Flavors of New York Spotlight on: Incredible Indian Restaurants

SONA

SONA offers a modern twist on traditional Indian dishes, with options ranging from tandoori meats to vegetarian curries. Enjoy shareable items like the Tikka Flatbread and Thali platters with choices like the Coastal Shrimp Curry and Paneer Lababdar. The restaurant also features an extensive cocktail menu, including unique options such as mango lassi-inspired drinks and spice-infused gin and tonics, with flavorful choices like the Hazel Lost in Manhattan, which features cardamom.

36 E. 20th St., 212.203.6460, sona-nyc.com

Aroqa

Try upscale contemporary Indian cuisine at Aroqa. The sleek space and traditional Indian classics provide the perfect combination. Diners can enjoy exclusive lunch specials, weekend brunch items (like the “Indian Masala Omelette”), and dinner items like the “Peri Peri Prawns” and “Shredded Crab With Lentil Soup Shots.” The menu features plenty of meat and seafood along with various vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free items. Aroqa also has numerous shareable plates like the “Goan Shrimp Curry” and the “Chef’s Special Goat Keema Matar.”

206 9th Ave., 646.678.5471, aroqanyc.com

Jaz

Jaz offers a modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine, with dishes like tandoori shrimp and roasted eggplant with paneer. The restaurant also has a diverse cocktail and wine menu, making it a perfect spot for a special meal or evening out. The restaurant features a tasty set menu in addition to the a la carte options, where diners can try out items like the Lasuni Gobi and the Chicken Shahi Korma. If you’re catching a show, check out the Jaz pre-theatre menu with selections like the Onion Bhajia, Lamb Chettinad and Rasmalai.

813 9th Ave., 917.675.7440, jazindiancuisine.com

Honest

Honest is known for serving traditional vegetarian Indian street food, using its own proprietary spice blends and fresh ingredients cooked to order. Their signature dishes include Bhaji Pav and Pulav, and you’ll also find a selection of exotically-flavored sandwiches on the menu. The restaurant originally started as a small street cart in Law Garden, Ahmedabad, India, in the 1960s and has now expanded to a location in NYC’s Bleecker Street. They also have a bakery in New Jersey where they make fresh dinner rolls, or pav, for their Bhaji Pav dish.

176 Bleecker St., 917.261.2610, nychonest.com

Malai Marke

Malai Marke in the Upper East Side brings great food and a great atmosphere to the table. In addition to its fusion dishes (like the Vegetable Hakka Noodles) and the imaginative takes on classic dishes (like the Chicken Tikka Kebab Rolls), the restaurant also offers traditional favorites like Butter Chicken and Vegetable Samosas. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with warm decor and friendly staff. Overall, Malai Marke offers a unique dining experience with delicious and diverse Indian cuisine.

318 E. 6th St., 212.777.7729, malaimarke.com