ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Park Slope
Best Farm to Table Restaurants in Park Slope
Master Critic Review
Lore
8.5
Michelin Bib Gourmand–recognized Lore filters Indian flavors through a seasonal, contemporary lens, from fermented dosa to butterless butter chicken. Locals use it for date nights and small-group dinners where thoughtful service and a tight, constantly evolving menu reward repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butterless Butter Chicken, Fermented Dosa, Mushroom Uttapam
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Modern Indian-inflected cooking with Michelin-backed value and polish.
Who should go: Diners wanting inventive Indian flavors in a polished room.
When to visit: Early weeknights or Sunday prix fixe for best value.
What to order: Butterless butter chicken, fermented dosa, prix-fixe dessert.
Insider tip: Weeknight prix fixe is the easiest, most affordable entry point.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; competitive after 6pm on 5th Ave, with better luck on residential side streets within a 2–3 block radius.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—lively but controlled; normal conversation is comfortable at most two-tops.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation for small parties; longer for groups.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, with easy walk-in availability.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection, including multiple mains and starters built around seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Moderate—several dishes can be made vegan on request, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Good support; many dishes are naturally gluten-free and staff clearly notes safe options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the room is stylish without being formal, the noise stays gentle, and the menu encourages sharing without overwhelming newcomers to Indian flavors.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often on weeknights, yes; on weekends, small walk-in parties may snag bar seats or early tables, but prime hours typically require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy flavorful dishes; high chairs and dedicated kids’ items are limited, but staff is accommodating with milder preparations.
Best For
Better for: Inventive, seasonal Indian plates and a more polished date-night atmosphere than nearby casual curry houses.
Skip if: You want a large, traditional North Indian menu, big portions, or takeout-first convenience—other local spots are better suited for that.