ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Harlem
Master Critic Review
Indian Summer Harlem
8.2
Indian Summer Harlem is a Central Harlem dining room for tandoori plates, biryanis, and an unusually deep duck section, plus a small sidewalk patio along Malcolm X Boulevard. Locals use it for leisurely dinners when they want Northern Indian standards with a few Goan-leaning duck specials and solid vegetarian coverage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Indian Summer Special Battakh (crispy duck with eggplant and mushrooms), Chicken Biryani, Paneer Makhani
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A Harlem Indian kitchen known for duck-focused specials, full tandoori lineup, and a small sidewalk patio.
Who should go: Couples and small groups wanting sit-down North Indian in Harlem.
When to visit: Evenings from 6–9 pm for a full menu and buzz.
What to order: Veg samosas, Indian Summer Special Battakh, Chicken Biryani.
Insider tip: Use the duck section as a shared centerpiece and fill the table out with one biryani and a vegetarian curry instead of over-ordering mains.