India is a paradise for food lovers, but ordering food here can be a challenge if you’re unfamiliar with its diverse cuisine. If you’re an expat navigating the world of Indian food, here’s everything you need to know to order like a pro.
A Taste of India's Regional Delights
Indian cuisine is as diverse as the country itself. In the north, you’ll find rich, creamy curries like Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani , often enjoyed with freshly baked naan, roti or paratha. If you move south, rice-based dishes dominate the menu, with flavorful delights like Dosa, Idli, and Hyderabadi Biryani, often paired with tangy sambars and coconut chutneys.
Head east, and you’ll discover a love for mustard-flavored fish curries, soft steamed momos, and some of India’s best sweets like Rasgulla and Sandesh. Meanwhile, the western states bring a fusion of flavors, from the fiery Misal Pav of Maharashtra to the coconut-infused seafood of Goa and the sweet-savory vegetarian delicacies of Gujarat.
Each region has its own unique identity, but one thing remains constant—food in India is more than just sustenance; it’s a cultural experience.
Understanding Indian Food Terms
When browsing a menu, certain words might leave you puzzled. If you see the word “Masala“, don’t assume it means spicy—it simply refers to a blend of spices. “Tandoori” means the dish is cooked in a clay oven, giving it a smoky flavor, while “Curry” is a broad term used for dishes with a spiced gravy.
If you’re looking for variety, a “Thali” is your best bet—this traditional Indian platter comes with a mix of curries, vegetables, rice, and bread, giving you a taste of everything on one plate. Street food lovers must try “Chaat“, a category of crispy, tangy, and spicy snacks that are bursting with flavor.
How to Customize Spice Levels
Indian food can range from mild to super spicy! Here’s how to tell the waiter your preference:
● Mild Spice: “Kam Mirchi” (कम मिर्ची )
● Medium Spice: “Thodi Mirchi” (थोड़ी मिर्ची )
● Extra Spicy: “Zyada mirchi” (ज्यादा मिर्ची )
For expats, the best way to embrace India is through its food. Try local dishes, explore different spice levels, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. With every meal, you’ll discover a new favorite, and soon, ordering food in India will feel as natural as anywhere else in the world.
So, what’s the first Indian dish you’re excited to try?
Our Recommendations
North Indian Cuisine (Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh)
– Famous for :
Rich Curries, Tandoori Dishes, Buttery Breads
– Must-Try Dishes :
Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Rogan Josh,
Aloo Paratha
– Bread Over Rice :
Naan, Roti, Paratha, Kulcha
South Indian Cuisine (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh)
– Famous for:
Rice-based dishes, coconut flavors, tangy sambars
– Must-Try Dishes :
Dosa, Idli, Vada, Hyderabadi Biryani, Appam
East Indian Cuisine (West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Bihar)
– Famous for:
Mustard-flavored fish, sweets, rice-heavy meals
– Must-Try Dishes:
Macher Jhol (fish curry), Pakhala (fermented rice) , Momo & Sandesh (sweet)
– Mild & Comforting:
Less spice, more mustard and yogurt- based dishes
West Indian Cuisine (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Rajasthan)
– Famous for:
Sweet-spicy mix, coconut-based curries, seafood
– Must-Try Dishes:
Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Goan Fish Curry, Dal Baati Churma
– Mild & Comforting:
Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Goan Fish Curry, Dal Baati Churma
– Vegetarian Heaven:
Gujarat has lots of sweet-savory veg dishes!
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