Indian Restaurants and Curry Houses with Authentic Dishes

Prague has a range of Indian restaurants that are frequently visited by Indian expats who live and work in Prague. This means that the dishes are authentically Indian and that the right amount of spices is used. To suit the Czech palate, there are sometimes two versions of the same dish, spicy and mild.

Contents:
1. Difference between South and North Indian Cuisine
2. Typical Indian dishes
3. What is a thali?
4. List of Indian restaurants in Prague

1. Difference between South and North Indian Cuisine

South Indian and North Indian cuisines differ considerably in terms of ingredients and preparation methods. In general, North Indian cuisine uses thicker sauces and curries and South Indian has lighter dishes.

This difference can be explained when you look at the climate. In northern India it is drier and therefore the focus is on wheat, millet and other grains. Chapati, naan and paratha (types of bread) are therefore widely eaten in this region. South India has a more humid climate, making rice more prominent in the dishes which are often paired with fish and sambar (a spicy lentil soup) and rasam (a spicy tamarind soup).

North Indian cuisine uses a variety of spices such as garam masala (a mix of spices including cinnamon, cardamom and cloves), kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), and cream, often from buffalo, for a full flavour. South Indian cuisine emphasizes fresh spices such as curry leaves, mustard seeds, red peppers, tamarind and freshly grated coconut.

2. Typical Indian dishes

North Indian cuisine: paneer tikka (marinated and grilled soft Indian cheese), butter chicken (grilled chicken in a creamy tomato sauce), dal makhani (spiced black lentil curry), and various types of biryani and pulao (rice dishes).

South Indian cuisine: dosa (a thin, crispy rice pancake), idli (steamed rice cakes), uttapam (thick savory pancakes), sambar, and chutneys.

3. Thali

The Indian dish thali is a traditional and popular meal served in many parts of India. The word thali refers to a metal tray with various small dishes and bowls containing different food.

The composition of a thali varies greatly depending on the region, the local cuisine and the type of restaurant. In general, however, a thali consists of the following elements:

* Main courses: These can be, for example, curries or dal (lentil soup), aloo gobi (potato-cauliflower curry), paneer makhani (cheese curry), chana masala (chickpea curry) or chicken tikka masala (grilled chicken in a tomato curry).

* Side dishes: These are usually different types of vegetable dishes, such as saag (spinach), bhindi (okra), baingan bharta (roasted eggplant puree).

* Rice: usually white rice but sometimes also spiced rice such as pulao or biryani.

* Bread: naan, roti, chapati, puri or paratha

Extras: raita (spiced yoghurt dip), papadum (spiced lentil waffles), pickle (pickled vegetables) and chutney (spicy sauces).

Dessert: gulab jamun (pudding in rose water), kheer (rice pudding), rasgulla (oil balls in sugar syrup) or halva.

List of 12 Indian Restaurants in Prague

1. Pind: Korunni 67, Vinohrady, offers an authentic taste of Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist. From aromatic curries to tandoori specialties, each dish is crafted with precision using traditional Indian spices and locally sourced ingredients.

2. Namaste India: Palackeho 15, Nove Mesto, is a beloved Indian restaurant known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re craving classic dishes like butter chicken or adventurous flavours like paneer tikka masala you will be delighted to find them here.

3. Spice India: Husitská 17, Žižkov, offers a contemporary take on traditional Indian cuisine. With its sleek interior and innovative dishes, Spice India appeals to both adventurous foodies and those seeking familiar favourites. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy vindaloo or creamy korma, Spice India has something for everyone.

4. Indian Jewel: Rybná 9, Stare Mesto is a culinary gem known for its authentic flavours and charming ambiance. Indian Jewel provides a memorable dining experience for both locals and tourists alike. Be sure to try their signature dishes like chicken tikka masala and palak paneer.

5. Curry Palace: Jirečkova 13, Holešovice, is a bustling eatery famous for its generous portions and affordable prices. Whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout, Curry Palace delivers flavourful Indian cuisine that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. Don’t miss their selection of vegetarian and vegan options, perfect for health-conscious diners.

6. Indian By Nature: Pernerova 1, Karlin, offers a contemporary twist on classic Indian dishes. With its stylish décor and creative menu, Indian By Nature attracts a trendy crowd looking for innovative flavours and upscale dining experiences. Indulge in their fusion dishes like masala pizza or seafood curry for a truly unique culinary adventure.

7. Himalaya Indian Restaurant, Navratilvo 6, Nove Mesto, specializes in Himalayan cuisine from spicy curries to comforting dal and tandoori dishes, also vegetarian options. Each dish is bursting with bold flavours and aromatic spices.

8. Govinda Restaurace: Soukenicka 27, Stare Mesto, is a longtime favourite and offers a regulary changing menu with tasty, exotic dishes at affordable prices in a relaxing and meditative setting. The food is vegetarian, freshly made and exotic. Best is their set lunch menu: soup, vegetable meal served with rice, a salad and a dessert. Govinda is a part of the Center for Vedic Studies belonging to The International Society for Krishna Consciousness, known as the Hare Krishna movement.

9. Sangam, Sokolovska 71, KarlínAuthentic South Indian dishes and one of the few restaurants that has masala dosa on the menu. The lunch menu with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is very popular. The interior is opulent and Indian in style with deep seats for seating. At the back is a covered conservatory that looks less Indian.

10. Masala Andĕl, Jindřicha Plachty 27, Smíchov
The attractive thing about Masala Anděl is the lunch menu which features thali, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, but only on working days.

11. Bombay Express: Spalena 22, Nove Mesto, specializes in North Indian food, vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries, paneer tikka and dal fry. Several kinds of Indian bread from the tandoori oven. Bombay Express is a chain and has outlets in the food courts of most shopping malls in Prague. The branch in the Quadrio shopping mall in Spalena Street is very central,

12. Satyam, Galerie Harfa, Českomoravská 15a, Libeň is also a chain and has outlets in many shopping malls. Popular dishes are butter chicken, chicken vindaloo, chicken tikka masala served with rice or naan. Dal and thali are also favourites.

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photos Marianne Crone