Introduction
Craving the aromatic spices and vibrant flavors of India? Evanston has you covered. This charming city, known for its thriving arts scene, beautiful lakefront, and top-notch university, also boasts a surprisingly rich and diverse culinary landscape. And when it comes to international cuisine, Evanston’s Indian food scene shines brightly. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Indian fare or a curious newcomer eager to explore new tastes, Evanston offers a delectable array of restaurants that promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
From the rich, creamy curries of the north to the tangy, flavorful dosas of the south, Indian cuisine is a tapestry of regional specialties, each dish telling a story of tradition and culture. This article serves as your guide to navigating Evanston’s best Indian restaurants, highlighting standout dishes, unique atmospheres, and the overall dining experiences that make each establishment special. Prepare to embark on a flavorful adventure and discover the best Indian food Evanston has to offer. The range of Indian restaurants in Evanston ensures there is something to entice every palette.
A Taste of North India: Flavors You Know and Love
Let’s begin our exploration with a focus on North Indian cuisine, perhaps the most familiar style of Indian food to many. Known for its rich sauces, tandoor-cooked meats, and use of dairy products, North Indian food offers a comforting and satisfying dining experience.
Maharaja Indian Restaurant
Located on Sherman Avenue, Maharaja Indian Restaurant is a long-standing Evanston favorite known for its elegant ambiance and consistently delicious food. The interior is decorated with traditional Indian art, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Stepping through the door feels like stepping into a different world, offering a welcome escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Maharaja specializes in North Indian cuisine, with an extensive menu featuring classic dishes like Butter Chicken, Saag Paneer, and Lamb Rogan Josh. The Butter Chicken, a creamy tomato-based curry with tender pieces of tandoori chicken, is a particular highlight. The spices are perfectly balanced, creating a dish that is both rich and flavorful. The Saag Paneer, made with fresh spinach and homemade cheese, is another vegetarian delight. For a truly authentic experience, try their Lamb Rogan Josh, a flavorful lamb stew simmered in a rich Kashmiri spice blend. Entrees range from moderately priced to slightly more expensive, making it a great option for a special occasion.
Vegetarian and vegan options abound at Maharaja. They offer a wide selection of vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and rice preparations. The restaurant is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.
Service at Maharaja is attentive and professional. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and can provide recommendations based on your preferences. The restaurant also offers catering services, making it a great option for parties and events. A recent Yelp reviewer raved, “Maharaja is the best Indian food in Evanston! The service is always excellent, and the food is consistently delicious.” Maharaja earns its high ranking by providing patrons with delicious and authentic food. The restaurant’s continued success can be attributed to its commitment to quality and service.
Mount Everest Restaurant
Offering a unique fusion of Indian and Nepalese flavors, Mount Everest Restaurant on Davis Street provides a slightly different but equally enticing culinary experience. The restaurant’s name reflects its diverse menu, which features dishes from both the Indian subcontinent and the Himalayan region. This establishment presents a wonderful blend of different styles of cooking.
The atmosphere at Mount Everest is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends and family. Their menu includes popular Indian dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala and Vegetable Biryani, but it also showcases Nepalese specialties like Momo (dumplings) and Thukpa (noodle soup). The Chicken Tikka Masala is a perennial favorite, featuring tender pieces of chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. The Vegetable Biryani, a fragrant rice dish with vegetables and spices, is a great vegetarian option. Don’t miss the Momo, steamed dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground meat or vegetables, served with a spicy dipping sauce. Mount Everest maintains a middle-of-the-road price point, making it accessible to all diners.
Mount Everest caters to a variety of dietary needs, with a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. The staff is happy to provide information about ingredients and can customize dishes to meet your preferences. The service is friendly and efficient, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. “I love the fusion of Indian and Nepalese food here,” wrote one satisfied Google reviewer. “The Momo are a must-try!” The restaurant presents an eclectic menu with many delectable dishes. The warm ambiance and kind staff make the experience all the more appealing.
South Indian Delights: A Different Kind of Spice
For those seeking a bolder, more vibrant flavor profile, Evanston’s South Indian restaurants offer a tantalizing alternative. South Indian cuisine is characterized by its use of rice, lentils, and spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and chilies.
