As the world’s second most populous nation and seventh largest country in the world, sharing land borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, Indian cuisine represents an extensive range of flavors and textures with a complexity that is worth deeper understanding.
“Indian food is so extensive and varied,” says Hemant Kishore of the Toddy Shop. “It’s something I grew up with, so it reminds me of home. It’s home cooking.”
Kishore is part of a growing Indian diaspora in Las Vegas with closely related strongholds in Henderson and the southwest. However, there are more and more Indian restaurants throughout the valley. Lunch buffets are common. Vegetarian options are important. Any restaurant that specializes in North Indian cuisine will immediately let you know that Chicken Tikka Masala is their most popular product. And while it has its appeal to pull a piece of naan bread through a creamy sauce, the dish represents only a fraction of what a country like India has to offer.
“The kitchen changes every 20 or 30 miles,” says Ritesh Patel of the Curry Leaf. Chicken, wheat, and cream are common in the north, while dosas, rice, and seafood are more common in the south. But this is just the beginning. In between there are countless recipes and flavors.
“It’s delicious cuisine with many health benefits,” adds Kishore. “I want people to experience it and understand that it’s not scary.” Fortunately, Las Vegas has nothing to worry about. As we celebrate Diwali this week, broaden your horizons with the best Indian restaurants the city has to offer.
Rob Kachelriess has been writing about Las Vegas for Thrillist for more than eight years. His work has also appeared in Travel + Leisure, Trivago Magazine, Sophisticated Living, Modern Luxury, Leafly, Las Vegas Magazine, and other publications. He’s a medium spicy guy. Follow him on Twitter @rkachelriess.
