Finding Indian fare in Denver can be a difficult experience. Even with a wide array of Mexican, Chinese, and Vietnamese offerings it seems there are far fewer Indian restaurants that one would imagine. Here’s a cheat sheet from a fellow curry connoisseur to help weed out the best from the worst.
Bombay Clay Oven
165 Steele St, Denver, CO – (303) 377-4454
Bombay Clay Oven is a fun place for an adventurous dining experience. The night we went there were performers dancing and singing the night away. We decided to try the sampler platter for two which is a great opportunity for anyone new to Indian cuisine to figure out what best suits their pallet.
Little India
330 E 6th Ave, Denver, CO – (303) 871-9777
1533 Champa St, Denver, CO – (303) 629-5777
Continually recognized as one of the best Indian Restaurant in Denver, Little India has two locations to choose from with distinctly different atmospheres but consistently delicious food. A creamy vindaloo with perfectly cooked chicken or a delightful Samosa crunchy and spicy will be sure to delight your taste buds. Check out the downtown location for a modern ambiance and suave cocktails over a dinner date or visit the 6th Ave location for a local neighborhood experience. Little India also offers delivery service.
Jewel of India
10343 Federal Blvd # P, Denver, CO – (303) 469-7779
Jewel of India is located in the Northern more suburban area of Denver. It’s worth a trip for the variety and solid prices. The service was great and the food was delicious. We had a silky lamb korma with fresh piping hot delicious naan. They also have a solid wine menu with very good prices.
India Oven
2890 S Colorado Blvd # J, Denver, CO – (303) 756-5866
A basic spot to get some quick grub off Colorado, but there are nicer place to visit in Denver. Not the cleanest or the best food in town. The prices are decent and the location is convenient if you’re running errands on Colorado Blvd, but if you’re a seasoned Indian lover you’ll probably want to try a place with more complexity and higher quality.
India House
1514 Blake St, Denver, CO – (303) 595-0680
Conveniently located just off the 16th street mall, India House is a concept restaurant meant to introduce diners to the flavors of India. It’s received mixed reviews from purest diners looking for a typical Indian experience. The prices are higher than you’re average curry dish, but the decor, presentation and variety of meats are different than average. Try duck, venison, and quail for a twist on the standard lamb vindaloos you’re used to. The $9.95 weekday lunch buffet might be the best time for skeptics to weigh in on this restaurant.
Take a Trip to Boulder…
I know that Boulder is a 26 mile trek from Denver, but these restaurants are worth the drive. In fact there are at least twice this number of Indian Restaurants in Boulder which keeps the food remarkable and interesting, because diners don’t have to settle for what’s available.
Royal Peacock
5290 Arapahoe Ave # B, Boulder, CO – (303) 447-1409
By far my favorite Indian Restaurant in Colorado so far. The spices are just right, complex with a good heat and the staff is knowledgeable, efficient, quick and friendly. Every dish I’ve tried here has been a pleasure. The location in a strip mall on the east side of Boulder is unassuming and truthfully not all that interesting, but the well crafted dishes will make you forget where you are.
Sherpas
825 Walnut St, Boulder, CO – (303) 440-7151
Located on the posh west side of Boulder just blocks from famous Pearl Street Mall is Sherpas. It’s tucked among residences and fittingly located in a lovely old Victorian home. The patios and gardens surrounding the building are great for outdoor dining with a view of the foothills and flatiron rock formation. The food is a combination of Nepalese and Himalayan fare including unique meats such as yak and in my experience is quite delicious. The jury is mixed among Indian food lovers in Boulder, but it’s worth a trip to this homey dining room to try the Yak stew.
Dushanbe Tea House
1770 13th St, Boulder, CO – (303) 442-4993
If you’re looking for a unique experience you must stop by the Dushanbe Tea House which serves Persian/Indian inspired dishes. Not only is the food delectable, particularly brunch, but the story of the building is fantastic too. Stop by for a stellar selection of teas and to learn more about the history of this unique and beautiful building given to Boulder by their sister city of Tajikistan.
Nepal Cuisine
4720 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder, CO 80305 – (303) 554-5828
This delicious destination was formerly located in the Meadows Parkway shopping mall under the moniker “Naryan’s Nepal Restaurant”. Now known as Nepal Cuisine and located not far from it’s original location you can still get the same amazing fare and stellar service. Try the Momo available in Pork or Vegetarian for a new take on the standard Chinese dumpling. Enjoy a decadent Mango Lassi or stop by during the brunch and sample a host of fresh flavors. The owners are a neighborhood favorite who have received a lot of well deserved recognition.
