Indian Food in Greater Milwaukee: A Complete Guide

Greater Milwaukee offers Indian restaurants spanning everything from upscale contemporary dining to quick-serve street food counters, with options scattered across the metro from Grafton to Racine. For families seeking to explore Indian cuisine, the region provides exceptional variety—whether you're craving a leisurely weekend buffet, seeking vegetarian-friendly options, or introducing adventurous little eaters to new flavors.

This guide organizes restaurants geographically to help you find great Indian food near home or plan a special dining adventure worth the drive. Each listing includes the practical details families need: addresses, hours, price ranges, kid-friendly features, and insider tips to make your visit successful.

Milwaukee

The city of Milwaukee offers the most diverse selection of Indian restaurants, from award-winning establishments to hidden gems. Families living in or visiting downtown, the East Side, or Bay View have excellent options within minutes.

Maharaja: the gold standard for traditional Indian

For 19 consecutive years, Maharaja has won "Best of Milwaukee" honors, making it the region's most celebrated Indian restaurant. Located on the East Side's Farwell Avenue, this establishment has earned its reputation through consistent quality and an exceptional lunch buffet.

Address: 1550 North Farwell Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 276-2250
Website: maharajarestaurants.com
Hours: Wednesday–Monday for lunch and dinner; closed Tuesday
Price range: $$ (buffet approximately $13–15 per person)

The lunch buffet is ideal for families—children can sample multiple dishes without committing to full portions, and the rotating selection means repeat visits feel fresh. Complimentary parking across the street at 1569 N Farwell Avenue eliminates downtown parking stress. The restaurant also offers banquet facilities and full catering services for family celebrations.

Family tip: Arrive early for the buffet when dishes are freshest. The traditional North Indian menu features approachable favorites like butter chicken and tandoori specialties that appeal to Indian food newcomers.

Saffron Modern Indian Dining: upscale celebration dining

When you're marking a special family occasion—a birthday, graduation, or simply want to show kids what fine dining looks like—Saffron in the Historic Third Ward delivers a contemporary Indian experience.

Address: 223 N Water Street, Suite 100, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 539-4980
Website: saffronmke.com
Hours: Lunch Monday–Saturday 11:30am–3pm; Sunday brunch 11am–3pm; Dinner Sunday–Thursday 5pm–9:30pm, Friday–Saturday 5pm–10pm
Price range: $$$ (entrees $18–25+)

The modern interpretations of classic dishes and Indian-inspired craft cocktails (try the Mumbai Sour with turmeric) elevate the experience. Signature dishes include tandoori salmon, butter chicken, and the Pani Puri sampler for the table. The Sunday brunch provides a slightly more relaxed atmosphere for families with younger children.

Reservation tip: Book through OpenTable for busy nights. Last seating is 45 minutes before closing.

Himalayan Yak: Nepali-Indian fusion with outstanding daily buffet

This Bay View newcomer (opened October 2024) offers something unique in Milwaukee: authentic Nepali cuisine alongside Indian favorites. The combination introduces families to momos (Nepali dumplings), thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and other distinctive dishes they won't find elsewhere.

Address: 2321 S Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207
Phone: (414) 312-7223
Website: ourhimalayanyak.com
Hours: Daily 11am–10pm
Price range: $$ (entrees $13–17; buffet approximately $13 weekdays, $15 weekends)

The daily lunch buffet (11am–2:30pm) features clearly labeled dishes indicating gluten and dairy content—a godsend for families managing allergies. The weekend buffet adds $2 but includes goat curry and goat bhuna that adventurous eaters rave about. Complimentary chai accompanies meals, and the traditional Nepali décor (prayer flags, singing bowls) creates conversation starters for curious kids.

Must-order: The chili momos with Sichuan pepper are exceptional. Steam-style momos work better for younger children, while adults can handle the heat of chili-style preparations.

Honest Milwaukee: the vegetarian street food destination

For families who are vegetarian, vegan, or simply want to try authentic South Indian street food, Honest Milwaukee serves an entirely plant-based menu featuring dosas, chaats, and Mumbai-style snacks.

Address: 3400 S 27th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Phone: (414) 212-8647
Website: honestmilwaukeewi.com
Hours: Daily 11am–10pm
Price range: $ to $$ (budget-friendly)

The dosas are enormous—larger than at most restaurants—and come in varieties from classic masala to dabang (spicy). Mumbai street food favorites include vada pav (potato fritters in bread), pani puri, and bhel. The Indo-Chinese section offers dishes like triple schezwan and Chinese bhel that bridge Asian cuisines in kid-pleasing ways.

