Indian has a rich tapestry of flavors, spices, and culinary traditions that have captivated the world. While casual Indian dining is popular in many parts of the USA, there are select Indian restaurants that offer a premium, luxurious experience for those willing to indulge in the finest flavors of India. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience and are ready to splurge, here are some of the most expensive Indian restaurants in the USA.
1. Junoon – New York City, NY
With a Michelin star to its name, Junoon is one of the most prestigious Indian restaurants in the USA. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Junoon offers a fusion of traditional Indian spices with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s ambiance exudes sophistication, with an elegant setting that complements its top-tier dishes.
Signature Dish: The five-course tasting menu, priced at around $95 per person, offers a curated experience of diverse Indian flavors, including their famous lamb chops and lobster tandoori. For a truly extravagant experience, pair it with a wine selection, which can take the bill beyond $200.
Why It’s Expensive: Junoon uses the finest ingredients sourced globally and its Michelin-starred status guarantees impeccable quality, service, and presentation.
2. Campton Place – San Francisco, CA
Campton Place, a part of the luxurious Taj Campton Place Hotel, is another Michelin-starred Indian restaurant that redefines traditional Indian cuisine. Chef Srijith Gopinathan blends California’s fresh, local ingredients with traditional Indian techniques, creating a unique blend of flavors known as “Cal-Indian” cuisine.
Signature Dish: The nine-course tasting menu, priced at $175 per person, is a delightful journey through refined Indian flavors, with dishes like foie gras with tamarind chutney and spiced lobster.
Why It’s Expensive: The combination of Michelin-quality dining, fresh Californian ingredients, and exceptional presentation creates a luxury experience worth the price.
3. Rasa – Burlingame, CA
Situated in the Bay Area, Rasa is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers modern South Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Rasa’s menu features a blend of traditional South Indian dishes, prepared with premium ingredients and a gourmet touch.
Signature Dish: A meal at Rasa may cost $100 per person or more, with standout items like their lobster curry or lamb vindaloo. The ambiance is sleek and intimate, perfect for an upscale dining experience.
Why It’s Expensive: Rasa’s use of organic, fresh ingredients and the finesse of each dish’s preparation contribute to the higher price point.
4. Badmaash – Los Angeles, CA
A modern Indian gastropub, Badmaash in LA combines a trendy setting with innovative takes on classic Indian street food. While the prices may not reach the heights of Michelin-starred establishments, Badmaash’s unique menu, fusion of flavors, and chic atmosphere make it one of the pricier Indian spots in LA.
Signature Dish: The butter chicken samosas and lamb burgers are crowd favorites. For a complete meal with cocktails, expect to spend $75-$100 per person.
Why It’s Expensive: Located in Downtown LA, Badmaash charges a premium for its creative menu, trendy vibes, and prime location.
5. Vikas Khanna’s Kinara – Jersey City, NJ
Vikas Khanna, a Michelin-starred chef and culinary ambassador of Indian cuisine, has created Kinara, a high-end Indian restaurant that brings together traditional flavors with contemporary artistry. This restaurant is ideal for those who seek an immersive cultural and gastronomic experience.
Signature Dish: The tasting menu can cost upwards of $150 per person, offering delicacies like truffle naan, smoked lamb, and black cod with curry.
Why It’s Expensive: With a world-renowned chef at the helm and an exquisite menu, Kinara offers a fine dining experience with prices that match its exceptional quality.
6. Indian Accent – New York City, NY
Indian Accent has quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest Indian restaurants in the world, and its New York location brings the sophistication of Indian cuisine to the American culinary landscape. Chef Manish Mehrotra’s inventive dishes blend Indian traditions with global techniques, creating an experience that’s both familiar and revolutionary.
Signature Dish: Their prix-fixe dinner, priced at around $115 per person, includes dishes like ghee-roasted lamb and tamarind-glazed duck. The optional wine pairing elevates the dining experience and pushes the price higher.
Why It’s Expensive: Indian Accent’s innovative approach to traditional cuisine, coupled with the quality of ingredients and modern presentation, ensures a high price tag for a memorable meal.
Conclusion
Dining at one of the most expensive Indian restaurants in the USA is not just about enjoying food—it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, tradition, and modern interpretations of one of the world’s most beloved cuisines. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred experience at Junoon or a modern twist at Indian Accent, these restaurants offer a taste of India that is as rich as its history. For those seeking a luxurious culinary adventure, these establishments are a must-visit.
So, next time you’re in New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, and you’re in the mood to splurge on an unforgettable Indian meal, you know where to go!
The Most Expensive Foods You’ve Ever Seen in the USA await you at these iconic Indian dining spots—where luxury meets flavor in every bite.