Arya Bhavan (Located just outside Evanston)
While technically located in Skokie, just a short drive from Evanston, Arya Bhavan is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic South Indian cuisine. This vegetarian restaurant specializes in dosas, uttapam, and other South Indian specialties. The restaurant is committed to showcasing the breadth of South Indian cuisine.
The atmosphere at Arya Bhavan is simple and unpretentious, focusing on the food. Their menu features a wide variety of dosas, thin crepes made from rice and lentil batter, filled with savory fillings like potatoes, onions, and spices. The Mysore Masala Dosa, filled with a spicy potato mixture and a flavorful chutney, is a standout dish. The restaurant also offers a selection of uttapam, thick pancakes made from the same batter as dosas, topped with vegetables and spices. Don’t miss the Sambar, a flavorful lentil stew served with dosas and uttapam. Prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal.
As a vegetarian restaurant, Arya Bhavan offers a wide selection of plant-based dishes. Many of their dishes are also vegan-friendly. The service is friendly and efficient. “The dosas here are incredible,” exclaimed a recent TripAdvisor reviewer. “So authentic and flavorful!” Arya Bhavan brings South Indian delicacies to the northern suburbs of Chicago. The simple and delicious menu makes the restaurant a must-try.
Beyond the Restaurants: A Complete Indian Experience
Exploring Indian food in Evanston goes beyond just dining at restaurants. Several other avenues allow you to immerse yourself in the flavors and culture of India.
Indian Groceries
While there isn’t a dedicated Indian grocery store directly in Evanston, Patel Brothers, a popular Indian grocery chain, has a location in nearby Skokie. Here, you can find a vast selection of spices, lentils, rice, snacks, and other ingredients to create your own Indian dishes at home. This location is an invaluable asset to any cook or enthusiast.
Cooking Classes
Keep an eye out for cooking classes offered at community centers or cooking schools in Evanston or the surrounding areas. Some classes may focus on Indian cuisine, providing hands-on instruction in preparing classic dishes.
Community Events
Evanston often hosts cultural events and festivals that feature food from around the world. Keep an eye out for events that showcase Indian cuisine. These are great opportunities to sample a variety of dishes and learn more about Indian culture.
Tips for Ordering and Enjoying Indian Food
Navigating an Indian menu can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for newcomers. Here are a few tips to enhance your dining experience:
Understand Spice Levels
Indian restaurants typically offer dishes in varying spice levels, ranging from mild to hot. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations based on your tolerance for spice. When in doubt, start with a mild or medium spice level and adjust accordingly.
Explore Different Dishes
Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the familiar dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken. Indian cuisine offers a vast array of regional specialties, vegetarian options, and unique flavor combinations. Ask your server for recommendations or try a tasting menu to sample a variety of dishes.
Pair Food with Drinks
Indian food pairs well with a variety of beverages. Mango Lassi, a creamy yogurt-based drink, is a classic pairing for spicy dishes. Chai, a spiced tea, is a comforting and warming option. Beer, especially light lagers, can also complement the flavors of Indian food.
Ordering for a Group
When dining with a group, consider ordering a variety of dishes to share. This allows everyone to sample different flavors and textures. Be sure to include a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Leftovers
Indian food often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Don’t be afraid to take home leftovers and enjoy them for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
Evanston’s Indian food scene is a testament to the city’s diverse culinary landscape. From the elegant ambiance of Maharaja to the fusion flavors of Mount Everest and the authentic South Indian cuisine of Arya Bhavan, there is something to satisfy every palate. So, next time you’re craving the vibrant flavors of India, be sure to explore the culinary treasures that Evanston has to offer! The rich and varied Indian restaurants in Evanston are well worth a visit.
From savory curries to fragrant biryanis, and from spicy dosas to comforting naan, a culinary adventure awaits in Evanston’s Indian restaurants. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian food lover or a curious newcomer, prepare to be delighted by the depth and complexity of flavors that Evanston’s Indian dining scene has to offer. Go forth and enjoy the rich aromas and tantalizing tastes. Bon appétit!
