Best Cheap Indian Restaurants in Oakland | Cheap Indian Food

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Indian Restaurants in Oakland | Cheap Indian Food

• Cafe Tibet — Indian · rated 5/5: Stepping into Cafe Tibet feels like a warm embrace, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of ginger-infused broths and hand-folded dumplings. The kitchen celebrates the soulful flavors of the Himalayas, serving up steaming bowls of hand-pulled thenthuk noodles and vibrant, spice-kissed vegetable stews that offer a nourishing escape from the bustle outside. Platters of delicate, pan-seared momos arrive at the table alongside crispy broccoli florets dusted in curry, creating a dining experience that is as heart-warming as it is authentic.
• Munch India — Indian · rated 5/5: Munch India invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted cumin and garlic-infused naan pulled fresh from the tandoor. The kitchen balances the playful, tangy crunch of street-food favorites like dahi papri chaat with the deep, comforting warmth of slow-simmered masalas and succulent tandoori prawns. Every meal is a colorful celebration of spice and texture, anchored by pillowy breads and fragrant basmati pulao that turn a simple dinner into a rich, sensory journey.
• Breads of India — Indian · rated 5/5: The air at Breads of India is thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices and sizzling ghee, drawing guests into a space where traditional flatbreads are transformed into gourmet works of art. Flaky, golden paratha folds serve as buttery vessels for an array of vibrant fillings, ranging from succulent spiced lamb and tender prawns to earthy seasonal vegetables. Each meal is a symphony of textures, balanced by the satisfying snap of crisp papadums, the comforting warmth of tadka daal, and the cooling touch of herb-flecked yogurt raita.
• JotMahal — Indian · rated 4/5: JotMahal invites diners into a vibrant sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of toasted spices and saffron-infused basmati rice fills the air. Golden, hand-crafted pakoras and tangy samosa chaat offer a crisp, flavorful prelude to a feast of fragrant, slow-cooked biryanis and velvety paneer makhni. This neighborhood gem balances bold, aromatic heat with comforting textures, creating a soulful dining experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of traditional Indian flavors.
• Mount Everest — Indian · rated 4/5: Mount Everest transports diners to a world of vibrant spice and warmth, where the enticing aroma of toasted cumin and fresh coriander fills an inviting space. Golden, hand-folded samosas and crisp vegetable pakoras provide a satisfying crunch, while colorful chaats offer a playful explosion of tangy chutneys and savory textures. The kitchen transforms humble ingredients into soulful masterpieces like the spice-kissed aloo gobi, creating a comforting experience that celebrates the bold, aromatic heart of Himalayan cuisine.
• Elaichi — Indian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Elaichi feels like a warm embrace, where the fragrant steam of cardamom-infused Karak chai fills the air and mingles with the rich, roasted notes of specialty espresso. Whether cradling a steaming cup of velvety oat milk chai or a perfectly pulled cortado, guests find a serene sanctuary where traditional South Asian flavors meet the precision of modern coffee craft.
• Bangkok by the Bay — Thai · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched flavors meet a coastal breeze at Bangkok by the Bay, where the vibrant energy of Thailand’s bustling markets is reimagined in a bright, welcoming atmosphere. The air hums with the fragrance of sizzling holy basil and aromatic yellow curry, while artfully composed sets bring together the fiery heat of Southern-style beef and the refreshing, zesty crunch of green papaya salads. Each plate offers a balanced journey through Thailand’s regional landscapes, inviting diners to linger over smoky grilled meats and herb-forward stir-frys that capture the soul of authentic Southeast Asian cooking.
• Koolfi Creamery — Indian · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the air is perfumed with the nostalgic scents of warm cardamom and toasted nuts. Velvety scoops of artisanal ice cream and dense, traditional kulfi celebrate bold Indian botanicals, ranging from the sun-drenched brightness of Alphonso mango to the delicate floral whisper of rose petals. Each spoonful offers a playful bridge between heritage and modern craft, delivering a cooling, decadent escape that lingers beautifully on the palate.
• Dessert N Spice — Indian · rated 4/5: This charming sweet shop envelops visitors in the nostalgic aroma of warm vanilla and rich cocoa, showcasing a glass case filled with perfectly swirled cupcakes and elegant, multi-layered cake slices. From the zesty brightness of lemon to the deep, decadent layers of a tuxedo sponge, each handcrafted treat offers a moment of pure indulgence designed to turn any afternoon into a celebration of sugary perfection.
• Taste of the Himalayas — Indian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this vibrant sanctuary feels like a journey to the roof of the world, where the air is thick with the warming aromas of toasted cumin, ginger, and cardamom. Hand-pleated momos burst with savory juices alongside fragrant, slow-simmered curries that capture the soul-warming essence of mountain comfort. Intricate tapestries and soft lighting create an intimate backdrop for a culinary adventure that honors the rich, spice-laden heritage of the Himalayas.
