Best Indian Restaurants in Lake Forest, California
1
Royal India Restaurant
Address: 24288 Swartz Dr, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Royal India Restaurant in Lake Forest, California stands as a welcoming establishment offering an extensive buffet selection of authentic North Indian cuisine. The spacious interior, tucked behind a gas station, features comfortable seating and a warm atmosphere where guests can enjoy both vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties like butter chicken, goat curry, and fresh-baked naan bread. The restaurant's experienced chefs consistently deliver flavorful dishes at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among locals seeking traditional Indian flavors in South Orange County.
Known For
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Prices: Many reviews emphasize the excellent value and affordability of the food, particularly the lunch buffet.
Staff: Numerous reviews consistently describe the staff as friendly, attentive, courteous, and providing great service.
Parking: One review mentions that parking was "super easy," while another implies ample parking due to the spaciousness of the restaurant itself.
Takeout: While many reviews focus on the buffet and dine-in experiences, some mention ordering takeout, indicating that this option is available.
Vegan: Several reviews highlight the restaurant's ability to offer vegan dishes, including modifying existing menu items and providing vegan alternatives.
2
Nina's Indian & British Grocery + Restaurant
Address: 23542 El Toro Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Nina's Indian & British Grocery + Restaurant in Lake Forest, California offers a unique combination of retail and dining experiences, featuring a well-stocked grocery store with Indian and British imported goods alongside a casual eatery serving authentic Indian cuisine. The establishment's cafeteria-style restaurant serves generous portions of traditional dishes like curry, biryani, and their notably large naan bread, while the grocery section provides everything from bulk spices and fresh produce to imported snacks and specialty ingredients. Though the store's narrow aisles can feel cramped during busy times, customers appreciate the convenient one-stop shop for both dining and purchasing hard-to-find Indian and British products.
Known For
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Prices: Reviews are mixed on pricing. Some describe prices as reasonable or good value, while others say they are expensive or high.
Staff: Many reviews commend the staff for being friendly, helpful, and attentive.
Parking: Reviews indicate that there is ample parking available near the restaurant.
Takeout: Many reviews mention takeout as an option.
Vegan: Several reviews highlight vegetarian and vegan options, indicating that such dishes are available.
3
Chili Chutney Restaurant
Address: 24301 Muirlands Blvd # A, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Chili Chutney Restaurant in Lake Forest, California offers a blend of Afghan and Pakistani cuisine in a modern dining setting with ample parking. The menu features traditional dishes like kabuli palau, chapli kabab, and various rice-based entrees served in generous portions that reflect the region's culinary heritage. The establishment provides both dine-in and takeout options, with a Sunday buffet that gives diners a chance to sample multiple dishes in one sitting.
Known For
Not Noted
Prices: Reviews offer mixed opinions on pricing. Some find prices reasonable or affordable, while others describe them as high or unexpectedly expensive.
Staff: Reviews on staff friendliness and attentiveness are mixed. Some praise the friendly and welcoming staff, while others report poor service, inattentiveness, and long wait times.
Parking: Multiple reviews confirm the availability of parking, some even specifying ample free self-parking and Tesla chargers.
Takeout: Several reviews explicitly state that takeout is available.
Vegan: The reviews do not provide enough information to determine if vegan options are available.
4
Social Aroma
Address: Social Aroma (Inside Comfort Inn & Suites, 23702 Rockfield Blvd, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Social Aroma in Lake Forest, California, is a unique Indian restaurant tucked away inside a Comfort Inn, offering a diverse menu of authentic dishes in an unexpected location. The establishment serves everything from traditional curries and biryani to innovative Indian-style pizzas, with dishes that generally lean towards milder spice levels. The cozy dining space, while modest in size, provides a clean and welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy fresh, flavorful cuisine prepared with a modern twist.
Known For
Not Noted
Prices: Some reviews mention the price as 'pricey' or 'not bad', suggesting mixed opinions on affordability.
Staff: Many reviews mention friendly and attentive staff, while one notes slow service.
Parking: The reviews do not specifically address parking availability.
Takeout: Several reviews mention takeout orders, indicating its availability.
Vegan: The reviews do not provide enough information to determine if vegan dishes are offered.