In the heart of the Netherlands lies a hidden culinary treasure – Hilversum, affectionately known as the ‘Garden City.’ Beyond its fame as a broadcasting hub and architectural wonders like the Dutch Institute for Sound and Vision, Hilversum offers a green oasis with places like Hoorneboegse Heide. But for the food enthusiast, the true allure of Hilversum lies in its vibrant Indian culinary scene, boasting some of the Best Indian Restaurants in Hilversum.

A Culinary Adventure in the Garden City”

These Indian eateries in Hilversum shine with their fusion of traditional and contemporary, serving dishes that satisfy both the adventurous and the traditional palate. The warm, inviting ambiance in each restaurant enhances the dining experience, making every meal memorable.

Hilversum’s Indian cuisine scene is a hidden gem in the Netherlands, offering a taste of India’s rich culinary diversity. So, on your visit to this picturesque city, embark on this spice-infused culinary adventure – it’s an experience that food lovers should not miss. Here are my top 5 picks:

1.  Delhi Darbaar Indiaas Restaurant

(CG Score: 8.4 | The Fork: 9.0)

Delhi Darbaar tops the list in Hilversum, dishing out street food and tandoor gems that echo Delhi’s bustling bazaars. Situated in the lively heart of Havenstraat, the ambiance buzzes with a vibe straight out of Delhi, making every bite an adventure.

With a high note of 9.0 on The Fork, some diners have hit a few sour notes over English communication and discount confusion. But hey, we’re here for the spice symphony on our plates, not for a chit-chat in Shakespeare’s tongue or a math quiz on percentages.

Delhi Darbaar isn’t just a meal, it’s the top-billed act for a culinary show you don’t want to miss. Vegetarians, you may want to scout for a different scene, but meat lovers, prepare for a standing ovation.

CG Insights: If the Tandoori Deluxe Menu were a Bollywood star, it would be winning awards. The tandoor dishes are a fiery spectacle. et, for the vegetarians, it may feel like a missed opportunity in an otherwise meaty plot. And while the flavors are in harmony, the service sometimes lacks that spark of enthusiasm that could elevate the dining experience from good to unforgettable.

Must-Try:

  • The Tandoori Deluxe Menu – where every bite is like a drumroll on your taste palette.

 

 

Address: Havenstraat 75, 1211 KH Hilversum

 

2. Surya: A Fusion of Indian and Nepalese Delights

(CG Score: 8.3 | The Fork: Not Listed)

Surya, nestled in Hilversum, takes the spotlight as our second top pick among the best Indian restaurants in town. This restaurant beautifully marries the flavours of Indian and Nepalese cuisines, offering a truly unique dining experience. While it may not have made it onto The Fork’s radar, our CurryGuru exploration paints a more detailed picture.

CG Insights: Surya has carved a niche for itself with a diverse menu that caters to traditional and adventurous tastes alike. The cozy ambiance and attentive staff add to its charm, making each visit memorable. With a CG score of 8.3, it consistently delivers quality. However, we have noted occasional variations in taste and a need for better spice balance. The slight chewiness in the lamb dishes has also been experienced.

In essence, Surya brings together flavors from two distinct regions, creating a delightful fusion. It offers a wide range of choices for vegetarians. While it consistently delivers quality, especially in its meat and fish dishes, occasional variations in taste and spice balance remind us that culinary journeys can have their twists and turns.

Must-Try: 

  • Grilled Paneer Masala (Vegetarian) – Grilled paneer cheese served in a coconut and honey sauce) 
  • Chicken Biryani – Aromatic rice dish with tender chicken and fragrant spices.

Address: Langestraat 126, 1211 HC Hilversum

 
 

3. Shanthy

(CG Score: 8.1 | The Fork: 9.6)

Shanthy in Hilversum, ranking third on our list, offers a unique blend of Indian and Sri Lankan flavours. Despite its high score of 9.6 on The Fork, which raises eyebrows, our CurryGuru experience paints a more nuanced picture.

