Punjabi food has gone from family kitchens and roadside dhabas in North India and Pakistan to some of the most beloved Indian spots in the United States. Rich gravies, smoky tandoori meats, pillowy naans, creamy lassis, and slow-cooked lentils have made Punjabi restaurants a go-to choice for comfort food, celebrations, and late-night cravings.
From New York’s cabbie-favorite canteens to SoCal’s dhaba-style counters, Punjabi cuisine has adapted beautifully to the American dining scene. Whether you’re Punjabi yourself and miss “ghar ka khana,” or you’re just discovering dishes like butter chicken and sarson da saag, this guide will walk you through 10 standout Punjabi restaurants across the USA.
This isn’t a strict ranking or an exhaustive list—there are hundreds of excellent spots. Instead, it’s a curated selection of well-loved restaurants in different cities that consistently get recommended for authentic, satisfying Punjabi flavors.
What Makes Punjabi Restaurants Special?
Before diving into the list, it helps to know what sets Punjabi restaurants apart from generic “Indian” spots.
At their heart, Punjabi eateries are built around:
- Bold, hearty flavors—generous use of onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and warming spices (not just heat, but depth).
- Tandoor cooking—clay oven-baked breads like naan and roti, and charred kebabs and tikkas with smoky edges.
- Comfort-first approach – Food is often rich, butter-forward, and meant to be eaten in good company.
- Roti-sabzi culture—simple combinations of rotis (or parathas) and vegetable dishes, plus dal, yogurt, and pickles.
- Dhaba-style vibe—Many Punjabi restaurants in the USA model themselves after roadside dhabas: casual, no-frills, and all about the food.
Signature dishes you’ll often find at Punjabi restaurants include:
- Butter chicken and chicken tikka masala
- Tandoori chicken and mixed grills
- Dal makhani (slow-cooked black lentils)
- Chole (chickpea curry) and chole bhature
- Sarson da saag and makki di roti (in season)
- Paneer tikka, palak paneer, and shahi paneer
- Lassi (sweet, salty, or mango)
With that in mind, here are 10 Punjabi restaurants across the USA that are especially worth seeking out.
Punjabi Grocery & Deli
Tucked into Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the Punjabi restaurant is legendary among taxi and Uber drivers, students, and night owls. Don’t be fooled by the unassuming storefront and tiny space—this is some of the most honest, home-style Punjabi food you’ll find in the country.
This is a vegetarian, steam-table-style joint where you pick a few curries and dals, get them piled onto rice or roti, and walk out with a filling meal at very modest prices. The flavors are unapologetically Punjabi: no watering down for tourists.
What to try:
- Chana masala and aloo gobi with roti
- Saag (spinach/mustard greens) when available
- Dal and rice combos for a quick, wholesome meal
- Samosas and pakoras from the counter
Why it stands out:
It feels less like a restaurant and more like a neighborhood canteen. If you want to understand what everyday Punjabi comfort food really tastes like—not polished, not “fusion,” just real—this is a must.
Punjabi Tandoor
In Southern California, Punjabi Tandoor has built a loyal following for its no-frills approach and deeply satisfying North Indian fare. Among all the Punjabi restaurants in San Diego, this one stands out for its true dhaba-style experience—order at the counter, grab a seat, and wait for your number. You get fast-casual convenience without ever feeling like the flavors have been compromised.
The menu leans heavily Punjabi: rich, slow-cooked curries, freshly baked tandoori breads, and plenty of vegetarian options that taste like they came straight from a home kitchen. It’s the kind of place locals regularly include on their “best Punjabi restaurants in San Diego” lists—and for good reason.
What to try:
- Chicken tikka masala or classic chicken curry
- Lamb or goat dishes for meat lovers
- Saag paneer and aloo gobi
- Garlic naan and tandoori roti
- Mango lassi to cool things down
Why it stands out:
Punjabi Tandoor delivers everything people look for in Punjabi restaurants—flavor-packed gravies, solid spice levels, and generous portions—at prices that make it easy to become a regular. It’s a must-visit if you’re searching for authentic Punjabi food in San Diego.
