Nadu
Valentine Correia · 223 Google reviewsNadu — clean, consistent indian in Lincoln Park. Polished but not pretentious. The bartender knows what they're doing. "I loved all six of them but the standout was definitely the Bihari kabab—perfectly spicy with the right" — Thomas Khongmaly
What 367 diners keep saying
What 367 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Words cannot fully express the joy it was to spend the evening at Nadu. From the moment you walk through the door you are surrounded with a feeling of warmth and kindness. Not knowing much about Indian cuisine, I was very eager to try their food. Our waiter did an amazing job describing the dishes, in fact I could almost taste the dish from how he described them. I've travelled abroad for over 25 years and have eaten at many fine restaurants and NONE OF THEM impressed me more than the food at Nadu. Chef Krishna even came to our table to further describe the dishes. The layers of spice and flavors has to be experienced in person. Every dish was unique and complimented the dish before. After trying 5 of their entrees, (yes, I said 5😉), there is no way I could pick a favorite. I can honestly that this was the finest dining experience I have had anywhere in the world. For anyone reading this is a "foodie", don't be surprise if Nadu becomes as hard to get into as the French Laundry. I've eaten there many times and if I had choose, it would be Nadu every time. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to be transported to India on a culinary journey. Five-stars is not enough”
“Great atmosphere! All items we tried were very tasty. The service was friendly! We tried a mix of vegetarian and non vegetarian items and all were very good. The portion was also not bad. Overall a very pleasant dining experience!”
“I have been dreaming of visiting Nadu in Chicago for so long, and our date night there finally blew us away! First things first: reservations are a must because this gem is wildly popular. From the moment we walked in, the service was a perfect 100/10. My husband was welcomed with champagne, and I got the most refreshing rose non-alcoholic drink—so elegant. We chose the tasting menu, and every bite was a masterpiece. The papad with chutneys was divine, and that yogurt-based kanji drink was like a hug of flavor—earthy and comforting. The small plates were a dream: the vada pav took us straight to Mumbai, and the chili fish fry was bold and unforgettable. Then, for the big plates, the murg makhani was tender perfection, and the paneer dish was rich, nutty, and so vibrant. And let me just say—the naan! I know it sounds wild, but their naan was life-changing. We had both the chili naan and garlic naan—crisp, airy, and just bursting with flavor. We also got a side of dal makhani, which once again blew us away. The whole evening was a symphony of tastes, and it all came together so beautifully. I have to give the biggest round of applause to the chef and team who orchestrated this magical evening. Indian food can be so hard to master, especially in a city as diverse as Chicago—but they did it flawlessly. The combination of outstanding service, a stunning ambiance, and a menu that sings of India’s vibrant flavors—this is now my favorite restaurant in Chicago. Every dollar spent was a joy, and I will be shouting about Nadu to everyone I know. Go, and thank me later!”
“We ordered tasting menu. My husband and I went for tasting menu which is 60 $ per individual We get papad and radar for both. Small plates - we could choose one dish So I ordered : tangra chili fish( crispy fried barramundi). Good subtle indo Chinese flavor. The ingredients were super fresh that’s what I could feel while having every bite My husband ordered: lamb gilafi seekh kebab- this was good not juicy or addictive where you could eat more and more because the spices were too strong Supplement course : we didn’t order any because it was extra charge Then goes to selecting one fish in large plates: I chose patra no fish: this dish is unique south Indian basic cuisine where it is steamed in banana leaf with a green spice ( hariyali masala) the fish was on point and very good. My husband ordered murgh makhani: this was slightly sweeter side curry and milder one not too spicy specifically for non Asian so they could enjoy chicken makhani too. It is good but in slightly sweeter end. Sides we ordered basmati rice and naan In deserts : the best one among the three is mawa cake I ordered tutti fruitti cassata - different layer of ice cream. This is made in kitchen in restaurant too I gyess . The flavors were different when someone orders/ purchases from store brought”
“I've been here three times now and have gotten to enjoy different things each time!! The paneer ghotala is delicious, and the vegetarian tasting menu is also great. The drinks are quality as well. Would definitely keep coming back. I recommend it to all my friends.”
“Nothing short of amazing!! While not Michelin Guide star level the experience was memorable so worth the guide's mention. The food was well prepared, creative, approachable and delicious. The non alcoholic drinks were tasty and unique. Do not miss the prawns!!! The service was attentive and appropriately informative and the decor was comfortable and inviting.”
“Food dishes are very good and flavorful. Service can be slow because how busy how are. We loved all the restaurants week menus. Drinks and cocktails were delicious and interesting”
“Nadu is a standout Indian restaurant in Lincoln Park, Chicago, especially if you enjoy regional Indian cuisine with bold flavors and plenty of vegetarian-friendly options. We went as a group of four and ordered almost the entire vegetarian menu—twelve food items along with four mocktails—which made it easy to experience the range of what the kitchen offers. The menu draws inspiration from different Indian states, and the flavors are confident and unapologetic throughout. Our favorite dishes were the Paneer Ghotala, Mushroom Galawat, and Benne Dosa, all of which really stood out for their balance, depth of flavor, and execution. While not every dish was equally memorable, the overall experience was strong and thoughtfully put together. The decor is beautiful and Indian-inspired, giving the space a modern yet rooted feel, and the Lincoln Park location makes it a great option for a relaxed dinner out. Service was smooth, efficient, and well-paced. Overall, Nadu is a solid 4.5-star experience and a great choice in Chicago if you’re looking to explore regional Indian food with excellent vegetarian options—especially when dining with a group and wanting to try a variety of dishes.”
“This was overall an amazing experience. Everything from atmosphere to quality of food to service. In terms of fine dining Indian food. I feel this restaurant competes with other highly rated restaurants. The dishes are very flavorful. The portion sizes are spot on and the cocktails are fantastic. I had the classic butter chicken dish and it was one of the best. The entire group decided to do the tasting menu, which overall is a good experience for the price point. There’s also an option to order à la cart.”
“Food and atmosphere is fantastic, very delicious, absolutely loved it!! Great staff too!”
“We loved Nadu. Delicious food. Cozy ambiance. Decent service. Food tasted legit and they offer an elevated experience. The mocktails were delicious and unique. The cocktails were just okay. Mostly things like old fashions and margaritas with new names. But it was so amazing to try Indian food from across the country all in one dinner.”
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