15 Best Indian Restaurants in Switzerland for Travelers

Switzerland, with its snow-capped Alps, pristine lakes, and charming towns, is a feast for the senses. But for the millions of Indian tourists, expats, and food lovers longing for a taste of home, one question often arises:

“Where can you find the best Indian restaurant in Switzerland?”

Fortunately, Swiss cities from Zurich to Geneva, Lucerne to Interlaken, host a surprising number of quality Indian restaurants that maintain the balance between authenticity and local preferences. In this post, we’ll journey city-by-city, explore standout restaurants, share insider tips, and help you plan a mouth-watering Indian food crawl on your Swiss trip.

This is your ultimate guide to Indian restaurants in Switzerland in 2025, covering best Indian restaurants Switzerland, Indian cuisine in Switzerland, authentic Indian food Swiss cities, and more.

What Makes a “Best” Indian Restaurants in Switzerland?

Before diving into names, let’s clarify criteria. What makes an Indian restaurant stand out, especially in a foreign land like Switzerland?

• Authenticity vs. adaptation: Maintaining genuine Indian flavors, spice levels, and cooking methods (tandoor, dhungar, tempering) while appreciating Swiss sourcing constraints.
• Diversity on the menu: Offering North Indian, South Indian, regional (Gujarati, Bengali, Punjabi, Chettinad, etc.), vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
• Ambience & service: Warm hospitality, Indian-inspired décor, comfortable seating, and friendly staff who understand customization (spice level, dietary restrictions).
• Consistency & value: Consistent quality across visits; reasonable price-to-quality ratio given Swiss cost of dining.
• Location & access: Proximity to major tourist hubs or transit points is a plus, especially for travellers.
• Reputation & reviews: Local reviews, foodie blogs, Michelin guide listings, and word-of-mouth among Indian communities.

With these in mind, let’s explore the Swiss cities and their Indian restaurant gems.

If Switzerland is just one stop on your journey, don’t miss our handpicked Europe Tour Packages from India designed for families, couples, and solo travelers. From the romantic canals of Venice to the historic streets of Paris, our Europe tours offer customized itineraries, Indian meal options, and visa assistance for a smooth travel experience.

City-by-City Guide: Best Indian Restaurants in Switzerland

I’ve grouped by major Swiss cities (and some smaller ones) in which Indian food lovers tend to gravitate. For each, I note specialties, tips, and what makes them remarkable.

🇨🇭 Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland’s financial and cultural hub, also hosts one of the densest clusters of Indian restaurants you’ll find outside India. Many are in neighborhoods like Oerlikon, along busy streets, or near transit hubs. Swiss‑level expectations for timing, presentation, and hygiene are high, and Indian restaurants here often feel the pressure to deliver as polished experiences.

1. Namaste Oerlikon

• 📍 Address: Ellen-Widmann-Weg 6, 8050 Zürich
• ⭐ Why Famous: A favorite for authentic Indian dishes and vegetarian-friendly menus.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhani, Tandoori Chicken, Mango Lass

Known for a cozy atmosphere and large buffet options, especially popular with tourists near Oerlikon station. A favorite among travelers entering or staying near Oerlikon, Namaste Oerlikon is frequently recommended as a reliable “first Indian meal in Switzerland.” Its strengths lie in consistency, a broad menu, and approachable portion sizes. Their lunch buffet is especially useful for sampling many dishes without the risk of ordering something you don’t like.

One tip: the vegan/vegetarian side does not get overshadowed here; the effort to maintain varied plant-based curries is often cited by patrons.

2. Delhi House of Best Curry

• 📍 Address: Zypressenstrasse 52, 8004 Zürich
• ⭐ Why Famous: A highly rated neighborhood favorite with bold North Indian flavors.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Chicken Tikka, Veg Thali, Shammi Kebab

Serves classic North Indian comfort food in a relaxed, modern setting. Here you’ll feel a stronger “home food” vibe. Delhi House doesn’t always aim for ultra-fine dining, but for many Indians in Zurich it’s a comfort point: straightforward, honest, and flexible with spice requests. Their Thali special or fixed‑menu specials are good bets. On social media and food review forums, diners often mention that the staff are patient when you ask for “more green chili” or “less oil” – a sign that they are accustomed to discerning Indian guests.

