Growing up in Austin and as a lover of food, I’m a fan of the city’s cultural food scene. But more than anything, I’ve been an Indian food lover since day one. My parents’ home-cooked meals are hands down the best food I’ve had in my life. No restaurant can quite compare to the comfort of my mom’s freshly made daal or the aroma of spices filling the house as my parents cook together on the weekends when I’m back home. So I’m sharing some of my favorite spots around town that remind me of home. Each offers something uniquely Austin, while staying true to their Indian roots.

To start, we should mention West Campus’s own Chat Patta. Located in the food truck park on 26 Street and Rio Grande Street, their proximity to UT is a big plus, but the menu keeps me a regular customer. Every time I go, I cannot leave until I get a cup of their mango lassi. While the drink is pricier than I’d hoped at $6 for an 8-ounce cup, it’s 100% worth it — especially on a hot day in Austin. However, what really keeps me coming back is their paratha tacos. Imagine the classic taco, but with a bold twist — a blend of Indian flavors but in the form of a Mexican taco. Because I’m vegetarian, I got the paneer cheese version, but you can get them with chicken, chickpeas or lamb. The paneer is perfectly cooked and seasoned, and I like to pair them with masala fries. It’s a combination that’s hard to beat. Every bite is a burst of flavor, with amazing spices, and I can’t get enough. The best part about this place is the location so close to campus, making it a perfect stop for a quick, delicious meal before heading to class or after a long day. 

Then there’s Dosa Shack, a food truck about a 15-minute drive from campus, which brings a truly inventive fusion to Indian cuisine. Dosas are a staple in South Indian cooking — they are crispy and savory, and have coined the name “Indian crepe.” This food truck takes it to another level by mixing in unique flavors from around the world, such as Mexican cheese, jalapenos and pumpkin. They also have other delicious bites like their peri peri masala fries, a spicy, tangy twist on the classic Indian snack. And don’t even get me started on the samosa nachos! It’s exactly what it sounds like: a plate of crispy nachos loaded with the flavors of samosas — spiced potatoes, peas and a tangy sauce called chutney. It’s one of those dishes that’s so rich in flavor yet comforting. If you’re craving bold, unique flavors with an Indian twist, Dosa Shack is a must-visit for a one-of-a-kind food experience.

Finally, to end on a more traditional Indian food spot, I have to review one of my favorites, Pav Bhaji Express, a food truck about a 10-minute drive from campus. As someone who has grown up with North Indian flavors, this place hits home in the best way possible. Pav Bhaji Express is known as the “true taste of Mumbai street food,” according to their reviews. If you don’t know, pav bhaji is a very famous Indian street food — a spicy, buttery vegetable curry served with toasted bread. At Pav Bhaji Express, it’s as authentic as it gets, and they have this special cheese topping that blends perfectly with the rest of the dish. It’s delicious and spicy in all the right ways, making it one of my top picks when I’m craving something close to home. They also have other Mumbai classics like vada pav and pani puri. Vada pav is a crispy potato patty served in a soft bun, and the pani puri is a fun snack that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a burst of tangy and spice in one dish. The best part? The prices are fair and you get good portion sizes for all of their dishes, so if you’re looking for something that feels like a little taste of India that is a comforting and exciting experience, this place should be at the top of your list.

If you can’t already tell, Austin’s food scene is truly unique and has something to offer everyone. For me, though, nothing beats the twists on Indian classics that you can find around this city. Whether it’s a fusion meal or an authentic Indian street food dish, these spots remind me of the rich culture that Austin embraces, all while staying true to the flavors I grew up with. These spots have given me a little taste of home. If you haven’t been I’d add these to your Austin food bucket list right now!