of vegetarian cuisine. The lunch buffet features a plethora of mouth-watering South Indian staples, with their idlis and vadas being particularly noteworthy. Casual yet vibrant, this eatery invites guests to indulge in the cultural experience of sharing food, a pillar of Indian tradition.
9. Bombay Palace
Address: 30 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 582-6500
Website: bombaypalaceny.com
Bombay Palace stands out not just for its traditional dishes but also for its stylish atmosphere. The lunch buffet showcases a multitude of flavorful options, including Mumbai street food specials, which cater to those yearning for a taste of home. The restaurant’s opulent decor also enhances the dining experience.
10. Spice Symphony
Address: 149 E 57th St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 486-1200
Website: spicesymphony.com
Last but not least, Spice Symphony elegantly intertwines North and South Indian flavors to create an extraordinary lunchtime buffet experience. With an extensive menu that includes innovative fusion dishes, this inviting restaurant promises satisfaction for every palate. The friendly staff adds to the charm, ensuring a delightful culinary journey around every corner.
In conclusion, the Indian lunch buffet offerings in New York City reflect not only the culinary diversity of India but also the vibrant tapestry of multiculturalism that defines the city itself. Each of these ten establishments exhibits a unique charm, drawing patrons into a rich exploration of flavors and traditions. Whether you are indulging in the lusciousness of a naan dunked into aromatic curry or sampling the nuanced varieties of biryani, one thing is clear: these lunch buffets provide an unmissable opportunity to savor the essence of Indian cuisine and culture in the bustling heart of New York.