3. Tamarind Hill

• 📍 Address: Schaffhauserstrasse 306, 8050 Zürich
• ⭐ Why Famous: For its stylish ambiance and regional Indian culinary diversity.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Chicken Chettinad, Malabari Fish Curry, Lamb Rogan Josh

Fine dining Indian experience with rich regional flavors and top-tier service. This restaurant appeals to those wanting an upgraded Indian dining night. The interior is more refined, the plating more deliberate, and the menu includes regional dishes (beyond just the usual North Indian staples), for example Malabari fish or Chettinad-style gravies. If your Swiss travel day demands a special dinner (say, anniversary, or a “nice meal after a long trek”), Tamarind Hill is one to consider.

4. Tadka Indian Restaurant

• 📍 Address: Ackerstrasse 56, 8005 Zürich
• ⭐ Why Famous: A lively casual dining spot with quality meals at fair prices.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Chicken Curry, Mixed Vegetable Curry, Garlic Naan

Street-view glass exterior with a comfortable, social vibe for lunch or dinner. Tadka strikes a balance between casual and good quality. Large glass windows, relaxed seating, and a menu with a little bit of everything makes it good for a spontaneous stop. Locals and expats mention its evening buffet as a highlight. In Zurich’s online communities, many say “Tadka (I’ve tried them all, best so far)… the staff are friendly.” Reddit

5. Indian BBQ Zurich

• 📍 Address: Brauerstrasse 78, 8004 Zürich
• ⭐ Why Famous: Specializes in tandoori grills and kebabs.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Seekh Kebab, Tandoori Mix Platter, Chicken Tikka Masala

Popular among meat lovers, casual vibe, generous portions. While not as widely documented, Indian BBQ outlets (or “grill & tandoor” specialty places) hold a special place for meat lovers. In Zurich, Indian BBQ restaurants offer things like mixed kebab platters, smoky flavors, and open grills. For someone craving char and texture (beyond creamy curries), this is a compelling alternative.

🇨🇭 Geneva

Geneva’s international character (diplomats, UN, multinational firms) infuses its food scene with high standards—but also high prices. Indian restaurants in Geneva must compete with French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Chinese, etc. Some reviews mention that Indian restaurants sometimes tone down spice to cater to wider palates.

6. Indian Bites

• 📍 Address: Rue Pradier 6, 1201 Geneva
• ⭐ Why Famous: Convenient location and authentic menu.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Veg Biryani, Chicken Tikka, Mango Lassi

Friendly service with dine-in and takeout. Highly rated by locals. Located centrally, Indian Bites is often praised in Swiss‑India foodie circles. In 2024, Reddit users wrote:

“Indian Bites near the train station in Geneva is one of the good ones I’ve tried in GVA.” Reddit

This kind of testimonial carries weight for travelers looking for reliable flavor. They tend to offer both classics and occasional regional specials, and are relatively consistent in service and quantity.

7. Le Safran

• 📍 Address: Boulevard Carl-Vogt 62, 1205 Genève
• ⭐ Why Famous: Offers refined Indian cuisine with a European twist.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Vegetarian Thali, Lamb Korma, Paneer Jalfrezi

Elegant dining setup with gourmet lunch platters and a wide wine selection. One of the more polished Indian options in Geneva. Reviewers highlight the “menu du jour” (plat du jour) at CHF 19, which includes rice, naan, protein, and sides, a balanced lunch package.
The naan is often praised as “fluffy, warm, and soft.” But some complaints note slow service or occasional inconsistencies in meat texture.
In general, Le Safran sits at the nicer end of the Indian restaurant scale in Geneva, great for a worthwhile dining experience when you don’t mind slightly steeper prices.