Badmaash
If you’re looking for a modern, playful take on Punjabi food, Badmaash in Los Angeles is one of the most unique Punjabi restaurants in the USA. Run by a Sikh family, it blends the soul of a Punjabi kitchen with the energy of an LA gastropub—bold, stylish, and full of personality.
This isn’t a traditional dhaba; it’s where classic Punjabi flavors meet urban creativity. Among contemporary Punjabi restaurants, Badmaash stands out for its vibe alone: hip-hop on the speakers, street-art-inspired décor, craft beers, and a menu that fuses comfort food with Indian street-style flair.
What to try:
- Chicken tikka poutine (a cult favorite that perfectly sums up their fusion style)
- Lamb vindaloo or keema pau (spiced minced meat served with bread)
- Classic butter chicken with soft, buttery naan
- Masala fries and chili cheese naan for serious comfort-food cravings
Why it stands out:
Badmaash proves that Punjabi restaurants can evolve without losing their roots. You still taste proper Punjabi home cooking in the spices, marinades, and gravies, but the presentation, combinations, and atmosphere are distinctly modern and fun. For anyone exploring Punjabi restaurants in Los Angeles, Badmaash is a must-visit.
Punjabi Rasoi
Conveniently located on Lincoln Highway, Punjabi Rasoi is a go-to spot for anyone craving hearty, homestyle North Indian food. Among nearby Punjabi restaurants, it stands out for its straightforward, welcoming vibe and focus on classic flavors rather than frills. It feels less like a formal restaurant and more like the kind of place you’d drop into regularly for a comforting, satisfying meal.
The kitchen leans into traditional Punjabi cooking—rich gravies, fresh tandoori breads, and plenty of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options that echo the food you’d find in a typical Punjabi home or dhaba. If you’re exploring Punjabi restaurants along Lincoln Highway, this is the kind of stop that quickly turns into a favorite.
What to try (if available on the menu):
- Butter chicken or chicken tikka masala with fresh naan
- Lamb or goat curry for a deeper, slow-cooked flavor
- Saag paneer or palak paneer for a creamy vegetarian option
- Chole (chickpea curry) with bhature or rice
- Garlic naan, tandoori roti, and a cooling lassi on the side
Why it stands out:
Punjabi Rasoi captures what people love about authentic Punjabi restaurants: bold, comforting flavors, generous portions, and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down, break warm bread with rich curry, and feel like you’ve been invited to a Punjabi family table.
Dhaba
Over in “Curry Hill” on Lexington Avenue, Dhaba is one of the standout Punjabi restaurants in New York City. It brings the spirit of North Indian roadside dhabas into a more polished, sit-down setting. The name itself means a rustic highway eatery, and the menu is heavily driven by Punjabi and North Indian classics.
Think metal thalis, thick gravies, and tandoori dishes that pair perfectly with a basket of hot naan. The décor nods to Indian truck stops and village life, but the overall experience is fully urban, energetic, and very NYC—making it a favorite among fans of authentic Punjabi restaurants in the area.
What to try:
- Butter chicken or kadai chicken
- Dal makhani, slow-cooked to a creamy, smoky finish
- Tandoori mixed grill (great for sharing)
- Paneer tikka and malai kofta for vegetarians
Why it stands out:
Dhaba brings together the boldness of Punjabi roadside food with the comforts of a proper restaurant—table service, cocktails, and an atmosphere that works for both casual dinners and group celebrations. For anyone exploring Punjabi restaurants in New York City, Dhaba is an essential stop.
Punjabi Dhaba
Located in the heart of South Richmond Hill, Punjabi Dhaba is a classic example of what people love about authentic Punjabi restaurants: simple décor, big flavors, and food that tastes like it came straight from a home kitchen or roadside eatery in Punjab. It caters heavily to the local South Asian community, which means the flavors stay true to their roots—bold, comforting, and unapologetically desi.
