WBOB Original Reads

Taste Test: The Five Best Indian Restaurants in Rhode Island

9/3/2019

Anthony Faccenda

Despite its small size, Rhode Island has nearly twenty Indian restaurant to choose from. From Woonsocket to Westerly, each eatery offers their unique take on popular Indian dishes like naan, biryani, and masala.

Fortunately for you, we’ve whittled down the field to the top five restaurants, so you can rest assured that your dining experience will be one to remember.

Whether you’re a newcomer to Indian cuisine or an aficionado, it never hurts to get a good recommendation.

Here are the top 5 Indian restaurants in Rhode Island:

India Restaurant
1060 Hope St, Providence

In terms of decor and atmosphere, India Restaurant stands alone. A perfect date night spot, India has offered an eclectic blend of contemporary and authentic Indian food for over two decades. If you’re a newcomer to India, dine in on a Tuesday and get 30% of all entrees from 4 p.m. until close or sample multiple items at their weekend brunch buffet. Also, be sure to check out their attractive outdoor dining patio before summer ends. Did I mention they also have a full bar?

Top picks: coconut naan (appetizer), chicken vindaloo (main, non-vegetarian), channa saag (main, vegetarian), malai pista kulfi (dessert).

Rasa
149 Main St, East Greenwich
It takes a lot for a restaurant stand out among the many options on Main St. in East Greenwich, but Rasa definitely distinguishes itself with its upscale vibe and stellar service. Rasa is on the pricier side, but it’s definitely worth it for their unique take on traditional Indian cuisine. Dinner hours tend to be busy, especially on weekends, so reservations are always a good idea.

Top Picks: cauliflower 65 (appetizer), coconut mushroom chicken curry (main, meat), vegetable biryani (main, vegetarian).

Jaya’s Kitchen
615 Waterman Ave, East Providence

Since debuting earlier this year in East Providence, Jaya’s Kitchen has been giving popular nearby Providence Indian restaurants a run for their money. The interior is nothing special, but the food more than makes up for it.

Top Picks: parota (appetizer), chicken vindaloo (main, meat), paneer tikka masala (main, vegetarian), rice kheer (dessert).

Curry Walla
1525 Smith St, North Providence

Featuring cuisine from the Punjabi region, Curry Walla has made quite a name for itself since opening in North Providence last year. Featuring a welcoming environment, Curry Walla has friendly staff and a full bar. Take out service is on the slow side at times, so dine in if you can.

Top Picks: honey ginger naan (appetizer), chicken tikka masala (main, meat), malai kofta (main, vegetarian), ras malai (dessert).

Not Just Snacks
833 Hope St, Providence

The interior is nothing to write home about, but Not Just Snacks features some of the most flavorful authentic Indian cuisine on our list. Family owned and operated, this restaurant is reasonably priced (I swear the prices haven’t changed since 2010) and it's BYOB.

Top Picks: poppadom (appetizer), chicken biryani (main, meat), aloo gobi (main, vegetarian), gulab jamun (dessert).

Wherever you go, just make sure to share your leftovers with me.

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