Family tip: This is an outstanding option for introducing children to Indian food in a casual atmosphere. Staff happily explains unfamiliar dishes and accommodates spice-level requests.

Ruta's Fresh Indian Fare: healthy fast-casual with a twist

Chef Ruta Kahate—who operated seven restaurants in India and authored three cookbooks—brings her Ayurvedic-inspired approach to Walker's Point as well as Shorewood’s Farmers Market. The fast-casual format works brilliantly for families: quick service, customizable bowls, and the famous NaanMelts (Indian grilled sandwiches invented here).

Address: 207 W Freshwater Way, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 509-6802
Website: rutasmke.com
Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11am–2pm for dine-in; pickup/delivery also 4:30pm–7:30pm; closed weekends
Price range: $ (bowls and sandwiches $12–16)

Build-your-own bowls let picky eaters choose rice, quinoa, or greens as a base, then add proteins and sauces to their comfort level. NaanMelt options range from the Goa Pork Melt to The Yogi (vegetarian). The Chai Bar offers masala, ginger, and cardamom variations that families can share.

Take-home option: Frozen curry sauces and meal kits let you recreate Ruta's flavors at home. The restaurant also appears at Shorewood, Southshore, and Tosa farmers markets seasonally.

Shah Jee's: the legendary lunch counter

This basement counter-service spot has served Pakistani comfort food downtown since 1995 and was featured on TV's "Man Finds Food." It's unconventional—takeout only, cash preferred, limited hours—but the food justifies the quirks.

Address: 770 N Jefferson Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (basement level)
Phone: (414) 271-5354
Hours: Monday–Friday 11am–2:30pm ONLY; closed weekends
Price range: $ (complete meal $8–10)

Daily specials rotate: Tuesday brings chana masala with chicken masala and basmati rice; Thursday features daal masoor. The secret green chutney is the "magic sauce" regulars request. For families introducing kids to Indian food, the mild-spiced dishes work well—add chutney for adults who want heat.

Insider strategy: Arrive before 11:30am or after 12:30pm to avoid the lunch rush line. Food runs out by 1pm, so early arrival ensures full selection.

Bollywood Grill: dinner and a show (with groceries)

The white-tablecloth setting at Bollywood Grill pairs elegance with entertainment—Bollywood movies play on a projection screen during meals. The Jackson Street location also houses an on-site Indian grocery store, making it easy to take home ingredients.

Address: 1038 N Jackson Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 271-8200
Website: bollywoodgrill.us
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday lunch and dinner; closed Monday
Price range: $$ to $$$

The tandoori chicken receives consistent praise, as do the Bollywood Naan (signature) and falooda kulfi (dessert with rice noodles). Staff patiently guides newcomers through the menu, making it excellent for families new to Indian cuisine. Private party and banquet facilities accommodate larger family gatherings.

Cafe India: two locations, full bar, events welcome

With locations in both Walker's Point and Bay View, Cafe India offers accessibility across Milwaukee's south side. Both feature full bars and the Bay View location includes a private event hall.

Walker's Point: 605 S 1st Street; (414) 224-5444; cafeindiamilwaukee.com
Bay View: 2201 S Kinnickinnic Avenue; (414) 837-6121; cafeindiamke.com
Price range: $$ (entrees $12–18)

Signature dishes include butter chicken, coconut curry (vegetarian and highly praised), and various biryanis. The kitchens accommodate dietary restrictions and spice preferences. Lunch buffet availability varies by location—call ahead to confirm.

The North Shore and northern suburbs have limited but worthwhile options

Families in Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Mequon, and surrounding communities will find that dedicated Indian restaurants are scarce locally—but two standout options exist nearby in Glendale and Grafton, and Milwaukee restaurants deliver throughout the area.

Everest Cafe: Glendale's Nepalese-Indian gem

Located near Bayshore Mall inside Royal Garden restaurant, Everest Cafe serves Nepalese and North Indian cuisine with recipes passed down through generations from Western Nepal.

Address: 206 W Silver Spring Drive, Glendale, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 906-0998
Website: everestcafetogo.com
Hours: Monday–Thursday 11am–8:30pm; Friday–Saturday 11am–9pm; Sunday noon–8:30pm
Price range: $ (appetizers $4.95–5.95; momos $10.95 for 8 pieces; entrees $14.95–17.95)

Momos steal the show—these Nepalese dumplings come with chicken, vegetable, or pork fillings and spicy chili sauce. Traditional combo plates include rice, daal, and tarkari for an authentic experience. The calm atmosphere with Zen music suits families, and portions run large (expect leftovers).