This isn’t a fancy, sit-down fine-dining spot; it’s a dhaba in the real sense of the word. You come here for hearty North Indian and Punjabi dishes, fresh breads, and no-nonsense service. Among neighborhood Punjabi restaurants, it’s a reliable stop for everyday meals, late-night cravings, and casual family outings.
What to try (depending on the menu):
- Butter chicken or chicken curry with naan or rice
- Dal makhani or chana masala for a comforting vegetarian option
- Saag paneer or palak paneer
- Tandoori chicken or mixed grill items
- Fresh tandoori roti, naan, and a cooling lassi
Why it stands out:
Punjabi Dhaba brings the feel of North Indian highway food to Queens—affordable prices, generous portions, and deeply satisfying flavors. It captures the true spirit of Punjabi restaurants: a focus on taste over trends and a welcoming, everyday spot where you can eat like you would in a Punjabi pind (village).
Punjabi Spice
Situated on 2nd Avenue in the East Village, Punjabi Spice is a cozy spot that brings the warmth and flavor of North India to downtown Manhattan. Among the Punjabi Restaurants in New York City, it stands out for offering homestyle Punjabi dishes in a relaxed, neighborhood-friendly setting that works just as well for a casual dinner as it does for a quick bite.
The menu leans toward classic Punjabi comfort food—rich curries, tandoori specialties, and a solid range of vegetarian options. It’s the kind of place where you can sit down, order a few dishes to share, and enjoy the familiar, satisfying flavors that define good Punjabi Restaurants.
What to try (depending on the menu):
- Butter chicken or chicken tikka masala with fresh naan
- Lamb or goat curry for something more robust
- Saag paneer or palak paneer for a creamy vegetarian choice
- Chana masala or aloo gobi with rice or roti
- Garlic naan, tandoori roti, and a lassi to complete the meal
Why it stands out:
Punjabi Spice offers the essence of traditional Punjabi Restaurants—bold spices, hearty portions, and comforting recipes—in a convenient East Village location. It’s a reliable choice whenever you’re craving genuine Punjabi flavor in the heart of Manhattan.
Punjabi Dhaba – Chicago, IL
Chicago’s Devon Avenue is famous for its South Asian eateries, and Punjabi Dhaba fits right in as a spot focused on homestyle North Indian and Punjabi comfort food. Among the many Punjabi Restaurants in the area, it stands out for its straightforward, no-frills vibe: come hungry, order at the counter, and dig in.
The restaurant caters strongly to the local desi community, which usually means the flavors lean authentic rather than overly toned down—exactly what people look for when they search for true Punjabi Restaurants and dhaba-style meals.
What to try:
- Chole, rajma, and dal with rice or roti
- Saag paneer and mixed vegetable curries
- Chicken curry, goat curry, or tandoori chicken
- Lassi or chai to round out the meal
Why it stands out:
Punjabi Dhaba is exactly what its name suggests—unpretentious, filling, and focused on satisfying North Indian and Punjabi flavors. It’s a dependable stop if you’re exploring Devon Avenue’s food scene and want a genuine Punjabi Restaurants experience in Chicago.
Veeray Da Dhaba
Located in the East Village, Veeray Da Dhaba brings the lively, rustic charm of a Punjabi roadside eatery right into downtown Manhattan. Among the Punjabi Restaurants in New York City, this spot feels especially authentic—colorful, casual, and full of the bold, comforting flavors you’d expect from a true dhaba. It’s the kind of place where you come for food first: rich curries, fresh breads, and no-nonsense Punjabi soul food.
The menu leans heavily into North Indian and Punjabi classics, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options that taste like they could have come from a Punjabi home kitchen. If you’re exploring Punjabi Restaurants in the East Village, Veeray Da Dhaba is a must-visit for a relaxed, flavor-packed meal.
What to try (depending on the menu):
- Butter chicken or chicken curry with naan
- Amritsari fish or tandoori chicken
- Saag paneer, chole, or dal makhani
- A thali (platter) to sample multiple Punjabi dishes at once
- Garlic naan, tandoori roti, and a lassi or masala chai
Why it stands out:
Veeray Da Dhaba captures the true spirit of Punjabi Restaurants—hearty portions, robust spices, and a laid-back, dhaba-style vibe in the middle of Manhattan. It’s perfect for anyone craving real Punjabi comfort food without leaving the city.
