ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Curry Heights
8.0
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Open since 2007, Curry Heights is a Brooklyn Heights standby serving a long menu of North Indian and Bengali staples, from smoky tandoori to rich gravies. Counter-style lunch service and sit-down dinners make it a flexible option for both quick workday meals and relaxed family spreads.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Biryani, Saag Paneer
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood favorite for classic curries and combos.
Who should go: Office workers and families craving hearty Indian staples.
When to visit: Lunch for fast combos; early dinner for calm.
What to order: Chicken tikka masala, lamb biryani, saag paneer.
Insider tip: Use lunch specials for maximum value and variety.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on nearby blocks; easier to find mid-day, difficult after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual — jeans, sweaters, and everyday workwear all fit in comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate — relaxed enough for conversation, but can get lively during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or under 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — a large portion of the menu is vegetarian-friendly with multiple paneer, lentil, and vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — several vegetable and lentil dishes can be made vegan on request, but clarify butter and cream usage.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many curries, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid naan and fried starters.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially if you want a low-pressure, comfortable setting with dependable food — it’s more cozy and casual than romantic, but easygoing for getting to know someone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weeknights and at lunch; weekends can fill up quickly but turnover is steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — mild curries, rice dishes, and friendly service make it suitable for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
Best For
Better for: Reliable classic Indian comfort food, fast lunch combos, and family-style group meals at a neighborhood-friendly price.
Consider Alternatives If: If you’re specifically seeking upscale, chef-driven Indian with a strong cocktail program or a more intimate date-night atmosphere.