Craving the exotic spices and vibrant flavors of India? Stamford, Connecticut, a dynamic city with a burgeoning culinary scene, boasts a rich selection of Indian restaurants ready to transport your taste buds across continents. Forget bland takeout; Stamford’s Indian food landscape is a tapestry woven with authentic dishes, innovative interpretations, and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you’re a seasoned curry connoisseur or a curious newcomer eager to explore, this guide will lead you through some of the best Indian restaurants in Stamford, highlighting their signature dishes, unique ambiance, and overall dining experience. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey!
Taste of India: A Stamford Culinary Staple
Nestled on High Ridge Road, Taste of India is a long-standing favorite among Stamford residents seeking authentic North Indian cuisine. This restaurant radiates warmth and hospitality from the moment you step inside. The décor is traditional without being overly ornate, creating a comfortable and inviting setting for both casual dinners and special occasions.
What sets Taste of India apart is its commitment to classic recipes passed down through generations. Their menu is a treasure trove of familiar favorites, expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and a generous hand with spices. The butter chicken, a creamy tomato-based curry with tender pieces of tandoori chicken, is a must-try. The sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for soaking up with a piece of their freshly baked naan bread. Another standout is the lamb vindaloo, a fiery Goan curry known for its bold flavors and tender, slow-cooked lamb. Be warned: this dish packs a punch, so be sure to specify your preferred spice level when ordering!
For vegetarians, Taste of India offers a wide array of delectable options. The palak paneer, a spinach and cheese curry, is a classic choice, while the vegetable biryani, a fragrant rice dish layered with mixed vegetables and aromatic spices, is a satisfying and flavorful meal. Their selection of tandoori breads, from plain naan to garlic naan and Peshwari naan (stuffed with nuts and dried fruits), is the perfect accompaniment to any dish.
Taste of India offers a friendly and efficient service, reasonable prices, and a consistently high-quality dining experience. It’s no wonder that this restaurant has earned a loyal following in Stamford. One happy customer on Yelp raves, “The best Indian food in Stamford! The service is always excellent, and the food is consistently delicious.” If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Indian flavors in a relaxed setting, Taste of India is an excellent choice. They also offer convenient takeout and delivery options for those evenings when you prefer to enjoy your Indian feast at home.
Coromandel Cuisine of India: A Fine Dining Experience
For those seeking a more upscale and refined Indian dining experience, Coromandel Cuisine of India on Summer Street is a top contender. This elegant restaurant boasts a sophisticated atmosphere, with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and tasteful décor. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, a business lunch, or a special celebration.
Coromandel distinguishes itself with its focus on high-quality ingredients, artful presentation, and attentive service. Their menu features a mix of classic Indian dishes and creative specialties, showcasing the culinary talents of their experienced chefs. The tandoori dishes are particularly noteworthy, cooked in a traditional clay oven that imparts a smoky flavor and tender texture. The tandoori salmon, marinated in yogurt and spices, is a popular choice, as is the seekh kebab, minced lamb skewers seasoned with herbs and spices.
The curries at Coromandel are equally impressive. The chicken tikka masala, a beloved Indian staple, is expertly prepared with a creamy tomato-based sauce and succulent pieces of chicken. The rogan josh, a Kashmiri lamb curry with a rich and aromatic gravy, is another standout. Vegetarians will find plenty to choose from, including the malai kofta, vegetable dumplings in a creamy cashew sauce, and the chana masala, a flavorful chickpea curry.
Coromandel also boasts an extensive wine list, featuring a selection of international and domestic wines that pair well with Indian cuisine. The knowledgeable staff can assist you in choosing the perfect wine to complement your meal. Customers frequently comment on the exceptional service and the elegant atmosphere. One Google reviewer writes, “Coromandel is a gem! The food is exquisite, the service is impeccable, and the ambiance is perfect for a special occasion.” While the prices at Coromandel are slightly higher than at some other Indian restaurants in Stamford, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience make it well worth the splurge.
Navaratna: A Hidden Gem of Vegetarian Delights
Tucked away on Summer Street, Navaratna is a vegetarian Indian restaurant that has quietly built a loyal following among Stamford’s vegetarian and vegan community. This unassuming restaurant may not be as flashy as some of its competitors, but it makes up for it with its authentic flavors, generous portions, and affordable prices.
