Search ‘best Indian food near me’ in Novato and you’ll find endless options, but few that truly deliver. That’s why we’ve scoured this Northern California town to bring you the definitive list of Indian restaurants that will satisfy any craving, from aromatic curries to sizzling tandoori.
Himalayan Kitchen
$ | (415) 526-3161 | WEBSITE
Himalayan Kitchen might feel like a predictable choice if you’re chasing the latest food trends, but Himalayan Kitchen is a reliable bet when you want hearty food that’s also genuinely delicious. They’ve become a staple in the Marin area by now, but we favor it especially after hiking—mainly because there’s plenty of free parking right out front for when you’re too tired to circle the block.
Taj Of Marin
$ | (415) 459-9555 | WEBSITE
This Novato Indian has gained a great reputation for good reason, and is a big two fingers to everyone who thinks you need to head to the city for phenomenal food. It’s perfect if your family is into all things curry and everything nice. The food here isn’t your standard buffet approach, it’s prices are very reasonable, and it’s got a really nice neighbourhood feel about it.
Even better is that it’s been part of the community for years so you can take the kids for a treat if you’re coming from out of town or, if you are from around here, you can stay local.
Little Goan Indian Cafe
$$ | (415) 878-0490 | WEBSITE
Your mum texted you yesterday and you forgot to reply. Shame on you. She’s now taken to calling you ‘the ghost’ and suggesting that this one ignored message proves you’re obsessed with that spicy food she keeps reading about online. Take her to cozy Novato spot Little Goan Indian Cafe, where the chicken tandoori and butter chicken with Naan bread will give you plenty of time to reconnect. The food here is truly delicious, and yes, also pretty reasonable.
The full meal will set you back around $40, but, hey, maybe next time you’ll text her back.
New Delhi Indian Cuisine
$ | (415) 295-7162 | WEBSITE
Restaurants can sometimes reflect the personalities of their diners, or vice versa. People who appreciate tradition and consistency gravitate towards places that have been perfecting their craft for decades. In restaurants that have been serving the same authentic dishes for over 40 years, you’ll find people who value that kind of culinary heritage. These are broad generalizations of course, but, by and large, they sort of stand up.
New Delhi Indian Cuisine is a restaurant with big, comforting Indian flavors. They’re satisfying but they’re balanced. If you’re the sort who appreciates phenomenal service, warm naan, and a chef who’s been called one of the best in the Bay Area, then this is your place.
Batika India Bistro
$$ | (415) 895-5757 | WEBSITE
If your mum had to pick a ‘specialist subject’ on Mastermind it would either be the best Indian restaurants in Marin, the perfect texture of naan, or realistically, the entire vegetarian tikka masala lunch special. Batika India Bistro is a wonderfully charming, welcoming Indian restaurant in Novato that’s full of beautiful plants, a lovely fountain, and peaceful patio seating. In the best possible way, dining here is like stepping into a tranquil garden.
From their fresh naan that’s crisped but fluffy, to their signature vegetarian tikka masala and saffron rice, the food here is excellent. You should also know that they do one of the best outdoor dining experiences in Marin.
Arti Natural Indian cafe
$$ | (415) 488-4700 | WEBSITE
We hope you’re past the point of your mum cooking every meal, but this place is for all the years she did. And even if she didn’t, she deserves it anyway. The Arti Natural Indian Cafe buzz has settled into a comfortable hum now, at least we think it has, and it’s a perfect spot to take your dear mother. For starters it’s got that incredible gluten-free naan. Also for starters, it’s got some sublime vegetable pakora.
It’s mostly generous, well-seasoned sharing dishes, so as long as your mum hasn’t got a problem with bold flavors, it’s happy days. The organic chicken is a highlight, and the mango lassi is simply divine. With its cozy interior and friendly staff, the atmosphere feels both casual and special—ideal for a birthday celebration or just a family meal where everyone leaves satisfied.
Lotus Cuisine of India
$$ | (415) 456-5808 | WEBSITE
Taking your family to an Indian buffet in Novato can be a bit of a gamble if they’re not adventurous eaters. Thankfully Lotus Cuisine of India carries its authentic, organic approach with genuine warmth. That’s to say, it’s as welcoming as it is delicious. The buffet here is a flavorful Indian medley – a familiar concept nowadays, but it’s reliable and tasty.
And even considering the fact that it’s located in a restaurant known for its beautiful interior and excellent service, it, mercifully, doesn’t feel pretentious.
Café Lotus
$$ | (415) 457-7836 | WEBSITE
The best places, I believe, to bring your family are those that make the entire experience seamless. Not that it’s difficult to enjoy time with loved ones (truly, family, that’s not what I’m suggesting), rather I mean that the best spots are those where you can relax without second-guessing your restaurant choice or the dishes or the atmosphere. Café Lotus excels at this. They simply understand how to get things right. It’s an Indian restaurant executed with a comfortable, approachable charm.
It’s vibrant but never overwhelming. The food is exceptional, yet everything feels wonderfully familiar. And the service is consistently warm and attentive.
Everest Indian Restaurant
$$ | (707) 781-9131 | WEBSITE
Oh Everest. Whatever magic they’re working in that kitchen, it’s arguably the only place that’s as comforting as your mum’s cooking after a long week. This Indian eatery in Novato is all about bold flavors, generous portions, complex curries, and eating garlic naan straight from the tandoor.
Basically, you bring your family here to show them a good meal – whether that’s for an equally hearty and vegan-friendly lunch or a dinner where far too much lamb korma and paneer curry are devoured, is up to you. Heads up, all this flavor makes Everest popular, so be sure to plan ahead.