Practical detail: Because it operates inside Royal Garden, you can order from both menus—helpful when family members have different cravings. Plenty of parking exists near Kohl's and Target.

Delivery coverage: Delivers to Glendale, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Shorewood, and surrounding North Shore communities.

Aathira Foods: South Indian specialty in Grafton

This Ozaukee County gem combines an Indian grocery store with made-to-order South Indian food. Run by Dr. Renga Thavasi and his wife Rajeswari, it's the go-to for traditional South Indian dishes north of Milwaukee.

Address: 1590 Harris Drive, Grafton, WI 53024
Phone: (262) 235-1973
Website: aathirafoodsusa.com
Hours: Tuesday 10:30am–7pm; Wednesday–Monday 10am–8:30pm
Price range: $ (budget-friendly takeout)

The butter chicken and garlic naan receive high marks, but South Indian vegetarian curries are the specialty. Homemade dosa batter is available for purchase if you want to make dosas at home. The owners act as "tour guides," helping customers unfamiliar with Indian cuisine navigate the options—a perfect introduction for families.

Note: This is primarily takeout and grocery; there's no full dine-in service. DoorDash delivery is available.

Western suburbs offer the metro's deepest concentration outside Milwaukee

Brookfield, Wauwatosa, and Waukesha County contain eight Indian restaurants ranging from budget-friendly street food to elegant dining. For families in the western suburbs, these represent the closest and most convenient options.

India Garden: Wauwatosa's elegant neighborhood favorite

Operated by former Maharaja owners, India Garden brings upscale Indian dining to Wauwatosa with seven-day lunch buffet service and a refined atmosphere featuring cloth tablecloths and a cozy fireplace.

Address: 2930 N 117th Street, Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Phone: (414) 235-9220
Website: indiagardenwauwatosa.net
Hours: Daily lunch buffet and dinner service
Price range: $$

The Peshwari naan is "habit-forming" according to regulars, and the chicken tikka masala and rich mango lassi receive consistent praise. Free delivery extends the reach to families who prefer staying home. The uncrowded seating makes this a comfortable option for families with younger children who need space.

Hidden gem status: Despite its excellence, India Garden remains somewhat under-the-radar—arriving often means immediate seating even on busy nights.

HAD's Indian Cuisine: Brookfield's daily buffet champion

For families who love the buffet experience, HAD's offers an all-you-can-eat lunch spread seven days a week alongside a full dinner menu.

Address: 2345 N 124th Street, Brookfield, WI 53005 (next to Kohl's)
Phone: (262) 618-2248
Website: hadsindiancuisine.com
Hours: Daily lunch buffet 11:30am–3pm; dinner 5pm–10pm
Price range: $$ (lunch buffet approximately $14)

The chef-owner brings 18 years of cooking experience (six years in Boston, twelve in Milwaukee) to every dish. Standouts include butter chicken, coconut chicken curry, and kadhi pakora. Vegan and gluten-free options are clearly available. The atmosphere welcomes children, with high chairs available and good music setting a comfortable tone.

Hyderabad House: authentic Hyderabadi biryani

Part of a national franchise with 50+ locations across North America and Europe, Hyderabad House specializes in the distinctive cuisine of Hyderabad, India—particularly its legendary biryanis.

Address: 19035 W Bluemound Road, Brookfield, WI 53045
Phone: (262) 299-0000
Website: hhmilwaukee.com
Hours: Monday–Thursday 11am–2:30pm and 5pm–9:30pm; Friday–Saturday extended to 10pm; weekend mornings may include breakfast service
Price range: $$

The biryanis are "next level"—choose from chicken, mutton, fish, or vegetable versions, each served with raita and salan. The restaurant also excels at tandoori preparations and Indo-Chinese dishes. Wheelchair accessibility makes it welcoming for all family members.

Taste of India: Brookfield's traditional choice

A reliable option for classic North Indian cuisine, Taste of India has built a loyal following in Brookfield with aromatic biryanis, creamy curries, and tandoori kebabs.

Address: 17115 W Bluemound Road, Suite D1, Brookfield, WI 53005
Phone: (262) 796-8200
Website: tasteofindiabrookfield.com
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 11:30am–3pm and 4:30pm–9:30pm; closed Monday
Price range: $$ to $$$ (entrees $11–25)

The naan bread consistently earns praise for its soft, fluffy texture. Full catering services accommodate family events with customizable menus. The knowledgeable staff guides newcomers through the menu—helpful for families with children trying Indian food for the first time.

