Top Indian Restaurants In Florida Perfect For Your Diwali Celebration
Diwali, the festival of lights, calls for gathering with loved ones around delicious food. If you’re in Florida this festive season, you’re in luck!
The Sunshine State boasts some incredible Indian restaurants that capture authentic flavors and festive ambiance. Here’s my handpicked list of places that’ll make your Diwali celebration extra special this year.
1. Curry Leaves, Sarasota
Tucked away in Sarasota, Curry Leaves is a hidden diamond that brings the warmth and depth of South Indian flavors to Florida’s Gulf Coast. Family-owned and proudly rooted in tradition, the restaurant transforms during Diwali with twinkling diyas, floral garlands, and colorful decor that mirrors the festive spirit of India.
Their Diwali tasting menu is a local favorite, featuring dishes like buttery chicken chettinad, crisp masala dosa, and melt-in-your-mouth gulab jamun. But what truly sets them apart is their house-made Kerala-style beef fry, packed with roasted spices and curry leaves. It’s bold, comforting, and unforgettable.
2. Tamarind Indian Cuisine, Orlando
Just minutes from Orlando’s theme parks, Tamarind offers a culinary adventure rivaling any Disney experience. Their tandoor oven produces some of the juiciest kebabs I’ve ever tasted!
For Diwali, they transform their already beautiful space with hanging lanterns and flower garlands. The chef creates special festival menus featuring regional delicacies from across India.
If you’re new to Indian cuisine, their friendly staff provides excellent recommendations tailored to your spice preference. Their mango lassi makes the perfect cooling companion to spicier dishes.
3. Indian by Nature, Miami
What a hidden treasure in Miami’s arts district! Indian by Nature blends traditional recipes with modern presentation that’ll make your Instagram followers drool. The chef-owner trained in five-star hotels across India before bringing his expertise to Florida.
Their Diwali celebration includes live music performances and a special menu featuring regional festival dishes. I’m absolutely addicted to their chaat station where they prepare street food favorites right before your eyes!
The restaurant’s contemporary décor with touches of traditional Indian art creates the perfect backdrop for your Diwali celebration photos.
4. Saffron Indian Cuisine, Fort Lauderdale
Looking for royal treatment this Diwali? Saffron’s elegant dining room channels the palaces of Rajasthan with its ornate décor and attentive service. The moment you enter, the aromatic blend of cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon envelops you.
Their Diwali tasting menu showcases dishes once served to Indian royalty. My personal favorite is their lamb biryani, fragrant basmati rice layered with tender meat and saffron.
The owner personally visits tables during Diwali, sharing stories about the festival and sometimes bringing complimentary desserts. Their private dining room accommodates larger family gatherings.
5. Chennai Masala, Jacksonville
Southern Indian cuisine takes center stage at this Jacksonville favorite! Unlike the cream-heavy dishes of North India, Chennai Masala specializes in lighter, coconut-based curries and rice specialties from Tamil Nadu.
Their Diwali celebration features special South Indian festival dishes rarely found elsewhere in Florida. The dosas here are legendary, massive crispy crepes filled with spiced potatoes that extend beyond your plate!
During festive seasons, they offer cooking demonstrations where you can learn to make traditional Diwali sweets. The restaurant’s casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for celebrations with kids.
6. Vedas Indian Restaurant, Boca Raton
Health-conscious foodies, you’ve found your Diwali destination! Vedas in Boca Raton specializes in Ayurvedic cooking principles, creating dishes that are both delicious and beneficial for your wellbeing.
Their festival menu features lighter, vegetable-forward options that won’t leave you feeling heavy after celebrating. The restaurant’s serene atmosphere, with water features and natural materials, creates a peaceful setting for meaningful gatherings.
I’m particularly fond of their thali platters that balance six tastes according to Ayurvedic traditions. They also offer cooking classes where you can learn healthy Indian cooking techniques.
7. Tabla Indian Restaurant, Orlando
Fusion fans will fall head over heels for Tabla’s creative approach to Indian cuisine! This Orlando hotspot blends traditional Indian flavors with global influences, creating unique dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
Their Diwali tasting menu might feature unexpected combinations like tandoori-spiced scallops or curry leaf-infused risotto.
The restaurant’s sleek, contemporary design with subtle Indian touches makes it perfect for those wanting a modern celebration. Their outdoor patio, strung with lights, creates magical Diwali vibes.
8. Punjabi Dhaba, Tallahassee
Tallahassee’s hidden jewel, Punjabi Dhaba, brings the vibrant tastes of Punjab to Florida. The rustic and cozy setting of the restaurant transports diners to a traditional Punjabi village, perfect for a Diwali celebration.
Famous for their rich and hearty dishes, Punjabi Dhaba’s menu boasts a variety of options that highlight the robust flavors of North Indian cuisine. The lamb curry, in particular, is a must-try, offering a perfect blend of spices that dance on your taste buds.
For a sweet ending, their mango lassi is a refreshing treat that perfectly complements the spicy offerings. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Punjabi Dhaba offers an authentic Indian dining experience.
9. Rasa Indian Cuisine, West Palm Beach
Beach vibes meet Indian flavors at this West Palm Beach establishment with gorgeous waterfront views. Rasa’s seafood specialties reflect Florida’s coastal bounty with an Indian twist.
Their Diwali celebrations often include waterside festivities with floating lanterns. The Kerala fish curry uses local catch in a traditional South Indian coconut sauce that’ll make you swoon!
If weather permits, request outdoor seating for your celebration, watching the sunset over the water while enjoying Indian delicacies creates an unforgettable Diwali experience. Their mango cheesecake with cardamom crust offers a delicious East-meets-West finale.
10. Bombay Darbar, Tampa
Spice lovers, rejoice! This Tampa gem serves up North Indian cuisine with that perfect kick of authentic spices. Their private dining area transforms into a mini-celebration spot during Diwali, complete with festive decorations.
The butter chicken here melts in your mouth while the freshly baked naan comes piping hot to your table. I could eat their samosas all day, crispy outside with a perfectly seasoned potato filling inside.
They offer special Diwali platters featuring traditional sweets like gulab jamun and jalebi for the complete festival experience.
11. Royal India, Miami
Feel like royalty this Diwali at Miami’s most opulent Indian restaurant! Royal India recreates the grandeur of Mughal palaces with its ornate décor, gold accents, and plush seating.
Their Diwali special menu features dishes once served in royal courts, like slow-cooked nihari and delicate koftas. Live tabla and sitar music during festival weekends creates an immersive experience.
The service here is exceptional. Servers in traditional attire explain each dish’s history and ingredients. For the ultimate celebration, book their private maharaja room complete with throne-like chairs and customizable lighting.
12. Anjappar Chettinad Indian Restaurant, Orlando
Spice enthusiasts, prepare for flavor paradise! Anjappar specializes in Chettinad cuisine from Tamil Nadu, known for its complex spice blends and bold flavors.
During Diwali, they create special festival dishes featuring traditional Chettinad spice mixes you won’t find elsewhere in Florida. The chicken 65, crispy, spicy bites of joy, pairs perfectly with their cooling raita.
The restaurant’s casual atmosphere makes it ideal for families. Kids love watching the chefs prepare dosas in the semi-open kitchen. Their special Diwali sweet platter features regional specialties like mysore pak and adhirasam.
