Are you craving a delectable selection of spicy and flavorsome dishes? Look no further! These local restaurants in Iowa City offer an extensive lunch buffet and authentic Indian dinner preparations that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Masala
Located at 9 S Dubuque St, Iowa City, Masala is your go-to destination for a quick yet fulfilling lunch. Don’t be fooled by its cozy and unassuming appearance—this hole-in-the-wall eatery is always bustling with a diverse range of patrons, including downtown office workers and university students in the know.
The lunch buffet at Masala is no ordinary affair; it’s a feast that caters to all taste buds. Indulge in delights like navratan korma, chicken tikka masala, and refreshing mango lassi. Feel free to go back for seconds or thirds, but make sure not to let your eyes grow bigger than your stomach. Masala is committed to reducing food waste, so it’s best to take only what you can enjoy. For a pleasant dinner experience in the heart of downtown Iowa City, take your time, order a few dishes to share, and wash it all down with a refreshing Kingfisher Lager.
India Cafe
Situated at 227 E Washington St, Iowa City, India Cafe is renowned for its ability to bring the heat. With its origins in Fairfield, Iowa, this restaurant has been a local favorite since 1994. What sets India Cafe apart is its mastery of perfectly layered and nuanced spicing. Instead of the usual mild/medium/spicy options, they have a 1-10 scale of spiciness, ensuring consistent heat levels with every order. If you find yourself feeling a little too adventurous with your spice selection, cool down with a mango shake. The combination of dairy and the natural sweetness of the fruit will balance out the heat perfectly.
Haveli
Prepare to be amazed by Haveli’s extensive menu, boasting over 100 options that cater to every palate. From 15 variations of naan, chapathi, and roti to an array of delectable dishes, this place has it all. If making a choice feels overwhelming, fear not—simply order the thali, available in vegetarian or non-vegetarian options. This traditional Indian meal showcases all the classics, including samosa, pakora, dal, paneer, tikka, and kheer. Served on a silver platter with multiple dishes and bowls, it’s an indulgent experience you won’t forget.
Aside from the mouthwatering food and the comforting warmth of the chai tea, Haveli Indian offers an additional visual treat—the constant loop of Bollywood music videos. Enjoy the elegantly spiced saag paneer while being visually entertained by the elaborately choreographed dance sequences. It’s truly a match made in heaven.
Exotic India
Nestled next to a large Mexican restaurant at 102 B 2nd Ave, Coralville, Exotic India may appear small in comparison, but it packs an authentic Indian culinary experience. With its friendly service and cozy ambiance, this family-run establishment won’t disappoint.
The lunch buffet always offers piping hot dishes that are replenished regularly by attentive servers. The extensive menu covers all the bases, ensuring a flavorful dining experience for every customer. Don’t miss out on the bengan bertha, a roasted eggplant dish with onions, tomatoes, green peas, and delicate spices. And for those days when staying in sounds better, Exotic India even offers delivery service.
Taj Mahal Cuisine of India
Located at 3939 Center Point Rd NE, Cedar Rapids, Taj Mahal Cuisine of India provides both a cozy environment and a diverse menu. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of lamb, or a chicken enthusiast, you’ll find a range of options roasted in a traditional tandoor oven or steeped in rich, spicy curries. But the menu doesn’t stop there—it also caters to vegetarians with enticing vegetable curries like Bahar-E-Sabaz. And don’t forget to end your meal with some mouth-watering mithai. If you’re feeling inspired to recreate the experience at home, Taj Mahal has a grocery store right next door, stocked with imported ingredients to help you master Indian cuisine in your own kitchen.
Taste of India
Situated at 1060 Old Marion Rd NE Unit D, Cedar Rapids, Taste of India may be located in an unassuming strip mall, but don’t let that fool you. The spacious interior provides ample seating for both lunchtime rushes and busy dinner hours. When you visit for the lunch buffet, you’ll be treated to a rotating assortment of dishes. And with a variety of grain options available, you can customize your plate to your heart’s content. Although the buffet may not be as extensive as others in the area, the well-spiced food strikes the perfect balance between vegetarian and meat options. Don’t miss out on the pakoras—they are perfectly sized for easy eating and free from excess grease.
For a truly memorable dining experience, explore the culinary wonders of these Indian restaurants in Iowa City. Each establishment offers its own unique flavors and ambiance, ensuring a delightful journey into the world of Indian cuisine.
