West Los Angeles is home to several South Asian restaurants that offer delicious dishes in a welcoming setting. As an Indian journalist living in West L.A., I have tried the most popular ones. From unassuming eateries serving traditional delicacies to stylish restaurants offering innovative fusion dishes, these are the finest South Asian restaurants in West Los Angeles. Bookmark this thoughtfully curated guide for when the Indian food craving strikes! Here are what I consider West Los Angeles’ best Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi restaurants.

Arth Bar & Kitchen, Culver City 

Located in downtown Culver City, Arth Bar and Kitchen serves modern Indian food in an elevated dining setting. The restaurant’s expert culinary team uses good quality and fresh ingredients to craft delectable traditional Indian and fusion dishes. Founded by Mihir Lad, this lively eatery’s signature dishes include Butter Chicken, Bombay Pav Bhaji, Avocado Bhel, Fish Moilee, Malai Chicken, Classic Samosas, Tikka Tacos, and Sholay Naan. I ordered the Signature Butter Chicken ($20) with Butter Naan ($4) and was blown away by how authentic it tasted. The dish was a rich, velvety blend of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and a creamy tomato sauce, with just the right balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Arth Bar & Kitchen also offers a delightful Indian brunch and late-night menu. Moreover, the restaurant’s Bollywood Brunch party is worth checking out!

Biriyani Kabob House, Koreatown 

This hole-in-the-wall, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi eatery is well-loved for its authentic food offerings that are perfectly spiced. The restaurant offers a lip-smacking range of kebabs, biryanis, and curries, all made with high-quality ingredients and halal meat. At Biryani Kabob House, the classics really shine. Must-try dishes from their simple and straightforward menu include Chicken Seekh Kabob, Chicken Chargha, Lamb Biryani, Fish Karahi, Lamb Shank Curry, Nalli Nihari, Saag Paneer, and Chicken Tikka Masala. 

Electric Karma, West Hollywood

Founded almost 20 years ago, Electric Karma is a vibrant eatery boasting eclectic interiors that pay homage to India’s rich culture and aesthetically pleasing furnishings. This restaurant is renowned for its impeccable service and colorful decor. The eatery’s menu is best described as traditional Indian food, with classics such as biryani, Butter Chicken, and tandoori-cooked meats. Additionally, Electric Karma recently expanded its cocktail menu, which features creative drinks such as the Kashmiri Saffron Martini and Bombay Sangria. At this eatery, the Fusion Tandoori Platter, Chicken Karma Soup, Aloo Gobi, Chana Masala, Bharta, Malai Kofta, Saag, Naan Bruschetta, and Paneer Masala Fries are crowd favorites. 

Mayura Indian Restaurant, Culver City 

A celebrity favorite, Mayura Indian Restaurant is a family-run establishment offering a taste of Indian home-style cooking. This award-winning, casual eatery is always crowded, and for good reason. The restaurant’s chefs whip up South Indian comfort food. Guests can order a la carte or opt for their lunch buffet for a quick yet satisfying meal. We suggest ordering the Kerala Special Chicken Curry, Chettinad Chicken, Masala Dosa, Fish Curry, Shrimp Masala, Onion Uthappam, and Gulab Jamun. At Mayura, I tried the Paper Masala Dosa ($15.95), a paper-thin rolled crispy crepe stuffed with mildly spiced mashed potatoes, and ​​​​Vegetable Samosa ($5.95). The dosa and samosa were perfectly crispy and packed a punch. I also love Mayura’s warm hospitality and friendly service. 

​​Abhiruchi Grill Indian Restaurant, Palms

Abhiruchi Grill in Palms is a hidden gem serving authentic South Asian cuisine with a special focus on tandoor-grilled meats. This no-frills restaurant offers a diverse menu, including vegetarian options and an excellent Indo-Chinese selection. Order the Chilli Paneer, Chicken Lollypop, Shrimp Tandoori, Kadai Vegetable, Vegetable Chettinad, Abhiruchi Chicken Curry, Chicken Dum Biryani, and you will not be disappointed. Abhiruchi Grill is my go-to for spicy Indo-Chinese takeout in West Los Angeles.

Photo Courtesy of Electric Karma.