Oh, so you don't know about Indo-Chinese food? The subcontinent isn't all about buffets, and Indo-Chinese food is growing more popular by fusing their savory flavors. Imagine Southeast Asian stir fries complemented by South Asian spices and starches. It's worth the trip to Hoffman Estates. A second location in Naperville is open.

A former Michelin Bib Gourmand winner (until 2020), Sabri has been around for nearly 25 years. They have secured a rare patio space on Devon. This Pakistani restaurant’s signature namesake beef dish is memorable, as is the chicken boti, beef samosas, and lamb chops. Order to-go online.

No, you won't find meats slathered in sauce at this Pakistani spot. But it's a rare opportunity to find beef (Frontier beef) spiced the South Asian way. Don't sleep on the biryani, and mind the house rules, which are posted on the open/closed sign. Also, if you've ever wanted to try goat, this is the best place on Devon to sample the meat with several selections.

It's a perpetual struggle for lovers of South Indian vegetarian food: Mysore Woodlands vs. Udupi? Try the Thali at Udupi, the combo platter for veggie delights. And don't forget to sample the deep-fried puffy goodness that is the poori. Make sure there's some spiced potatoes at your disposal, too.

This is a traditional Indian sweet shop that also serves solid chai. The chain has two local locations, on Devon and in Northwest Suburban Hoffman Estates. Snack wise, there's a smattering of vegetarian items like dosa and pani poori.

In Lakeview, this modest fast-casual Nepalese restaurant is a momo paradise with the cherished item available in numerous configurations. Food is fresh and flavorful. If dumplings don’t interest, don’t sleep on the rajma.

What started out as a pop-up series in bars has blossomed into a hip restaurant that blends Indian flavors with American applications. Superkhana International isn’t a regional restaurant, but one that specializes in riffs like a butter chicken calzone and a pizza made of Indian flatbread. The dhokla is a can’t miss dish, showing a traditional side. The space is only open for pick-up.

There's probably not a better place for chai in Chicago. Chiya Chai, which opened has been open for years in Logan Square, features a mind-blowing assortment of teas brewed perfectly. There really is something for everyone inside this cute space. And there's the Nepalese food, featuring momos, this starchy and sticky dumplings filled with lamb and other goodies, including curry chicken wings.

Another Nepalese spot that serves great Indian food. This is where to try a momo, a Nepalese-style dumpling that's comparable to Chinese pot stickers.

Wazwan Supper Club has found a permanent home for halal Asian-inspired street food in Wicker Park. A griddled burger has a nice mix of spices, as does the fried chicken sandwich. The momos are also the best in the city, as the kitchen uses fine dining techniques. Be on the look out for the debut of fine dining component, Aman, which will offer a tasting menu.

In West Town, Vajra is something truly exceptional — a full-service Nepalese and Indian restaurant with a full bar and imaginative cocktails. The momos maybe the best in Chicago. The classics are all there, but the tender goat chops — with yogurt marinade — is what will keep diners returning. Order via Tock. Unfortunately, Vajra continues to be open only for carryout during the pandemic.

The owners of Rooh Chicago have opened a bar along Hubbard Street and the food is balanced with Indian-style snacks inspired by the city of Goa, located on India’s West Coast. Shredded pork and chicken makes these “poi-wiches” addictive. Check out a fun prawn and chorizo fried rice, plus all-star chicken wings in a hip setting. There’s also location at Time Out Market food hall in Fulton Market.

Vermillion is a well known quantity outside of Chicago, as Rohini Dey opened a New York location. But the original continues to thrive with sidewalk patio on Hubbard Street in River North. The name of the game is Indo-Latin fusion, with dishes like skirt steak with mole and an eclectic cocktail selection. It’s far from traditional, but still worth a visit.

This suburban import makes its Chicago debut with a solid menu of traditional Punjabi favorites. This location is just steps from Grant Park and has a large delivery radius giving folks a quality option for naan, a delightful baigan bhartha (eggplant) and a variety of tandoor fare.