8. Café Gandhi

📍 Address: Rue de Lausanne 58, 1202 Genève

⭐ Why Famous: Known for dependable Indian staples at good prices.

🍛 Best Dishes: Chicken Curry, Veg Thali, Lamb Saagwala

A simple, home-style café with a loyal fan base. Café Gandhi describes itself as “the first Indian restaurant dedicated to the famous Thali.” After its renovation, the ambiance was refreshed with simpler design elements and a renovated bar in turquoise blue tones. The restaurant offers not only dine‑in, but also catering services. It’s well rated – users on TheFork give it a 9.4 / 10 for quality, service, and atmosphere.

9. The Indus

• 📍 Address: Rue de Montbrillant 3, 1201 Genève
• ⭐ Why Famous: Fusion-style Indian meals and attractive interiors.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Fish Curry, Butter Chicken, Chana Masala

Combines Swiss hospitality with Indian culinary art. The Indus is a mid‑ to upper‑tier Indian restaurant in Geneva that strives to present a full spectrum of Indian cuisine, from vegetarian to meat to seafood, across regions. They emphasize use of a charcoal tandoor for many grilled items, this gives authenticity in flavor. Their dining capacity is about 70 seats.

🇨🇭 Lucerne

10. Dosa House

• 📍 Address: Baselstrasse 31, 6003 Luzern
• ⭐ Why Famous: One of the few authentic South Indian restaurants in the region.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Masala Dosa, Sambar, Coconut Chutney

A local gem for vegetarian South Indian food, affordable and casual. A standout especially for vegetarians and South Indian food lovers. Its menu of dosa, sambar, chutneys, and idli is a refreshing change from heavy gravies. Because fewer competitors offer South Indian fare in Lucerne, Dosa House often gets high praise for delivering what it does well.

11. Taj Palace Lucerne

• 📍 Address: Hertensteinstrasse 34, 6004 Luzern
• ⭐ Why Famous: Ideal for family meals and group dinners.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Curry, Dal Makhani

Comfortable atmosphere with authentic décor and extensive menu. This is the “safe bet” Indian restaurant in Lucerne. You can order what you’d expect (curries, naan, tandoori meats) and expect nothing too experimental. It works well when traveling in a mixed group (veg + nonveg) or when you want familiarity rather than culinary surprises.

🇨🇭 Basel

12. Anjappar Chettinad

• 📍 Address: Schwarzwaldallee 175, 4058 Basel
• ⭐ Why Famous: The go-to place for spicy South Indian Chettinad dishes.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Mutton Chettinad, Dosa, Chicken 65

Basel’s best South Indian chain restaurant. Bold flavors and spice-forward menu. Anjappar is well known in India for its Chettinad menu. In Basel, the branch carries that flavor heritage. If you want bold, spicy South Indian dishes, peppered, coconut-forward, with curry leaves, Anjappar is your best bet in Basel. Many Swiss-Indian circles recommend it as the most authentic South Indian in the region.

🇨🇭 Interlaken

13. Maha Lakshmi Indian Restaurant

• 📍 Address: Höheweg 125, 3800 Interlaken
• ⭐ Why Famous: Tourist-friendly Indian restaurant near scenic spots.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Veg Curry, Chicken Masala, Rice & Naan Combos

Cozy location for those traveling through the mountains. Good lunch thalis. Given its location near Interlaken’s tourist circuit, Maha Lakshmi is often picked for convenience. Tourists share that it’s good for lunch or dinner after mountain treks. It may not match city restaurants in complexity, but it delivers solid Indian flavors when you’re far from major urban centers.

