Subcontinental Cuisine: Indian Food in Los Angeles

4656 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

We've been spending most our lives living in a Punjab paradise: Techno-laced sitar music, silky swaths of hanging fabric and more than 80 entrees (for both vegetarians and carnivores) keep Los Feliz locals coming back for more at this boho-chic mainstay.

3705 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 (map)

Bringing a taste of Bollywood glamour to the Eastside, this late-night haunt is where foodies head for curries and tandoories ... and where singles converge for the weekend DJ-and-drinking scene.

8048 W Third St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

Named after the Hindu sun god, this warm, saffron-colored space is where to find creative options like seared tuna tandoori (a tasty spin on a California favorite) and saag paneer studded with farmer's cheese.

50 N La Cienega Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (map)

With a makeover fit for the Maharajah (the space was formerly the site of Gaylord), this plush Indian favorite on Restaurant Row is where to indulge in fare like drunken scallops and velvet lamb kebab. Oh, and the 2,000-bottle wine cellar offers plenty of options as well.

8222 1/2 W Third St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (map)

A longtime 'hood favorite, this red-hued spot offers popular dishes like the pakoras (tandoori dishes for two) as well as karma specials like gobi frankie, an egg-washed tortilla stuffed with caulifower, potatoes, two chutneys and marinated onions.

145 S Barrington Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (map)

Located on a busy stretch in Brentwood, this cozy neigborhood nook is where northern Indian cuisine gets a twist--think tandoori sea bass and steak and fresh dipping sauces like the unusual coconut cream.

2627 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403 (map)

With a fresh remodel and even fresher menu, Santa Monica's saucy Indian spot has stepped things up with a daily soup, seafood specials and more stylish digs. One thing that remains the same: The "one to five chili meter" that helps determine the level of spiciness for each dish.

1621 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403 (map)

The white tablecloths and elevated price points convey a slightly more upscale experience than most Indian restaurants, but the friendly service and fresh fare--not to mention the delicious mango lassis and complimentary spicy cauliflower chutney and papadum--keep Santa Monica locals coming back for more.

10200 Venice Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232 (map)

There might not be much of a view at this Culver City joint, but so what? When you've got a huge TV screen to keep you company--not to mention an even bigger menu of vegetarian delights like rasam (spicy Indian soup), samosas, curries, daily specials and milk shakes--it's all good.

18701 Pioneer Blvd, Artesia, CA 90701 (map)

Don't want to fork over plane fare for a trip to India? No problem. Head over to this no-frills resto-shop in Artesia's "Little India" for some authentic vegetarian meals, sweet dessert deals and local families chatting away in their native tongue.