CG Insights: While Shanthy excels in creating a welcoming atmosphere with its attentive service, the culinary journey, especially for vegetarians, hits a few bumps. A common thread in our reviews points to a lack of balance and variety in the spices used, leading to a similar taste profile across different dishes. And a cardinal rule in Indian dining: Papadams should be crisp, never chewy – a miss we couldn’t overlook.

In essence, Shanthy stands out for its service and unique fusion approach. However, for those seeking a diverse spice experience, particularly among vegetarian options, it might leave something to be desired. Despite its high The Fork rating, our CG score of 8.1 reflects these subtleties in taste and quality.

Must-Try:

  • Shanthy’s Lamb Pasanda – a symphony of flavours, combining the richness of ground cashews, coconut, and cream with a sauvignon blanc infusion.
  • Tiger Prawn Malayan Special – a mildly spicy sauce crafted from onions, tomatoes, garlic, and a generous dash of Malibu coconut liqueur. 

Address: Havenstraat 36, 1211KM Hilversum

4. India Poort: A Gateway to Indian Delights

(CG Score: 8.1 | The Fork: 9.4)

4th on the list is “India Poort,” the highly regarded Indian restaurant in Hilversum. It comes recommended for its delectable traditional Indian dishes and impeccable service, making it a preferred choice for Indian cuisine enthusiasts in the area. 

CG Insights: Surprising us yet again, The Fork bestows an impressive 9.4 rating on India Poort (our eyebrows are getting quite the workout at CurryGuru). While the restaurant excels in presentation, the culinary journey occasionally takes an unexpected detour when it comes to taste. And speaking of surprises, don’t judge this book by its cover – India Poort’s small exterior conceals charming decor. While they’ve mastered the art of elegant plating, the flavors sometimes play hide and seek. Vegetarians, be warned, your options may be a tad limited. As for patience, some diners have had to put theirs to the test due to longer wait times. Nevertheless, the restaurant’s snug size only adds to its cozy charm.

Must-Try:

  • Maccher Jhol, a green chili, tomato paste, and fresh coriander-infused sea bass curry from West Bengal.
  • Chicken Rezala, a chef’s creation with aromatic chicken curry from Dhaka, featuring yogurt, tomato, and coriander.
 
 

5. Ganesha: Where Choices Abound

(CG Score: 8.0 | The Fork: 9.3)

Ganesha, nestled in the heart of Hilversum, is our last pick among the finest Indian restaurants in town. This establishment boasts an impressive array of Indian culinary delights, reflected in its remarkable 9.3 score on TheFork (eyebrows raised). However, our CurryGuru (CG) evaluation unveils a more nuanced perspective.

CG Insights: CG Insights: Ganesha’s extensive menu, with a whopping 128 items, is both a marvel and a maze for diners. While the abundance of choices is impressive, it can also lead to decision-making dilemmas. Customers frequently comment on the complexity of navigating such a vast menu. Our CG score, while appearing cautious, mirrors a significant concern: when a restaurant offers an overwhelming number of dishes, there’s a risk that they may all start to taste similar. Additionally, we noticed that the Tandoor Mix Grill could benefit from a reduction in honey, as the overall taste leans towards the sweeter side. Beyond menu size, Ganesha has garnered praise for its flavourful and well-spiced dishes, served in an inviting setting. Customers appreciate the reasonable prices and the hospitable staff, and discounts are available for savvy diners looking for a great deal.

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Lamb Madras: Juicy lamb prepared in a spicy Madras curry with coconut milk, tamarind, and exotic spices.
  • Paneer Jal Firezi: For our vegetarian diners, the Paneer Jal Firezi is a must-try. Enjoy the fiery charm of this dish, where paneer meets a burst of flavours and spices.

 

Address: Kampstraat 21, 1211 GD Hilversum