🇨🇭 Gstaad

14. Mango Restaurant

• 📍 Address: Viktoriastrasse 1, 3780 Gstaad
• ⭐ Why Famous: An Indian food oasis in an alpine resort town.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Lamb Rogan Josh, Kerala Fish Curry, Paneer Dishes

Great for ski-season comfort food, with vegan/gluten-free choices. This place is almost an oasis, a reminder of home in snowy resorts. For skiers or hikers returning from the slopes, Mango’s menu offers comfort. The focus on vegetarian and gluten-free options is appreciated, and their seafood / fish curries (e.g. Kerala Prawn) are a plus in a place where seafood isn’t always guaranteed.

🇨🇭 Vevey

15. Palais Indien

• 📍 Address: Rue des Deux-Marchés 15, 1800 Vevey
• ⭐ Why Famous: Hidden gem with home-style meals and great value.
• 🍛 Best Dishes: Garlic Naan, Chicken Korma, Chana Masala

Small and friendly, frequented by locals and Indian expats. Smaller, less flashy, but beloved by locals and regulars. It’s not usually in big tourist guides, but if you’re in Vevey (on Lake Geneva), its homey style, friendly service, and garlic naan are frequently mentioned in traveler forums.

Switzerland Map & Itinerary Suggestions

If your Swiss itinerary spans, say, Zurich → Lucerne → Interlaken → Geneva, here’s a suggested crawl:

Tip: Reserve ahead, especially in larger cities (Zurich, Geneva) during peak tourist seasons (summer, Dec–Feb). Some Indian restaurants also offer weekend buffets or lunch deals, ideal for trying multiple dishes.

Signature Dishes & What to Try in Indian Restaurants in Switzerland

When you step into a good Indian restaurant in Switzerland, here are must-try dishes (if available) to test authenticity and delight:

• Butter Chicken / Murgh Makhani: A benchmark test, if the sauce is creamy, tomato-forward, and rich, it’s a good sign.
• Tandoori / Grill platters: Seek items cooked in a clay oven; they tend to preserve flavor.
• Dal Makhani / Dal Tadka: A good test of lentil cooking finesse.
• Paneer dishes: Paneer butter masala, palak paneer, matar paneer.
• Biryani / Pulao: Fragrant rice with spices, meat or vegetables.
• South Indian fare: Dosa, idli, sambar, rasam (especially at places like Dosa House or Anjappar).
• Regional specialities: Chettinad, Malabar, Hyderabadi biryani, etc., where available.
• Indian breads: Naan, garlic naan, roti, paratha, kulcha.
• Chaats & street food: Pani puri, aloo chaat, samosa, papdi chaat.
• Desserts & drinks: Gulab jamun, ras malai, kulfi, mango lassi, masala chai.

Always ask for spice level “Indian spicy” if you prefer a spicier kick (many places tone it down for Swiss palates).

Dining Tips & Indian Food Travel Hacks in Switzerland

Here are practical tips to ensure your Indian dining experience in Switzerland is smooth and satisfying:

1. Book in advance
   Swiss restaurants may have limited capacity, especially Indian ones in popular areas. Make reservations for dinner, especially in Zurich and Geneva.
2. Understand costing & tipping
   Switzerland is expensive. Indian restaurant prices can be high, so expect CHF 30–60 per person for a full meal (starter + main + bread + drink). Service charge is often included, but rounding up 5–10% is appreciated.
3. Spice calibration
   Many restaurants offer multiple spice levels. Specify “Indian spicy” if you want authentic heat. If unsure, start medium and ask for extra green chilies or chili sauce.
4. Ask about vegetarian & vegan options
   Due to demand, many Indian restaurants in Switzerland now list vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Always confirm ingredients, especially for items like paneer, ghee, or masalas.
5. Water & drinks
   Tap water in Switzerland is typically safe, but some restaurants may not serve it for free. Politely ask. Also, many Indian restaurants pair well with Indian drinks (lassi, chai) or Swiss/local beverages.
6. Buffet & lunch deals
   Many Indian places offer lunch buffets (all-you-can-eat) which are good for sampling. Check weekend or midweek offers.
7. Timing your meal
   Lunch is typically between 11:30–14:00; dinner 18:30–22:00. Some restaurant kitchens may close between lunch and dinner. Check opening hours in advance.
8. Communicate preferences
   Swiss staff may not always understand Indian acronyms or spice jargon. Be clear, “no garlic,” “nut-free,” “less oil,” etc.
9. Mid-trip detox
   After enjoying rich curries, balance your palate with Swiss specialties like fondue, fresh salad, or simply fresh mountain air and apple strudel.

