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Best Indian in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Baazi
8.3
A modern, mood-forward Indian dining room that leans into richer gravies, polished plating, and a dinner-first rhythm. It shines when you order one signature biryani and one classic curry, then use naan to keep the meal cohesive instead of sprawling.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dum pukht lamb biryani, Butter chicken, Garlic naan
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A contemporary Indian room where biryani and classics feel restaurant-driven, not takeout-coded.
Who should go: Date nights and friends who want a polished Indian dinner
When to visit: Early dinner for calmer pacing and better tables
What to order: Lamb biryani, butter chicken, garlic naan
Insider tip: Keep it tight: one biryani, one curry, one naan beats over-ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and competitive after 6pm, rideshare is easier for dinner
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; jeans are fine but most diners look polished
Noise level: Moderate; lively energy but still easy to hold a conversation
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak date-night hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or short wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple well-executed vegetarian curries, apps, and sides
Vegan options: Limited but possible; a few vegetable-based dishes can be adapted if you ask
Gluten-free options: Partial – many curries are naturally gluten-free, but naan and cross-contact are considerations
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere-driven Indian dining with richer gravies, plating, and a night-out feel
Skip if: You want quick, casual Indian food or budget-friendly takeout classics