Indian Village Restaurant & Bar: Waukesha's full-service destination

With a full bar featuring hard-to-find Indian beers and whiskeys, patio seating, and even a drive-thru window, Indian Village in Waukesha offers versatility that families appreciate.

Address: 1345 South West Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186
Phone: (262) 232-8119
Website: waukesha.indianvillagegreenfield.com
Hours: Daily 11am–10pm
Price range: $$

The menu spans North Indian classics, Indo-Chinese favorites like gobi manchurian and hakka noodles, and an impressive bread selection (garlic naan, Kashmiri naan, paneer kulcha). The beautifully redecorated space accommodates large groups and celebrations, with private event hosting available.

Family convenience: The drive-thru window is perfect for pickup when you have kids in the car.

Tandoor Restaurant: West Allis BYOB gem

The West Allis location of Tandoor specializes in dishes from its namesake clay oven, and the BYOB policy lets adults pair their meal with whatever beverages they prefer.

Address: 1117 S 108th Street, Milwaukee (West Allis), WI 53214
Phone: (414) 777-1600
Website: tandoorrestaurantmilwaukee.com
Hours: Full menu 11am–2:45pm and 4:30pm–8:30pm; Monday lunch buffet
Price range: $$ (under $30 per person)

The lamb mango and saag chicken showcase the kitchen's skill with complex flavors. A family-owned feel pervades the spacious dining room that accommodates large parties. Small parking lot in rear; street parking also available.

Mantra Indian Bistro: Lake Country's award-winner

Rated #1 of 80 restaurants in Oconomowoc on TripAdvisor, Mantra brings multi-regional Indian cuisine to Lake Country with dishes representing six different regions of India.

Address: 511 E Wisconsin Avenue, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Phone: (262) 567-5740
Website: mantraindianbistrowi.com
Hours: Monday, Wednesday–Sunday 11am–2:30pm and 4:30pm–8pm (Friday–Saturday until 9pm); closed Tuesday
Price range: $$

Staff happily coaches first-timers on what to try, and the extensive vegetarian options accommodate plant-based families. One reviewer noted their "8-year-old loves the chicken tikka masala"—a testament to the family-friendly atmosphere and approachable preparations.

Shri Foods: relocating to Pewaukee

This beloved South Indian street food counter is moving from Brookfield Square Mall to a new Pewaukee location near Pick 'n Save on Capitol Drive. Watch for the opening announcement.

The menu featured masala dosa (their most popular item), pani puri, chole bhature, and idli with sambar at very affordable prices. As an Asian-owned, women-owned business serving halal chicken alongside extensive vegetarian options, Shri Foods filled a unique niche—expect similar offerings at the new location.

Southern suburbs provide excellent options from Oak Creek to Racine

Families south of Milwaukee proper have access to five solid Indian restaurants plus grocery stores with prepared foods—a surprisingly strong showing for the area.

Indian Village Restaurant & Bar: Greenfield's Gujarati specialist

This Greenfield location (sister to the Waukesha restaurant) stands out for offering authentic Gujarati cuisine—a West Indian regional specialty rarely found in Wisconsin.

Address: 7640 W Forest Home Avenue, Greenfield, WI 53220
Phone: (414) 585-9777
Website: indianvillagegreenfield.com
Hours: Daily 11am–10pm
Price range: $$ (Gujarati thali $25.99; most entrees $14–16)

The Gujarati Thali is a must-try: a traditional vegetarian feast plate showcasing the flavors of Gujarat. The family-owned operation reflects authentic home cooking—the wife is Punjabi, the mother-in-law handles South Indian dishes, creating a menu spanning India's regional diversity. The full bar, patio seating, and large parking lot make this excellent for family gatherings.

Insider tip: Mention if it's your first visit—the owner often visits tables to welcome guests and make recommendations. Request your preferred spice level on a 1–10 scale.

Indian Delight: Oak Creek's pure vegetarian haven

For vegetarian families or those wanting to explore plant-based Indian cuisine, Indian Delight offers a 100% vegetarian menu with an excellent daily buffet.

Address: 7864 S Howell Avenue, Oak Creek, WI 53154
Phone: (414) 301-5091
Website: indiandelightoakcreek.com
Hours: Daily 10am–10pm
Price range: $ (buffet approximately $13–15)

The rotating buffet always features fresh preparations, from paneer butter masala to sarson ka saag. House-made sweets and snacks are available from the display case. Located in the same building as India Food Mart, you can shop for groceries and ingredients after your meal.

Family bonus: The buffet format lets kids try multiple dishes without pressure. Staff adjusts spice levels to preference—helpful for younger palates.

