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Tulsi Indian Eatery - DTLA
Master Critic Review
Tulsi Indian Eatery - DTLA
8.0
A casual, mostly vegetarian Indian eatery in the Historic Core that mixes street-food energy with a broad regional menu. Dosas, chaat-style bites, and rotating curries keep things lively, with flavors that skew bright and snackable rather than heavy. Best for an affordable, quick sit-down or takeout run when you want variety without formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Masala dosa, Two-curry combo, Vada pav
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Vegetarian-leaning regional Indian street-food favorites in a casual DTLA format.
Who should go: Value hunters, vegetarians, and anyone craving variety fast.
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early evening for easy seating.
What to order: Masala dosa, curry combo, vada pav.
Insider tip: Ask what’s freshest that day and build a snack-plus-curry spread.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the main option; meters are usually available on weekdays before the dinner rush. Nearby paid lots along Spring and Main offer predictable access if you're coming during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable. Most diners come in everyday wear—athleisure, jeans, or office-casual lunch outfits.
Noise level: Moderate. You can hold a conversation without raising your voice, though the room gets livelier during lunch surges.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on foot traffic; turnover stays fairly quick.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even during the busiest Downtown office hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Extensive. Most of the menu is naturally vegetarian, including dosas, curries, and chaat.
Vegan options: Strong options—several curries, chaat items, and dosa fillings are vegan or can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Multiple gluten-free-friendly choices including dosas (rice/lentil batter), many curries, and sides; ask staff to confirm sauces and cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual meet-up than a romantic first impression. It works if you want something inexpensive, flavorful, and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Reservations aren’t needed; tables turn quickly, and walk-ins are the norm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The bright, casual setup works well for families, and the menu has mild options for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable Indian street-food-style plates with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices—ideal for variety-heavy meals and quick bites.
Skip if: You want a more traditional, slower-paced Indian dining experience, tableside service, or richer, heavier curries that lean fine-dining.