For those of us who are self-proclaimed Foodies, Montclair and Essex County provide endless choices of food from all over the world. There are Greek, French, Portuguese, Japanese, and Italian cuisines, and many more international flavors seemingly around every corner. Indian cuisine provides a cornucopia of flavors due to the many variations and styles of cooking. Also, Indian dishes from the South of India differ greatly from the North of India. There is traditional fare, street food, modern takes on classic dishes, and the vision of a new generation of chefs. Read on for our guide to Indian food in Montclair and Essex County, featuring spices, masalas, samosas, paneers, naans, rotis, aromatic, vibrant curries, and new Indian culinary creations.
Apna Punjab Indian Restaurant | 619 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield
A visit to Apna Punjab is a great opportunity for families to immerse themselves in the traditional flavors of Punjab Indian food and culture. The menu is extensive, including Tandoori Khazana, Rotis, Naans, vegetarian choices as well as seafood, chicken, lamb and goat specialties. We are told The Egg Curry is a favorite. Apna Punjab also has an All You Can Eat lunch buffet every Saturday and Sunday.
Read More: Where to Take Your Parents Out to Eat in Northern New Jersey
Basil Indian + Thai Grill | 117 Watchung Avenue, Montclair
Basil Indian and Thai Grill invites guests to experience the cuisines of India, Thailand and Indo-Chinese menus, all under one roof. The team also serves vegan and plant-based dishes, making this restaurant inclusive of all appetites. We enjoyed the Thai Basil Fried Rice and, whether you are vegan or not, the Vegan Drumstick Manchurian in a sweet and sour chili sauce is sure to please. The Indo-Chinese Chili Garlic Noodles can serve a whole family and the restaurant’s best seller, India’s Delhi Wala Chicken Changezi, is a must try.
Chatni Indian Restaurant | 381 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
If you are spending a day strolling down Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair and thinking about Indian food, Chanti Indian Restaurant will welcome all comers with open arms. Open for 11 years, the team has created a loyal fan base for its Indian and Nepalese-influenced menu. There is also a kid’s menu, which is ideal for a family.
Dhamaal | 11 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair + Four Monkeys | 83 Summit Avenue, Summit
Dhamaal is the place to be if looking for a chic, metropolitan vibe. The menu is steeped in Indian heritage, then twisted upside down, resulting in a whimsical array of dishes that are familiar and new all at once. MG suggests The Duck Pepper Fry which is cooked in a banana leaf. Make sure to try The Kokam Branzino and The Chicken Tikka Pizza as well. For a sweet ending, The Gulkanth Rose Kulfi Indian ice cream is stunning. New to Dhamaal is live music every other Wednesday night, and make sure not to miss the Sunday brunch menu which is accompanied by a live violinist. When in Summit, make sure to visit the owner’s other restaurant, Four Monkeys, which is an intimate space serving traditional Indian fare.
Jalwa | 215 Glenridge Avenue, Montclair, Tashan | 555 Passaic Avenue, West Caldwell, + Bukhara Grill Caterer | 37 Chestnut Street, Ridgewood
The menu at family-run Jalwa is a modern take on North Indian cuisine with an emphasis on roasting spices to slowly build flavor. The owners of Jalwa return to India regularly for new inspiration and bring back creative ideas for the menu. We recommend the Palak Chaat appetizer which features crispy spinach, pomegranate, yogurt and two chutneys. Dal Bukhara, a black lentil dish cooked over a low fire for twenty-four hours, will melt in your mouth. For those craving classic Indian food, visit its sister restaurant Tashan, which is located in West Caldwell. The family also owns Bukhara Grill Caterers in Ridgewood to host parties and events. The enterprise’s fourth location, Bukhara Grill, will open soon in New York City.
Mumbai Muskaa | 150 Valley Road, Montclair
Mumbai Muskaa makes guests feel at home while experiencing elevated Indian street food and modern twists on traditional Indian dishes. MG loved the aromatic Tandoori Lamb chops which are decadent, and the marinated Kerela Shrimp is a great appetizer for sharing. Leave room for dessert. The Orange Kulfi is a refreshing frozen dish, redefining the traditional orange slices served at the end of an Indian meal.
See More: A Guide to Indian Food in Hoboken + Jersey City
Tandoori Chef 2 | 168 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood
When in Maplewood, make sure to eat at Tandoori Chef 2. Amit Bhaiya’s passion and love of his heritage and Indian food will speak to all of one’s senses upon arrival. Everything is made by hand and locally sourced ingredients are a priority. The samosas are made fresh everyday and the naans and rotis are made to order. We really enjoyed the Lamb Rogan Josh which is served in a silky yogurt curry. The Chicken Tikka Masala is a favorite of Maplewood locals and now we know why.
