Northern Virginia gets a lot well-deserved credit for its Ethiopian and Korean cuisines. But did you know that the Indian community is the largest Asian-ancestry population in the state? Luckily for diners, that translates to a delightful selection of Indian restaurants. When you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, choose from one of these stunners, where the décor and plating are as impressive as the use of spices.
Bombay Velvet
DC denizens are abuzz about Tamashaa and its small plates, but diners have been enjoying New Delhi-bred restaurateur Rajiv Chopra’s innovations at this Reston restaurant for years. The creative cocktails, such as a lychee-and-rose-petal martini, get the star treatment in this plush dining room, but the large food menu attracts its own fan base. Whatever curry you choose, get it with garlic naan that’s dusted with black garlic. 12100 Sunset Hills Rd., Reston
Celebration by Rupa Vira
This woman-led restaurant has been among our 50 best restaurants since it debuted in 2020. Unusual takes on classic Indian chaat like pani puri are among the seasonal dishes that make each visit here novel. The restaurant’s brunch, featuring dishes like Eggs Bollywood, a spiced-up version of a Benedict, is a newer attraction. There are special menus for vegan, gluten-free, and Jain diners. 44260 Ice Rink Plz., Ste. 120, Ashburn
Indochen
Chinese food from India combines flavors from both traditions. And what’s better than one fancy Indo-Chinese restaurant in Alexandria? That would be two of them. Both branches of Indochen elevate takeout dishes to the level of delicious experience. Start with lamb dumplings in spicy tomato chutney, then gorge on a bowl of fried rice or chow mein, all gustatory miles away from the versions most Americans are used to taking home. 4906 Brenman Park Dr., Alexandria; 1615 King St., Alexandria
Jodhpur
Our region’s only South Indian thali restaurant is as visually striking as it is filling. Servers bestow guests with endless portions of stews, rice, bread, and even dessert. And every bite is vegetarian. But meat-lovers shouldn’t be swayed against a visit. The spice-filled dishes are eminently satisfying, including filling bites such as makhmali kebab, a tender paneer cutlet. 1114 Herndon Pkwy., Herndon
Kismet Modern Indian
Chef Ajay Kumar grinds spices daily for his big-flavored dishes. Standard plates like dal makhani and palak paneer hit differently thanks to the fresh ingredients. But not everything that shines in this bright, welcoming dining room is heavily spiced. The colorful olive naan packs a punch, as does the goat-cheese version of the flatbread. 111 N. Pitt St., Alexandria
Mirch Dhamaka
One of NoVA’s newest Indian restaurants features two dining rooms: one casual, and one with white tablecloths. On the fancy side, a mix of Northern and Southern Indian delicacies includes ones not typically seen in our region. Try the Chicken Majestic, a Hyderabadi starter that’s composed of fried chicken in a spiced yogurt sauce. 2443 Centreville Rd., Ste. G1, Herndon
Feature image of Celebration by Rupa Vira by Alice Levitt
For more food stories, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Food newsletter.