India Palace: Franklin's traditional anchor

A cornerstone of the Franklin community, India Palace has built loyalty through consistent traditional North Indian cooking and a valued lunch buffet.

Address: 7107 S 76th Street, Franklin, WI 53132
Phone: (414) 425-2000
Website: indiapalacemilwaukee.com
Hours: Lunch buffet 11am–2:30pm; dinner 5pm–9:30pm daily
Price range: $$ (entrees $12–18)

The butter chicken and lamb vindaloo showcase the kitchen's mastery of classic preparations. Staff accommodates dietary needs and spice preferences readily. The chef trained under a mentor from India for six months—the authentic technique shows.

Strategy: Arrive when the lunch buffet opens for the freshest selection.

Taj Mahal: Hales Corners' 16-year veteran

With 16 years in business, Taj Mahal has earned its reputation through longevity and consistency. Multiple reviewers call it "the best Indian restaurant in the Milwaukee area."

Address: 5114 S 108th Street #1329, Hales Corners, WI 53130
Phone: (414) 427-5900 (reservations: 414-529-1111)
Website: tajmahalrestaurantwi.com
Hours: Daily lunch buffet 11am–2:30pm; dinner 4pm–9pm
Price range: $$

The lunch buffet delivers exceptional value—reviewers describe it as "the biggest bang for your buck" in the area. The welcoming staff readily explains dishes to Indian food newcomers. Free parking lot eliminates hassle.

Chit Chaat: Racine's street food café

Worth the drive for families seeking something different, this Racine café specializes in Indian and Pakistani street food with outstanding chai.

Address: 550 State Street, Racine, WI 53402
Phone: (262) 800-1079
Website: chitchaatracine.com
Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11am–2pm and 4:30pm–8pm; closed Monday
Price range: $ to $$

The house chai is legendary—don't miss it. Weekend specials sometimes include lamb and goat dishes. The charming, colorful interior and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for families exploring street food traditions.

Practical planning tips for families

Navigating spice levels: Nearly every restaurant will adjust heat to your preference. Ask for "mild" or "no spice" for young children, then add heat at the table with chutneys or ask for dishes to be made spicier for adults. South Indian restaurants tend toward milder flavors; Punjabi and Hyderabadi cuisines bring more heat.

Best buffet strategy: Weekday lunch buffets are typically less crowded and offer fresher-seeming food as dishes turn over regularly. Arrive when the buffet opens (usually 11:30am) for peak selection. Most buffets run $13–16 per person.

Vegetarian-friendly standouts: For fully vegetarian dining, Indian Delight (Oak Creek) and Honest Milwaukee serve exclusively plant-based menus. Every restaurant on this list offers substantial vegetarian options—Indian cuisine is naturally vegetarian-friendly.

Best for Indian food newcomers: Maharaja, Bollywood Grill, and Taste of India all have attentive staff experienced in guiding first-timers. The buffet format at HAD's, India Garden, and Himalayan Yak lets you sample widely before committing.

Celebration dining: For special occasions, Saffron (upscale), Indian Village locations (full bar and event space), and Bollywood Grill (private rooms) accommodate larger groups and celebrations.

Quick weeknight options: Ruta's (fast-casual), Shah Jee's (lunch counter), and Shri Foods (coming to Pewaukee) offer speed without sacrificing quality. Many restaurants provide reliable DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub delivery throughout the metro.

Regional cuisine quick reference

Understanding India's regional cuisines helps families navigate menus:

• North Indian (Punjabi): Creamy curries, tandoori meats, naan bread, butter chicken, tikka masala. Found at most restaurants.

• South Indian: Dosas (crispy lentil crepes), idli, sambar, coconut-based dishes. Best at Honest Milwaukee and Aathira Foods.

• Hyderabadi: Aromatic biryanis, spiced rice dishes. Specialty of Hyderabad House.

• Gujarati: Vegetarian thalis, slightly sweet flavors. Uniquely available at Indian Village Greenfield.

• Indo-Chinese: Fusion dishes like gobi manchurian, hakka noodles, chili paneer. Available at most restaurants.

• Nepali: Momos (dumplings), thukpa soup. Found at Himalayan Yak and Everest Cafe.

• Pakistani: Similar to North Indian with distinct spice profiles. Shah Jee's and Chit Chaat specialize here.

Greater Milwaukee's Indian dining scene continues to grow, with new restaurants opening and established favorites maintaining their excellence. Whether you're steps from Lake Michigan or out in Lake Country, excellent Indian food is within reach for your family's next dining adventure.