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Benares Indian Restaurant
$$$ · Indian

45 Murray St, New York, NY 10007
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Indian in Tribeca

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Benares Indian Restaurant 8.7
Tribeca-Civic Center
Vibes: Group Dining Gatherings Business Lunch Power Players Comfort Food Classics Date Night Magic
Benares is a long-running Tribeca Indian restaurant where a broad regional menu, lunch prix fixe, and tandoori platters draw office regulars and destination diners alike. Since opening in 2012, it has become the area’s default sit-down Indian option, balancing classic dishes with a few more ambitious specials in a comfortable dining room.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken 65, Laal Maas (Rajasthani lamb curry), Saag Paneer with Garlic Naan
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 8.6 Consistency: 8.9 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 8.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: High-volume Tribeca Indian with a deep regional menu and reliable prix fixe lunches.
Who should go: Office groups, date-night couples, and Indian regulars.
When to visit: Weekday lunches or early weeknights for smoother service.
What to order: Chicken 65, Laal Maas, saag paneer with garlic naan.
Insider tip: Use the lunch prix fixe to sample an appetizer, curry, and bread at a softer price point.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in Tribeca; expect to use nearby paid garages within a few blocks.
Dress code: Smart casual — business-casual attire fits the room, but neat jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate — conversations are comfortable at most tables, though it can rise during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Often 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, especially for smaller parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — strong selection of vegetarian curries, dosas, and paneer dishes.
Vegan options: Yes — several vegan-friendly vegetable curries and lentil dishes; ask staff for guidance on clarified butter substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Many curries and tandoori dishes are naturally gluten-free; naan and breads are not — confirm with the server when needed.
Best For
Better for: Business lunches, group dinners, and diners who want a broad regional Indian menu with consistent execution and attentive service.
Skip if: You’re looking for ultra-casual counter service, hyper-spicy regional specialties only, or a quick in-and-out meal during peak dinner hours.