If you’ve ever craved a proper desi meal in Bucharest, you know the struggle is real.
You want deep, rich curries that explode with flavor. You want naan that’s soft, fluffy, and brushed with butter. You want biryani that’s layered with saffron, not just yellow rice with chicken.
But what do you usually get?
Watered-down dishes, bland masalas, and naan so dry it could double as cardboard.
That’s why I went on a mission.
I spent weeks hunting down the best desi food in Bucharest, and after stuffing myself with kebabs, biryanis, and creamy butter chicken, I finally found the 5 BEST desi restaurants in the city.
And at the top of the list?
1. Sana’s Kitchen Hut – The Heart of Pakistani Home Cooking in Bucharest
There’s no debate—if you want authentic Pakistani food in Bucharest, this is the spot.
It’s not a commercialized chain. It’s not trying to be fancy.
Sana’s Kitchen Hut is pure, home-style comfort food—cooked with love.
The first time I ate here, I ordered Butter Chicken Boneless.
I expected it to be good, but what I got was mind-blowing.
The sauce was velvety, rich, and perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too heavy. The chicken? Melt-in-your-mouth tender. Paired with Garlic Butter Naan, it was a match made in foodie heaven.
But here’s the kicker…
Everything I’ve tried at Sana’s Kitchen Hut tastes just as good.
Ambiance
This isn’t a fancy Instagrammable spot—it’s cozy, warm, and packed with real desi vibes.
The second you walk in, you smell the sizzling Chicken Tikka Masala, the rich aroma of Butter Chicken, and the toasty scent of naan fresh from the tandoor.
Service
The service here feels personal.
Sana herself often checks in with guests, making sure every dish is cooked to perfection. The staff is attentive, fast, and always happy to make recommendations.
Affordability
For the portion sizes and quality, the prices are incredible.
A full meal for two? Expect to spend 90-120 RON—and trust me, you won’t leave hungry.
Must Try
✅ Butter Chicken Boneless – The #1 best-seller, and for good reason. Creamy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect with naan.
✅ Chicken Tikka Masala – Tender, smoky, and cooked in a rich, spiced gravy.
✅ Garlic Butter Naan – Soft, warm, and brushed with just the right amount of butter.
✅ Tarka Rice / Zeera Rice / Basmati Rice – A must-have side to complete your meal.
✅ Samosa (1 Piece) – Crispy, golden perfection with a spicy potato filling.
2. Haveli Pakistani/Indian Restaurant – The King of Biryani
If you want a proper, spice-packed biryani, Haveli is where you go.
No shortcuts. No bland, flavorless rice. Just a mountain of perfectly cooked, aromatic biryani with layers of saffron, tender meat, and deep, rich flavors.
The first time I had their Chicken Biryani, I literally closed my eyes and just enjoyed the moment. It was that good.
Ambiance
Warm, cozy, and full of desi character. The space is simple but welcoming, and it’s always filled with the smell of freshly cooked spices.
Service
Fast, friendly, and full of recommendations.
The staff actually talk to you about your spice preference instead of just assuming you want mild flavors.
Affordability
You get massive portions for a fair price—expect to spend 120-150 RON for two.
Must Try
✅ Chicken Biryani – The best biryani in Bucharest. Hands down.
✅ Butter Chicken – Rich, indulgent, and perfectly balanced.
✅ Lamb Korma – A slow-cooked, deep-flavored masterpiece.
3. Taj Indian Cuisine – The Elegant Choice
If you’re looking for fine dining that still delivers on flavor, Taj is the place.
The dishes here are plated beautifully, but don’t let the fancy presentation fool you—the flavors are bold and authentic.
Ambiance
Elegant, stylish, and perfect for a date night or special occasion.
The deep red and gold hues give it a classic Indian vibe, while the soft sitar music in the background completes the experience.
Service
Absolutely top-tier.
The servers know the menu inside out and will happily customize spice levels to match your preference.
Affordability
It’s on the pricier side—expect to spend 150-200 RON for two.
Must Try
✅ Masala Fish – Perfectly grilled, smoky, and packed with spice.
✅ Paneer Tikka – Soft, charred, and full of deep, rich flavors.
✅ Garlic Butter Naan – Pillowy and soaked in buttery goodness.
4. Karishma Restaurant – The Best Budget-Friendly Spot
If you want great desi food on a budget, Karishma is your go-to.
It’s no-frills, no fancy plating—just good, honest food.
Ambiance
Simple, nothing too fancy, but the food makes up for it.
Service
Quick, efficient, and straight to the point.
Affordability
One of the cheapest on this list. Expect around 100 RON for two.
Must Try
✅ Vegetarian Thali – A little bit of everything, perfect for indecisive eaters.
✅ Chicken Curry – Classic, rich, and made with love.
✅ Aloo Paratha – Flaky, buttery, and stuffed with perfectly spiced potatoes.
5. Berestroika Beer Revolution! – The Wild Card
A craft brewery that serves killer Indian food? Sounds weird, but it works.
If you want something different, this is your spot.
Ambiance
Rustic, modern, and perfect for a casual night out.
Service
Super friendly and insanely knowledgeable about beer pairings.
Affordability
Around 140-180 RON for two, especially if you’re trying out their craft beers.
Must Try
✅ Samosas – Crispy, golden perfection.
✅ Butter Masala Paneer – Rich, creamy, and indulgent.
✅ House-Brewed IPA – Pairs surprisingly well with spicy food.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Eat First?
Finding authentic desi food in Bucharest isn’t easy, but if you know where to go, you’re in for a treat.
If you’re craving home-style Pakistani food, Sana’s Kitchen Hut is the clear winner—flavor-packed dishes, cozy ambiance, and the best Butter Chicken Boneless in town.
For biryani lovers, Haveli is your go-to.
If you want fine dining with bold flavors, Taj Indian Cuisine won’t disappoint.
Looking for a budget-friendly, no-frills option? Karishma is the place.
And if you’re in the mood for something unique, Berestroika Beer Revolution! combines Indian food with craft beer—a pairing that works surprisingly well.
Whichever spot you choose, prepare for a flavor-packed experience.
