Food from India is a sophisticated blend of multiple spices, herbs, and cooking techniques. With many vegetarian options in their diet, there is so much to choose from by any diner's standards. Other proteins include chicken, lamb, fish, and even goat...but the Hindus do not eat beef and Muslims don't eat pork, so those two are not commonly seen in Indian fare. Indian culture makes dining an event, usually consisting of at least two to three courses. The most common ingredients in Indian food are chili peppers, lentils, rice, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and garlic...and most curries are made with vegetable oil. Traditional etiquette for Indian dining is to sit on the floor and eat with your hands (no cutlery)! No fear, in Los Angeles you won't find many places that make you give up your fork, but, you will find plenty of choices for delicious, classic Indian delights.

Electric Lotus
4656 Franklin Ave (corner of Vermont)
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Ph: 323-953-0040

For over 10 years, Electric Lotus has been serving high quality Indian and Punjabi cuisine. Located in the trendy Los Feliz area, the space is stylish, very authentic in design (tons of colorful paintings and patchworks), and very relaxed and comfortable to sit in. Enjoy classics like Lamb Boti Kabobs and sizzling platters from their Tandoori Clay Oven.

Tantra
3705 W. Sunset Blvd
Silverlake, CA 90026
Ph: 323-663-8268

Tantra is the epitome of upscale, modern Indian fine dining. It's nice to see a real finesse and complexity to this style of food, which can otherwise come across as a little messy or family-style. The artwork and lounge area are something out of a Bollywood film; the murals and scripture on the wall is so festive and spiritual at the same time. The lounge stays open for after hours...and Mondays they are closed.

Flavor of India
9045 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Ph: 310-274-1715

Flavor of India is more a reflection of traditional, home-style Indian dishes that serve as comfort food for the soul. Chef Darshan Singh, who cooked at Bombay Café for seven years, has brought a lot of fusion and snack food to his menu, to accommodate a younger, hipper crowd. Try the Samosas, the Chutney Sampler (sweetens up any spicy dish), and they're Chicken Curry of the Day.

Surya India
8048 W. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Ph: 323-653-5151

Open since 2000, Surya has consistently received rave reviews and positive hype. A non-traditional menu that incorporates Seabass with Tandoori, Tuna, and Turkey dishes, young chef Sheel Joshi (from both Indian and European descent) gives the menu a real worldliness. Great selection of Indian beers and fine wines from Germany, Australia, Italy, New Zealand, and France that pair so well with this type of cuisine. Try the amazing selection of Nan breads and Vegetarian dishes (particularly my favorite, Sag Aloo-spinach, potatoes, and homemade cheese.

Bombay Café
12021 W. Pico Blvd
Los Angeles, CA
Ph: 310-473-3388

The old standby! Bringing authentic "street food" from North, South, and Central India to Los Angeles since 1989, owners Neela Paniz and David Chaparro a real love of good food to Bombay Café. Try the Masala Dosa (an South-Indian crepe stuffed with spiced potatoes and coconut chutney), Pappadums (lentil crackers), and the Badaam Cake for dessert (toasted almond w/ light citrus).

Written by: Erin Landsberg