Indian food straddles that unique line between being great comfort food and amazingly delicious high-end restaurant food. 

These three Indian restaurants give you both of those experiences in one place, and provide stellar service, quality dishes, and a cozy atmosphere. 

Rasika

Penn Quarter: 633 D Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20004
West End: 1190 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20037

Rasika is probably the best Indian restaurant in Washington, D.C. It’s got everything from great food to a lively crowd, to even an extensive wine selection. Order at least three orders of the Palak Chaat appetizer. Trust me: you will not be disappointed and will regret not ordering more. It’s fried spinach with an aioli sauce, sautéed onions, and some garnish, and it is to die for. 

Of course, the classic Tikka Masala entrée dish is delicious, but so is the curried lamb. Parooze everything on the menu and don’t forget to order a side of garlic naan to soak up all the sauce. 

It’s also a great place for a romantic dinner or to impress your parents when they’re in town. 

Courtesy of washingtonpost.com

Pappe

1317 14th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20005

This is the newest Indian restaurant in the city, but it’s already making a splash on the D.C. food scene. Located on the always vibrant 14th Street in Logan Circle, this place fills up every weekend and even most weeknights. 

If you like a traditional chicken Tikka Masala, don’t deviate from what you know. Order it and prepare to have the best chicken tikka of your life -- or at least of your life here in D.C. The chicken is so soft, the sauce so flavorful. And the best part is that you can get a full-size portion for only $15, which in a popular restaurant like Pappe is a great deal. 

If you do insist on trying something else, you can check out the dinner menu here.  

Courtesy of washingtonian.com

The Bombay Club

1815 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20006

If you’re looking for the fanciest of the fancy, then Bombay Club is the place. Here you’ll find the politicians, lobbyists, and other really important people (or people who think they’re important). The restaurant features a lounge where you should start your evening with a couple of cocktails or some hearty red wine. 

Once in the dining room, have your server recommend their specials of the day and guide you through the full dinner experience. 

Share a few appetizers for the table so you get to taste as much as possible. Then order family-style -- an assortment of hot dishes like lamb, chicken, and beef with plenty of rice and naan. Everything is incredibly authentic. 

Learn more about the perfectly curated menu here. 

Courtesy of tripadvisor.com

Love trying new foods around Washington, D.C.? Check out these best Russian, Mexican, and vegetarian restaurants. 

What is your favorite Indian place in the city? Let us know in the comments below!