Navaratna specializes in South Indian cuisine, with a particular focus on dosas, uttapams, and idlis. Dosas are thin, crispy crepes made from fermented rice and lentil batter, typically served with sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew) and coconut chutney. Uttapams are thick, savory pancakes also made from fermented batter, topped with vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and peppers. Idlis are steamed rice cakes, light and fluffy, and served with sambar and chutney.
In addition to its South Indian specialties, Navaratna also offers a selection of North Indian vegetarian dishes. The saag paneer, a spinach and cheese curry, is a popular choice, as is the dal makhani, a creamy lentil stew simmered overnight. The vegetable pakoras, crispy fritters made from assorted vegetables, are a perfect appetizer.
Navaratna is a haven for vegans, with many dishes that can be easily adapted to be vegan-friendly. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegan desserts, such as the gulab jamun, deep-fried milk balls soaked in rose-flavored syrup. Navaratna is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the service is friendly and efficient. One satisfied customer on TripAdvisor writes, “Navaratna is my go-to spot for vegetarian Indian food in Stamford. The dosas are amazing, and the prices are unbeatable.” If you’re looking for authentic South Indian flavors and a wide variety of vegetarian options, Navaratna is a must-try.
Curry on Wheels: A Fusion Adventure
Breaking away from tradition, Curry on Wheels brings a modern, fusion twist to the Indian food scene in Stamford. Located on Bedford Street, this vibrant and contemporary restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending Indian spices and techniques with global flavors.
Curry on Wheels is known for its innovative dishes and playful presentations. The menu features a selection of curries, wraps, and bowls, all customizable with your choice of protein, vegetables, and sauces. The butter chicken burrito, a fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors, is a popular choice. The tandoori chicken tacos, served with a cilantro-lime chutney, are another standout.
For those seeking a more traditional Indian experience, Curry on Wheels also offers a selection of classic curries, such as the chicken tikka masala, the lamb vindaloo, and the vegetable korma. The curries are all made with fresh ingredients and a generous hand with spices.
Curry on Wheels is a popular spot for lunch and dinner, offering both dine-in and takeout options. The restaurant also has a full bar, serving a selection of Indian beers and cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, with music playing and a crowd of young professionals. One enthusiastic customer on Instagram writes, “Curry on Wheels is my new favorite spot in Stamford! The food is amazing, the atmosphere is fun, and the prices are reasonable.” If you’re looking for a modern and innovative take on Indian cuisine, Curry on Wheels is definitely worth a visit. They also offer catering services for events and parties.
Little Hut Curry: A Neighborhood Treasure
This small, family-owned restaurant on Hope Street offers authentic Indian cuisine at very reasonable prices. Little Hut Curry is a hidden gem, favored by locals for its consistently delicious food and warm, friendly service. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Their menu offers a wide array of North Indian and some South Indian specialties. The saag paneer is a rich, creamy spinach dish and the chicken vindaloo is a spicy classic. The biryani, a mixed rice dish is flavorful and filling. For those with dietary restrictions, Little Hut Curry has many vegetarian and gluten-free options available. The staff is always willing to accommodate special requests.
What makes Little Hut Curry stand out is the quality of the food for the price. Diners can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The restaurant also provides takeout and delivery services, so customers can enjoy their favorite Indian dishes from the comfort of their homes. A frequent diner on Google says, “Little Hut Curry is the best kept secret in Stamford. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is fantastic. The prices are unbeatable.”
Exploring Beyond Restaurants
While Stamford boasts excellent Indian restaurants, sometimes you might want to try your hand at creating your own Indian feast. Several Indian grocery stores in the surrounding area offer a vast selection of spices, lentils, rice, and other essential ingredients. These stores are a treasure trove for anyone looking to recreate authentic Indian flavors at home. You can find everything you need, from hard-to-find spices like asafoetida and cardamom to a variety of lentils and rice, including basmati and brown rice. Exploring these stores can be an adventure in itself, offering a glimpse into the rich and diverse culinary traditions of India.
A Final Word
Stamford, Connecticut, presents a vibrant and diverse Indian food scene, catering to all tastes and preferences. From the traditional flavors of Taste of India and Little Hut Curry to the upscale elegance of Coromandel Cuisine of India, the innovative fusion of Curry on Wheels and the vegetarian delights of Navaratna, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Stamford’s Indian restaurants offer a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, next time you’re craving the aromatic spices and flavorful dishes of India, explore the Indian food scene in Stamford and embark on a culinary adventure! The tastes of India are closer than you think.