• Nippon Curry — Japanese · rated 4/5: The air at Nippon Curry is thick with the intoxicating, earthy aroma of slow-simmered spices and caramelized onions, drawing diners into a space of quiet, savory anticipation. Velvety, golden-brown sauces blanket mounds of steaming rice and crisp, golden-fried cutlets, offering a masterclass in the art of Japanese comfort food. Every spoonful delivers a soul-warming depth of flavor, creating a dining experience that feels like a heartfelt embrace in the form of a meal.
• Spice I am — Thai · rated 3/5: Spice I am pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling kitchen, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted spices and the irresistible sizzle of golden, crispy delights. Guests are invited to dive into a world of contrasting textures, from the delicate, flaky crunch of curry puffs and buttery roti to the refreshing, herb-filled snap of chilled shrimp rolls. This lively destination captures the spirited essence of Southeast Asian street food, offering a sensory journey through bold, soul-warming flavors that turn every shared plate into a celebration.
• Udupi Palace — Indian · rated 3/5: The air at Udupi Palace is thick with the comforting scent of toasted lentils and tempered spices, drawing diners into a bright, bustling space where South Indian tradition takes center stage. Crispy, golden dosas stretch across large platters, hiding savory fillings of spiced potatoes, while vibrant coconut chutneys and steaming bowls of tangy sambar offer a kaleidoscope of authentic, soulful flavors. Whether sharing a communal thali or savoring a steaming cup of frothy Madras coffee, every meal feels like a warm and vibrant journey through the heart of coastal India.
• Mehak — Indian · rated 3/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and ginger wafts from the kitchen, inviting guests to linger over plates of golden-fried pakoras and spice-dusted samosas. The kitchen balances the smoky char of traditional tandoori specialties with the comforting warmth of slow-simmered dal, creating a tapestry of textures and spices that dance on the palate. Whether sharing an assortment of crisp Indian snacks or diving into a zesty bowl of chilli chicken, diners find themselves enveloped in a rich culinary journey that honors authentic tradition.
• Marugame Udon — Japanese · rated 3/5: The air hums with energy and the fragrant steam of boiling dashi as skilled chefs hand-stretch and cut thick, chewy noodles in a vibrant open-kitchen theater. Diners craft their own comfort through bowls of velvety Nikutama or spicy, soul-warming curry, creating a lively sensory experience where the artisanal craft of the Japanese noodle takes center stage.
• Tigerlily Berkeley — Indian: This vibrant Berkeley destination reimagines Indian soul food through a contemporary lens, where the warm aroma of toasted spices meets the sophisticated tang of creamy chevre and sweet fig jam. Guests gather in a spirited atmosphere to savor everything from golden, tikka-infused fried chicken to aromatic veggie kormas, creating a dining experience that feels both adventurous and deeply comforting.
• Shaan Indian Cuisine — Indian: Shaan Indian Cuisine welcomes guests with the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices and the rhythmic sizzle of the tandoor oven, creating an atmosphere of vibrant warmth and hospitality. Velvety curries simmer with layers of complex flavor while pillowy, garlic-flecked naan arrives charred and steaming to the table, offering a sensory journey through the heart of traditional Indian cooking. It is a space where every dish tells a story of heritage, blending time-honored techniques with a soulful approach that turns a simple meal into a rich, aromatic escape.
• Summer Summer Thai — Thai: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the air is thick with the fragrant perfume of lemongrass and the rhythmic sizzle of the wok. Plates of golden pineapple fried rice and silky yellow curry arrive at sun-drenched tables, offering a bright explosion of traditional Thai flavors balanced with a playful, modern energy. Whether you are diving into the fiery depth of drunken noodles or the delicate, crisp sweetness of their signature sole, every bite captures the spirited warmth of a perpetual summer afternoon.
• Kabana — Indian: Kabana serves as a vibrant sanctuary where the smoky allure of charcoal-grilled delicacies mingles with a rich tapestry of bold, aromatic spices. The atmosphere hums with a convivial energy, inviting guests to linger over fire-kissed plates that celebrate a soulful intersection of culinary tradition and rustic warmth.
• MintLeaf — Indian: MintLeaf invites diners into a vibrant sanctuary where the fragrant aroma of lemongrass and fresh mint fills the air, setting the stage for a masterclass in Vietnamese textures. The kitchen artfully balances the crunch of golden, hand-rolled imperial rolls with the delicate, translucent snap of chilled spring rolls packed with succulent prawns and creamy avocado. Sizzling claypots of mussels arrive at the table amidst a parade of herb-forward dishes, offering a refreshing and authentic journey through Southeast Asian flavors in a bright, contemporary setting.
