ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Sapphire Cuisines of India
7.7
Sapphire Cuisines delivers a broad menu of Indian staples with generous portions and approachable flavors, making it a solid choice for casual dining and group meals on the Upper West Side. It’s a neighborhood standby for classic curries and biryanis.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Biryani, Saag Paneer
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Hearty portions of familiar Indian favorites.
Who should go: Groups and families seeking casual Indian.
When to visit: Weekend dinner or group gatherings.
What to order: Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Biryani, Saag Paneer.
Insider tip: Ideal for sharing — order a few mains and sides.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be challenging during peak hours. Valet service not offered.
Dress code: Casual, no strict dress code but smart casual recommended for a more comfortable dining experience.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easy to follow, though it can get louder during group dining hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - there is a dedicated section for vegetarian options on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan-friendly dishes available.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options available, though they may not be completely separate from other dishes.
Best For
Better for: Great for casual group dining or family meals due to its hearty portions and approachable flavors.
Skip if: If you're looking for a more refined or intimate dining experience, this may not be the best choice.