Real Stories & Foodie Voices for Best Resturants in Switzerland

It’s one thing to list restaurants; it’s another to hear from those who’ve tried them.

• A Reddit user in Zurich said: “IndianBBQ and Delhi house of best curry for north Indian food like butter chicken, chicken Tikka, naan etc.” Reddit
• Another noted about Geneva: “The Bombay, in Geneva, rue de Berne … is good and reasonably priced.” Reddit
  “Palais Indien in Vevey … garlic naans are nice.” Reddit
• On SwissInfo’s guide: “Indian restaurants can be found in most Swiss cities and towns. However, be aware that there are many kinds that cater to different tastes.” SWI swissinfo.ch

These voices remind us: while many Indian restaurants exist, consistency, authenticity, and passion vary, and the ones listed above score high in those aspects.

Spotlight: Top Picks by Category for Top Indian Restaurants in Switzerland

To help you narrow down, here are top picks based on preferences:

Cultural & Travel: Why Indian Food on Swiss Soil?

Understanding how Indian cuisine landed and adapted in Switzerland adds depth to your food journey.

• Migration & diaspora: Indian professionals, students, and their families have settled in Swiss cities over decades, fueling demand for Indian cuisine.
• Culinary curiosity: Swiss locals, as well as international visitors, often seek diversity in cuisine, leading restaurants to experiment and adapt.
• Ingredient sourcing: Many Indian restaurants in Switzerland import key spices or order specialty items, while supplementing with Swiss-sourced fresh produce.
• Adaptation to taste: Some restaurants tone down heat or rich oil content to suit Swiss palates, making “Swiss-Indian fusion” an emerging niche.
• Food tourism synergy: Travelers exploring the Alps or Swiss cities often welcome a familiar flavor break in their itineraries.

An interesting footnote: Riz Casimir is a Swiss creation influenced by Indian curry tradition, rice with a creamy curry‑like sauce and fruit, often served in Swiss homes during the mid-20th century. Wikipedia

So, when you dine Indian in Switzerland, you’re part of a deeper cultural and culinary dialogue.

Sample 7-Day Switzerland Itinerary with Indian food

Here’s how you can weave Indian restaurant stops into a 7-day Switzerland trip:

This lets you balance Swiss exploration (lakes, mountains, old towns) with comforting Indian food breaks.

Key Takeaways & Final Suggestions for top Indian Resaurants in Switzerland

• Switzerland may not be the first place you associate with Indian food, but the Indian diaspora, culinary entrepreneurs, and cross-cultural curiosity have given rise to many solid Indian restaurants.
• Zurich and Geneva are hotspots with multiple high-quality options. Lucerne and alpine resort towns bring a quieter, more intimate flavor.
• Don’t expect every Indian restaurant to hit “home-cooked heat, some adaptation happens. But many listed above come very close.
• Use midweek lunch buffets to sample variety and save cost. Reserve for dinners in major cities.
• Always ask about vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options, and specify spice preferences.
• If you’re traveling across Swiss cities, you can plan your route to include one Indian restaurant every city, making Indian food a comforting thread through your Swiss adventure.

Switzerland’s alpine panoramas will dazzle your eyes; may its Indian restaurants dazzle your taste buds.

FAQ’s Regarding Best Indian Restaurants in Switzerland

What are the best Indian restaurants in Switzerland?

Answer:
Some of the best Indian restaurants in Switzerland include Namaste Oerlikon and Tamarind Hill in Zurich, Indian Bites and Le Safran in Geneva, Dosa House in Lucerne, Maha Lakshmi in Interlaken, and Mango Restaurant in Gstaad. Each offers a unique blend of authentic Indian flavors, regional diversity, and traveler-friendly ambiance.