• House Of Curries — Indian: Stepping into this vibrant space, guests are immediately enveloped by the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and slow-simmered spices that drift from the bustling kitchen. Velvety curries in deep hues of saffron and crimson take center stage, paired with pillowy, char-flecked naan that arrives warm and ready to soak up every drop of rich, complex sauce. It is a soulful celebration of spice and heritage, offering a comforting dining experience that feels like a warm embrace for the palate.
• Pochy's Homestyle South Indian — Indian: Pochy’s Homestyle South Indian captures the vibrant spirit of Bengaluru, welcoming guests with the comforting sizzle of golden masala dosas and the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered village curries. The kitchen masters the art of regional soul food, where the fiery crunch of Chicken 65 meets the fragrant, herb-infused depths of traditional Donne Biriyani for a truly authentic and heartfelt dining experience.
• House of Curries — Indian: Stepping into this vibrant space, guests are immediately enveloped by the intoxicating fragrance of toasted spices and slow-simmered sauces that have been perfected over generations. Velvety curries arrive at the table in a kaleidoscope of colors, paired with pillowy, charred naan and fragrant basmati rice that invite diners to linger over every bold, layered flavor. The atmosphere hums with the warmth of a home-cooked feast, making it a soulful destination where authentic comfort is served in every steaming bowl.
• Biryani Kabab Halal Indian and Pakistani Cuisine — Indian: The air here is thick with the intoxicating perfume of toasted spices and saffron-infused basmati rice, drawing guests into a vibrant celebration of Indian and Pakistani flavors. Tender morsels of charred chicken tikka and slow-simmered goat curry meet velvety bowls of butter chicken, all designed to be scooped up with warm, pillowy folds of fresh butter naan. From the initial crunch of a golden samosa to the complex, aromatic layers of a steaming biryani, every dish offers a soulful journey through traditional recipes that feel both deeply comforting and authentically bold.
• Taava Kitchen — Indian: Stepping into Taava Kitchen, guests are greeted by the rhythmic sizzle of the griddle and the intoxicating aroma of hand-ground spices blooming in the heat. Vibrant plates showcase the artistry of open-flame cooking, from succulent, char-kissed meats to pillowy flatbreads that arrive warm and fragrant at the table. This lively space invites diners to linger over bold, soulful flavors that celebrate the rich traditions of the hearth in a modern, welcoming setting.
• New Delhi Bistro — Indian: Golden light spills across a space alive with the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the fragrant steam of hand-ground spices. From the smoky char of the tandoor to the rich, complex depths of slow-cooked gravies, each dish captures the soul of Indian street markets and royal kitchens alike. It is a place where the warmth of hospitality meets a bold explosion of flavor, turning every meal into a celebratory feast for the senses.
• 4 Dreams Nepali Indian Cuisine — Indian: Stepping into 4 Dreams feels like a journey to the foothills of the Himalayas, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin, cardamom, and ginger. Hand-pleated momos arrive steaming to the table alongside vibrant, slow-simmered curries that balance bold heat with delicate herbal notes, creating a soulful dining experience that bridges two rich culinary traditions.
• Curry Pizza House — Indian: Curry Pizza House serves as a spirited crossroads where the warmth of traditional Indian spices infuses the familiar comfort of a neighborhood pizzeria. Guests are greeted by the enticing scent of golden samosas and zesty masala chips, leading into a culinary experience defined by bold innovations like fragrant desi garlic sticks and fiery jalapeno-topped snacks. This vibrant, aromatic space transforms a casual meal into a soulful exploration of cross-cultural flavors and textures.
• Himalayan Bite — Indian: Himalayan Bite pulses with the vibrant energy of a mountain-side kitchen, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of toasted spices and the fiery sizzle of signature chilies. Golden-crisped cauliflower and zesty Tiger Wings deliver a satisfying crunch alongside soulful, spice-flecked omelets that evoke the warmth of a traditional home-cooked meal. This spirited destination brings together bold Indo-Chinese fusion and rustic comfort, creating a lively atmosphere where every bite feels like a discovery.
• Noor Indian Fusion Kitchen — Indian: Noor Indian Fusion Kitchen invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of toasted spices and sizzling tandoori meats. Golden, crispy pakoras and tangy samosa chaat offer a playful explosion of textures, while flame-kissed chicken tikka and hearty kathi rolls showcase a soulful blend of traditional techniques and modern flair. It is a destination where the warmth of classic Indian comfort food meets the energy of contemporary street fare, creating an experience that is both familiar and exhilarating.