29 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Indian in San Francisco
Master Critic Review
Royal Indian Cuisine on Fillmore
7.9
Neighborhood staple serving a broad North Indian menu with dependable tandoori, creamy curries, and late hours. Portions and pricing make it an easy weeknight choice near Japantown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer, Lamb Biryani
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Straightforward classics, late hours, and a full bar on Fillmore.
Who should go: Curry-and-naan regulars and casual groups
When to visit: Weeknights for quickest seating and takeout
What to order: Tikka masala; saag paneer; lamb biryani
Insider tip: Pair tandoori plates with garlic naan—fresh from the clay oven.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Fillmore and nearby side streets; can be tight after 7pm but garage options exist near Japantown.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—comfortable attire works fine, though locals often dress up slightly for group dinners.
Noise level: Moderate; lively at dinner but still manageable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating or immediate takeout service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – a large dedicated vegetarian section with paneer, lentil, and mixed-veg curries.
Vegan options: Limited but workable – several curries and vegetable dishes can be prepared vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – many rice-based and tandoori dishes are naturally gluten-free, though naan is not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual date or early relationship stage—relaxed setting and comforting food, but not fine-dining intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights; on weekends it’s best to call ahead or arrive before 7pm to avoid a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are accommodating, with mild-spice dishes and booster seats available; families often dine early evenings.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, filling curries and generous portions at fair prices—ideal for families and casual group dinners.
Skip if: You’re seeking Michelin-level plating or modern Indian fusion; this is more about comfort and consistency than innovation.
Hours
Monday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Tuesday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Wednesday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Thursday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Friday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Saturday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am
Sunday11am - 3pm, 4:30pm - 12am