The 9 Best Indian Restaurants in Iowa!

For some of the most authentic flavors you’ll find in Iowa, across the state you’ll find great, authentic Indian restaurants. With a variety of great menu items including appetizers, soups, breads, and different entree items featuring chicken, lamb and vegetarian fare, it’s easy to find a great Indian restaurant in Iowa near you. While take-out is always an option, the real way to go at these great Indian restaurants in Iowa is either the lunch buffets or enjoying the superior service by dining in.

Masala, Iowa City, IA

For an authentic Indian meal in a welcoming environment, Masala in downtown Iowa City has long been a cultural eatery institute in this university town. Popular with college students and the surrounding community, favorite items at Masala include samosas, chicken tikka masala and lamb bhuna. A great way to go at Masala is their daily lunch buffet, which gives patrons the chance to discover new favorites.

India Star, Des Moines, IA

One of the best Indian restaurants in the Des Moines metro, India Star is a shining beacon of authentic, delicious North Indian dishes made to order. Featuring an extensive menu since 1997, this family-owned restaurant is a great place to grab a lunch buffet full of great flavors and fresh-made naan. For dinners, patrons also have a lot to choose from including tandoori, curry and a variety of lamb and vegetarian entrees.

Haveli Indian Cuisine, Coralville, IA

Combining traditional flavors with a modern taste, Haveli Indian Cuisine provides a long menu and great atmosphere to enjoy Indian cuisine. While take out is an option, it’s highly recommended to enjoy the superior service inside the restaurant. Popular menu items include soups, chats, breads and huge selection of vegetable, beef, chicken and lamb entrees. For the full experience, be sure to check out Haveli Indian Cuisine.

India Cafe, Fairfield and Iowa City, IA

For another great Indian option in Iowa City, India Cafe provides all the flavors, aromas and service that will have you coming back for more. Popular appetizers and entrees at Indian Cafe include datata wada, paneer paratha, chana masala and tandoori chicken. Available for dine-in and take-out, a great way to go at Indian Cafe is the lunch buffet, and whichever way you enjoy this local cuisine, you’ll be sure to find the flavors to make this Indian restaurant your favorite.

Indian Tadka, Waukee, IA

Another great Indian restaurant in the Des Moines metro, Indian Tadka provides authentic Indian flavors for all to enjoy. Featuring a long list of authentic appetizers, entrees and add-ons, while it’s the food that provides the off-the-charts flavors at this family-owned restaurant, it’s the superior service that has cemented this restaurant in the community.

Shahi India Grill, Sioux City, IA

With two locations, one is Sioux City and another across state borders in Sioux Falls, there is twice the chance to catch the delicious flavors found at Shahi. Featuring lunch, dinner and drinks, popular dishes at Shahi include but are not limited to chicken curry, dal soup, tikka masala and madras. While you are there, be sure to try for yourself an authentic Indian beer which goes well with any meal.

India Palace, Ames, IA

India Palace has been serving up delicious flavors to the Ames community since 2005. Combing authentic recipes and tastes with Western influences, patrons to India Palace can find a variety of appetizers, soups, breads and mouthwatering entrees to enjoy any day of the week. Popular dishes include lamb egg curry, chicken vindaloo and vegetable biryani. Whatever it is you choose, you’ll be sure to come back for more at this family owned eatery.

Taj Mahal, Cedar Rapids, IA

For some authentic Indian taste, head on down to the Taj Mahal in Cedar Rapids. Family owned and operated, there is many ways to enjoy the different flavors at the Taj Mahal, including an award-winning lunch buffet. Whether you dine in, order out or peruse the buffet line, it’s quick to see at the Taj Mahal that this is the best Indian restaurant in all of Cedar Rapids.

Mantra Indian Cuisine and Spirits, Davenport, IA

A self touted place where traditional meets modern, Mantra Indian Cuisine and Spirits is a great place for every member of the community. A great introduction to the menu at Mantra is the daily lunch buffet which features all the flavors at this popular Indian restaurant. While you are there, be sure to enjoy your meal with an authentic Indian spirit.

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