ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Masala King
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Masala King is a smaller Indian restaurant near 34th Street that mixes takeout-friendly combos with a simple sit-down space. Office workers and nearby residents rely on it for straightforward curries and biryanis that travel well and stay affordable.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Biryani, Garlic Naan
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: Casual Indian spot balancing delivery-friendly curries with dine-in seating.
Who should go: Budget-minded locals needing reliable curry near 34th.
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner for fastest turnaround.
What to order: Chicken tikka masala, vegetable biryani, garlic naan.
Insider tip: Order directly for better combo pricing than third-party apps.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive, especially after 6pm; nearby garages on 3rd and 2nd Ave are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, work attire, and everyday wear all fit in comfortably.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner hours, often shorter for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of the 12–1pm lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetable curries, biryani, and appetizer options.
Vegan options: Limited — some vegetable dishes can be made vegan on request, but confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free curries and rice dishes are available; naan and most breads are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a low-pressure casual meal than a romantic date — it’s comfortable and unfussy, but not especially atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, almost always — it’s primarily a walk-in and takeout-driven spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — mild curries, rice dishes, and a relaxed environment make it easy for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Indian takeout and simple sit-down meals near 34th Street without long waits.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale Indian dining, a date-night atmosphere, or regional specialty dishes.