Patiala Indian Grill & Bar
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, just a short walk from Penn Station, Patiala Indian Grill & Bar brings the rich flavors of North India to one of the busiest parts of the city. Among nearby Punjabi Restaurants, it stands out for combining a vibrant bar atmosphere with hearty, Punjabi-inspired comfort food—making it a great choice for office crowds, pre- or post-event meals, and casual dinners with friends.
The name “Patiala” itself comes from a famous city in Punjab, and the menu reflects that heritage with classic North Indian and Punjabi-style dishes, tandoori specialties, and plenty of vegetarian options. With its modern setting, full bar, and familiar flavors, it bridges the gap between traditional Punjabi Restaurants and a contemporary Midtown grill and bar.
What to try (if available on the menu):
- Butter chicken or chicken tikka masala with fresh naan
- Tandoori chicken or a mixed tandoori grill platter
- Lamb curry or lamb rogan josh for a richer option
- Dal makhani, saag paneer, or chana masala for vegetarians
- Garlic naan, tandoori roti, and a lassi or one of their house cocktails
Why it stands out:
Patiala Indian Grill & Bar offers the depth of flavor you’d expect from good Punjabi Restaurants, but in a sleek, central Manhattan location with a full bar and lively vibe. It’s an ideal spot when you want robust Punjabi and North Indian dishes without leaving Midtown—whether you’re on a lunch break, meeting colleagues after work, or grabbing a satisfying meal before catching a train.
How to Get the Best Experience at Punjabi Restaurants
No matter which city you’re in, a few simple tips can help you get the most from your visit to Punjabi Restaurants:
- Ask what’s popular with regulars. Staff will often steer you toward the dishes locals love, which are usually the strengths of the kitchen.
- Don’t skip the breads. Naan, roti, and parathas are central to a Punjabi meal and transform how you experience the curries.
- Balance your order. Pair one rich, creamy dish (like butter chicken or dal makhani) with something lighter (like tandoori meats or dry sabzis) and a yogurt-based side.
- Mind the spice level. Authentic Punjabi food can pack heat. If you’re new, say “medium spice” and adjust on future visits.
- Go family style. Punjabi meals are meant for sharing. Order a spread and let everyone taste a bit of everything.
Final Thoughts
From no-frills dhabas to modern gastropubs, Punjabi Restaurants in the USA cover the full spectrum of dining experiences—but they’re united by one thing: a deep devotion to bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re standing at a tiny counter in New York, grabbing a quick thali in Cambridge, or sitting down for a family feast in Edison or LA, Punjabi food has a way of making you feel at home.
Use this list as a starting point, but don’t stop here. Every city with a significant South Asian community likely has its own hidden-gem Punjabi Restaurants—small, family-run places where the dal tastes like it simmered all day and the naan arrives hot enough to tear with your fingers.
FAQs About Punjabi Restaurants in the USA
Q1. What kind of food do Punjabi Restaurants serve?
Punjabi Restaurants mainly serve North Indian food with rich curries, tandoori dishes, fresh naan, and hearty lentils like dal makhani and chole.
Q2. Are Punjabi Restaurants good for vegetarians?
Yes, most Punjabi Restaurants have many vegetarian options like saag paneer, chole, rajma, aloo gobi, and various lentil dishes.
Q3. Is the food at Punjabi Restaurants very spicy?
Not always—most Punjabi Restaurants in the USA can adjust the spice level, so you can ask for mild, medium, or spicy.
Q4. What should I try first at a Punjabi restaurant?
Popular beginner-friendly choices include butter chicken, chicken tikka masala, garlic naan, dal makhani, and mango lassi.
Q5. Do Punjabi Restaurants offer takeout and delivery?
Yes, many Punjabi Restaurants offer takeout and delivery through their own website or apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub.
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