Canada is home to an excitingly diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to Indian food, the country does not disappoint. From Toronto’s vibrant Little India to Vancouver’s contemporary fusion kitchens, you’ll find everything from comforting curries to crispy street food that bursts with flavour.
But with so many delicious options, where should you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 must-try Indian dishes and share our favourite Canadian restaurants where you can experience them.
And if you’d rather skip the restaurant waitlists? Here’s a little secret: you can enjoy authentic Indian food cooked fresh for you at home by booking a private chef in Canada.
So, whether it’s a cosy date night or a big family feast, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Indian cuisine in Canada.
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10 signature Indian dishes you must try in Canada
Indian food is more than a meal, it’s a journey of flavour, colour, and aroma. From the bustling markets of Delhi to the coastal kitchens of Kerala, each dish carries centuries of tradition and creativity.
Here are the 10 Indian dishes that should be on your foodie bucket list:
Butter Chicken
Probably the most famous Indian dish worldwide, butter chicken (or murgh makhani) is a creamy tomato-based curry that’s equal parts rich and comforting. Tender chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a tandoor, and then simmered in a silky sauce made with butter, tomatoes, cream, and garam masala. The result? A mildly spiced, velvety dish that pairs beautifully with fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice.
Rogan Josh
Originating from the valleys of Kashmir, Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked lamb curry that’s as aromatic as it is flavourful.
The lamb is braised with a medley of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and Kashmiri red chili, giving it a vibrant red hue without being overly hot. The meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it a luxurious dish, often served with basmati rice or naan.
Chole Bhature
A North Indian street food staple, Chole Bhature is the ultimate comfort combo. Chole refers to the spiced chickpea curry simmered with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a bold blend of spices. Bhature are deep-fried, fluffy breads that puff up like balloons when fried.
Together, they create a hearty, indulgent meal that’s tangy, spicy, and satisfying, a weekend brunches favourite across India.
Biryani
Biryani is more than a dish, it’s a celebration on a plate. This fragrant rice dish is layered with marinated meat (like chicken, lamb, or goat), caramelized onions, saffron-infused basmati rice, and an array of spices including cardamom, cloves, and star anise.
Traditionally slow-cooked in a sealed pot (known as dum), the flavours meld into a rich, aromatic experience. Often served with cooling raita, biryani is a must for anyone who loves bold yet balanced flavours.
Samosa
The ultimate Indian snack, samosas are golden, triangular pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, or sometimes minced meat. Crispy and flaky on the outside, warm and savoury on the inside, they’re usually enjoyed with tangy tamarind chutney or refreshing mint chutney.
Perfect as a starter or street-side snack, they’re one of India’s most universally loved bites.
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Masala Dosa
A South Indian classic, masala dosa is a giant, paper-thin crêpe made from a fermented rice and lentil batter. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s filled with a spiced potato mixture flavoured with mustard seeds, turmeric, curry leaves, and onions.
Served with coconut chutney and sambar (a tangy lentil-based stew), it’s a wholesome dish that’s light yet incredibly satisfying.
Dal Tadka
Lentils (or dal) are the backbone of Indian comfort food, and dal tadka is one of the most popular versions. Yellow lentils are simmered with tomatoes, onions, and turmeric until creamy.
The magic happens with the tadka (tempering): hot ghee is infused with garlic, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and poured over the dal right before serving. The sizzling sound and aroma add depth and drama to this humble yet delicious dish.
Tandoori Chicken
Smoky, juicy, and slightly charred, tandoori chicken is all about the marinade and the cooking style. Chicken is coated in yogurt mixed with ginger, garlic, chili, and garam masala, then roasted in a traditional clay oven (tandoor) at high heat.
The result is tender meat with a signature smoky flavour and a vibrant red colour, usually enjoyed with naan or mint chutney.
Palak Paneer
For vegetarians (and cheese lovers!), palak paneer is a go-to. Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes are simmered in a creamy spinach gravy seasoned with garlic, ginger, cumin, and garam masala.
The earthy flavour of spinach blends perfectly with the mild, soft paneer, making it a healthy yet indulgent dish, best enjoyed with roti or naan.
Pani Puri
Street food at its most fun! Pani puri (also called golgappa or puchka, depending on the region) is a crispy, hollow puri filled with spiced mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and onions, then dunked in tangy tamarind water spiced with mint and chili. You eat it in one bite, the crunch followed by a burst of spicy, sour, and sweet flavours is addictive. No Indian food journey is complete without this playful snack.
Why is Indian cuisine so famous around the world?
It’s all about balance. Indian food isn’t just “spicy”, it’s a careful layering of sweet, sour, tangy, and hot that turns every dish into a symphony of flavours.
But beyond taste, Indian food tells stories. Every region of India brings its own history and culture to the plate, from the royal Mughlai feasts of the north to the coconut-rich curries of the south. In Canada, chefs have carried these traditions across the world, mixing them with fresh, local ingredients to create meals that nourish both body and soul.
No wonder Indian food has become a beloved staple in Canadian cities from coast to coast.
Where to eat Indian food in Canada? Our favourite places
For a romantic date night
- Pukka (Toronto): a modern Indian bistro with chic cocktails and dishes like lamb lollipops and tandoori octopus.
- Vij’s (Vancouver): one of Canada’s most iconic Indian restaurants, known for its wine-marinated lamb popsicles and elegant atmosphere.
For a group celebration
- Bombay Palace (Toronto): famous for its buffets and wide variety of curries, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Tandoori Flame (Brampton): Canada’s largest Indian buffet, serving endless options from street food to tandoori grills.
For a casual lunch or dinner
- Guru (Edmonton): a cosy spot with comforting curries, biryanis, and samosas that never disappoint.
- Dosa Pointe (Jean-Talon Ouest): renowned for its outstanding dosas like Chettinad chicken keema and Hara Bhara lamb, all praised for authenticity and size.
For a trendy night out
- Banjara (Toronto): a lively restaurant popular with young crowds, serving bold flavours and street-food inspired plates.
- Indian Aroma (Vancouver): a stylish spot mixing modern cocktails with inventive takes on classic Indian dishes.
For a classic Indian experience
- The Host Fine Indian Cuisine (Toronto): known for its Mughlai specialties and polished dining atmosphere.
- Sula (Davie Street): the 2025 Gold winner for Best Indian Restaurant in Vancouver, bold, beautifully spiced dishes (like tamarind curry salmon) in a lush, garden-inspired setting.
Would you rather stay in? Book a private Indian chef to cook for you at home
Yes, Canada has amazing restaurants, but sometimes nothing beats enjoying a feast in your own dining room.
With a private chef, you can indulge in freshly prepared Indian dishes without leaving the house. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a festive family gathering, a chef can create a personalized menu full of your favourites.