Are there any vegetarian Indian restaurants in Switzerland?

Answer:
Yes! Switzerland offers many excellent vegetarian Indian restaurants. Saravanaa Bhavan in Zurich is a 100% vegetarian South Indian chain. Dosa House in Lucerne is another top pick for vegetarian food lovers, specializing in dosa, idli, and sambar. Most Indian restaurants in major Swiss cities like Geneva and Basel also have dedicated vegetarian sections on their menus.

Where can I find South Indian food in Switzerland?

Answer:
For authentic South Indian food in Switzerland, visit Dosa House in Lucerne or Anjappar Chettinad in Basel. In Zurich, Saravanaa Bhavan offers dosas, vadas, pongal, and other classics. These restaurants serve traditional South Indian dishes like masala dosa, idli, sambar, and Chettinad-style spicy gravies.

Which Indian restaurants in Switzerland are halal-friendly?

Answer:
Many Indian restaurants in Switzerland serve halal food. Darbar in Zurich and The Indus in Geneva both clearly label themselves as halal-friendly. It’s always best to confirm with the restaurant directly or check their website or TheFork page for updated halal certification.

Are there Indian restaurants near Interlaken and Lucerne?

Answer:
Yes, Interlaken has Indian restaurants like Maha Lakshmi, which is very popular among tourists. In Lucerne, Dosa House and Taj Palace are two top-rated Indian dining spots offering both North and South Indian menus.

Do Indian restaurants in Switzerland offer take-away or delivery?

Answer:
Most Indian restaurants in Switzerland offer take-away, and many partner with delivery apps like Uber Eats, Just Eat, or Smood. For example, Delhi House of Best Curry in Zurich and Indian Bites in Geneva both offer takeaway and delivery options. Always check their official website or local delivery platforms for availability.

Are Indian restaurants in Switzerland expensive?

Answer:
Swiss dining in general can be pricey, and Indian restaurants are no exception. A typical meal at a mid-range Indian restaurant in Zurich or Geneva can cost CHF 25–40 per person. However, lunch deals and thali combos are often more affordable, ranging from CHF 15–20.

Which Indian restaurant in Switzerland has the best biryani?

Answer:
Many Indian restaurants serve biryani, but Anjappar Chettinad in Basel is highly praised for its authentic South Indian-style mutton and chicken biryanis. Indian Bites in Geneva and Namaste Oerlikon in Zurich also receive good reviews for their flavorful biryani offerings.

Do Indian restaurants in Switzerland serve alcohol?

Answer:
Yes, many Indian restaurants in Switzerland are licensed to serve alcohol. For example, Tamarind Hill in Zurich and Le Safran in Geneva offer wine and beer menus to complement the food. Others may not serve alcohol but allow BYOB (bring your own bottle) – it’s best to check in advance.

Can I get Indian food near tourist areas in Switzerland?

Answer:
Absolutely. Most major tourist destinations have at least one Indian restaurant nearby. Whether you’re visiting the Lake Geneva promenade, Lucerne’s Chapel Bridge, or the mountain views of Interlaken, you’ll find an Indian restaurant within walking distance or a short ride away.

Is it easy to find vegan Indian food in Switzerland?

Answer:
Yes. Indian cuisine naturally includes many vegan options like chana masala, aloo gobi, bhindi masala, and dal tadka. Restaurants like Namaste Oerlikon, Saravanaa Bhavan, and Indian Bites clearly label vegan items on their menu and often adjust dishes to meet vegan requirements.

Do I need to make a reservation at Indian restaurants in Switzerland?

Answer:
Reservations are highly recommended, especially in big cities like Zurich and Geneva during weekends or holidays. Restaurants such as The Indus, Le Safran, and Tamarind Hill often fill up during peak hours. Use platforms like TheFork.ch or call directly to secure a table.