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Best Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Indian Restaurants in Little Italy

4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

Our Top Pick
The Momo World
Casual Himalayan spot where momos, biryani, and Indo-Himalayan street dishes anchor the menu.

Worthy Picks

Little Italy Indian
The Momo World brings Himalayan street food to Maxwell Street with a tight menu of momos, biryani, and noodle dishes that overlap Indian and Nepali flavors. Students and nearby workers stop in for quick dumpling plates, saucy C-momos, and casual counter-service meals.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken C-Momo, Butter Masala Momo, Kukhura Biryani
What makes it special: Casual Himalayan spot where momos, biryani, and Indo-Himalayan street dishes anchor the menu.
$ Little Italy Indian
Tuk Tuk Indian Street Food channels Indian roadside snacks into bowls, rolls, and chaat at student-friendly prices. UIC regulars stop in for dahi puri, stuffed parathas, and chai late into the night when they want something lighter and more snackable than a full curry spread.
Must-Try Dishes: Dahi Puri, Chicken Tikka Roll, Aloo Paneer Paratha
What makes it special: Street food–style chaat, rolls, and parathas served late at student-friendly prices.
$ Little Italy Indian
A no-frills Indo-Pak counter built for huge portions, fast pickup, and low-stakes repeatability—especially for UIC-area regulars. It’s at its best when you order one rice anchor and one paratha wrap, leaning into bold, saucy comfort over polished dining-room finesse.
Must-Try Dishes: Butter chicken paratha, Chicken biryani (with bone), Boneless chili chicken rice
What makes it special: Big-portion Indo-Pak comfort food at unusually low prices, fast.
$ Little Italy Indian
Curry On Fire is a casual Taylor Street counter that leans into delivery-friendly curries, biryani, and Indo-Chinese dishes. Portions run generous and spice levels are adjustable, making it a practical choice when you want straightforward, filling Indian food at home or in a dorm.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken 65, Chicken Tikka Masala, Butter Paneer Masala
What makes it special: Delivery-focused Indian spot with a wide curry list and dialed-in spice options.