Best Solo Dining Sanctuaries Indian Restaurants in University Village
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Kati Roll Company
High-volume kati-roll pioneer turning out Kolkata-inspired wraps deep into the night.
Notable Picks
8.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
This MacDougal Street landmark helped popularize Kolkata-style kati rolls in NYC, serving griddled parathas stuffed with spiced meats, paneer, and eggs late into the night. The space is tiny and rough-around-the-edges, but the combination of speed, price, and flavor keeps lines steady years into its run.
Must-Try Dishes:
Achari Paneer Roll, Chicken Tikka Roll, Unda Roll
What makes it special: High-volume kati-roll pioneer turning out Kolkata-inspired wraps deep into the night.
#2
Ananda
8.3
Ananda is a vegetarian, largely kosher Indian restaurant just south of Washington Square, known for giant dosas, thali-style spreads, and a calm dining room with soft music. It draws both neighborhood regulars and vegetarians from farther afield for South Indian–leaning plates and flexible vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Masala dosa, Chole bhature, Idli with sambar
What makes it special: Vegetarian, kosher-friendly Indian with serious dosas and homestyle curries near NYU.
#3
Mint Masala
8.2
Just off Washington Square Park, Mint Masala is a narrow, always-busy spot for classic North Indian and Pakistani dishes served with little fuss and lots of spice. It’s the move when you want reliable curries, tandoor staples, and naan after a night in the Village.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken tikka masala, Saag paneer, Garlic naan
What makes it special: Long-running Village staple for familiar, well-seasoned North Indian curries near NYU.