3 Best Indian Restaurants in Washington, DC

“Rasika Penn Quarter is a modern Indian restaurant that takes its inspiration from an age-old approach to dining. Founded by Ashok Bajaj, the restaurant features Vikram Sunderam as the Group Executive Chef. Chef Sunderam has been a multiple-time nominee for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic by the James Beard Foundation and a “Chef of the Year” candidate for the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington. Rasika Penn Quarter is a polished restaurant and lounge serving contemporary Indian cuisine, along with a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails. Their mission is to enhance your dining experience, and their sommelier is happy to recommend wines that pair perfectly with your food selections. The restaurant embraces a communal dining philosophy, encouraging guests to choose a variety of appetizers and entrées to share with their companions. Gift cards are also available. Rasika also has another location, Rasika West End.”

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“Indigo serves is a family-friendly restaurant that serves bold flavors and Indian favorites in a kitschy, cozy space with a large patio. The restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes prepared using traditional recipes passed down through generations. Indigo emphasizes quality ingredients and authentic flavors, aiming to provide the taste of home-cooked Indian meals. Their menu features a variety of Indian dishes, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Indigo provides a casual dining experience with both indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor patio is equipped with fire features and group games, creating a relaxed environment for guests. The restaurant offers free Wi-Fi, making it a great spot for gatherings and casual meals. Enjoy their featured meals accompanied by a hearty 12 oz serving, steamed rice, and a side of chickpeas garnished with fresh spinach and cilantro.”

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“The Bombay Club is a posh, old-world dining room that delivers sophisticated Indian cuisine alongside live piano music. Nilesh Singhvi, an accomplished chef with 30 years of experience, brings a deep passion for preparing the cuisine of his native India. The restaurant features a refined menu that spans the diverse regions of the country, offering dishes such as tandoori salmon, green chili chicken, and lamb rogan josh. The Bombay Club’s classic cuisine reflects a complete Indian culinary experience, showcasing the regional flavors, styles, and nuances of the country using only the finest ingredients. The interior evokes the charm of colonial-era clubs, with pale pastels, ceiling fans, and lush greenery creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The Bombay Club offers a private dining room for 10–20 guests, a semi-private area for 20–40 guests, and the main dining room for private events of up to 120 guests. Guests can enjoy a relaxing dining experience enhanced by the soothing sounds of live piano music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.”

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