0 Followers
Kesari Indian Cuisine
ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Kesari Indian Cuisine
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
A newer-feeling neighborhood Indian option where the safest path is sticking to straightforward classics and well-loved vegetarian staples. It’s best as a flexible local utility play: one chaat or snack, one curry, and one bread—done.
Must-Try Dishes:
Samosa chaat, Chana masala, Chicken tikka masala
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: A neighborhood Indian kitchen that works best for classic, no-drama orders.
Who should go: Locals who want simple Indian meals without fuss
When to visit: Weekday lunch for the quickest turnaround
What to order: Samosa chaat, chana masala, tikka masala
Insider tip: Start with one chaat, then choose one curry—keep it simple.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive in the evenings, easier midday.
Dress code: Casual and low-key — jeans, sweaters, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours, shorter earlier in the evening
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or very short wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several reliable vegetarian curries, dals, and chaat options
Vegan options: Limited — some vegetable and lentil dishes can work, but confirm preparation
Gluten-free options: Partial — many curries are naturally gluten-free; naan and fried items are not
Best For
Better for: Straightforward Indian classics, quick meals, and dependable vegetarian comfort without overthinking the order.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale plating, destination-level ambiance, or a special-occasion dining experience.