Where to find the Best Indian in New Zealand

Indian cuisine exudes bold flavours, rich colours, and warm hospitality. Luckily, here in Aotearoa, there is an abundance of Indian restaurants across the motu, where sizzle and aromatics meet cosy ambience. Whether you like a classic Butter Chicken or prefer diving into more adventurous dishes from this bustling culture, we have put together our top 10 Indian restaurants in New Zealand so you can chase the flavour.
-
Tucked into Auckland’s Parnell district, Urban Vibes Bar & Restaurant unveils traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Featuring mural street art, sandy coloured walls, and shelves of liquor bottles, this restaurant delivers a humble and lively street setting that blends graciously with big flavours. Their signature dishes include the butter chicken, village-style goat curry, and Hyderabadi dum biryani, and a range of appetisers for an authentic evening of Indian flavours. One of the best Indian restaurants in Auckland, book a night here for your next dinner out.
-
Capturing the spirit and energy of Mumbai's Bombay Irani cafes, V.T Station unravels a tapestry of Indian cuisines, flavours, and aromas. Blending the vibrant nature of the streets of Mumbai with flavour and quality, this is one of the best Auckland Indian restaurants. Indulge in sharing platters straight from the tandoori grill, or curries bursting with aromatics and heat. This is a great place to visit with friends, or just for a romantic night out, V.T Station whisks guests off to Mumbai's Victoria Terminus right in Auckland.
-
Tucked into Fort Lane in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, Cassia Restaurant exudes a quiet luxury, without compromising on cosy ambience. Featuring draping lanterns overhead, brick wall accents, and unique columns that give the illusion of a metrol terminal, this restaurant delivers urban vibes with a contemporary twist. Sip one of their yummy cocktails and take a journey through India with their set menu. You won’t be disappointed!
-
Perched above the city streets and bathed in sunlight, this restaurant in Auckland CBD brings a golden atmosphere and elegant dishes. Drawing inspiration from Mumbai’s vibrant street food culture, Sunset delivers an aromatic and warming menu accompanied by its range of cocktails, local beers, and wine. The DJ in the background curates a laidback soundtrack to ensure the perfect energy for your evening.
-
Coriander’s on St Asaph Street is the bold Indian dining destination of Christchurch - where big flavour and big heart come together in a stylish indoor-outdoor setting. From sizzling tandoor classics to rich, spiced curries, it’s the kind of place that feels both elevated and welcoming since it opened its doors in 2006. Whether it’s a night out with mates or a family feast, this is Indian cuisine done right.
-
Mumbaiwala Christchurch serves authentic, aromatic flavours, inspired by the colourful streets of Mumbai, and is considered one of the best Indian restaurants in Christchurch. And just like the locals do in Mumbai, these dishes are meant to be shared. So be sure to book an evening here with friends or family! Their signature dishes include crackling Cauliflower Manchurian and the delightful Palak Paneer Tikka, where spices are bold and ingredients are fresh and local. Be sure to try their Dahi Puri—mini puff pastry shells filled with mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spicy yoghurt.
-
Bringing you India's iconic street food, but served in a tapas style, Chaat Street is a unique way to experience India’s culture and cuisine and Wellington’s best Indian restaurant. These flavourful dishes are served up amidst a lively atmosphere that pays homage to the street vendors in India. Be sure to sample their pani puri and aromatic samosas. The restaurant itself has a warm and welcoming ambience that captures a humble yet tasty night out in the heart of Wellington.
-
Capturing the diverse flavours and colours of India, right in the heart of the mountains. With the views of the lake and the soaring mountains, dig into a spicy and aromatic menu that effortlessly combines traditional dishes with fiery street food. The restaurant has charming decor reminiscent of the iconic Taj Mahal, and exudes an elegance and warmth fit for a Queenstown location.
-
Just a stone’s throw from Auckland’s city centre, KOL in Grey Lynn exudes a relaxed and laidback atmosphere. It attracts diners from all over for its unique Indian fire-cooking method. While it uses fresh New Zealand produce, each bite bursts with authentic Indian flavours such as succulent tandoor meats, wood-fired mains, and refreshing cocktails. Don’t forget to try the 12-hour marinated goat leg or pork belly served with Goan chorizo.
-
With its distinct setting, Satya Chai Lounge brings you right into the heart of India’s streets. Tapestries draping from the walls, wooden beams overhead, and old-fashioned lanterns dusting the dining room in colourful light. For a casual evening out in a cosy spot you won’t forget, Satya Chai Lounge serves up a range of authentic Indian street dishes, including their signature snack dahi puri and kurryaage spiced chicken.