Where to Eat Indian Cuisine in Banff, Alberta

The original Indian restaurant in Banff, Masala serves traditional cuisine cooked in a wood-fired, tandoori clay oven. The restaurant is relaxed and friendly, the mood set with artwork depicting Hindu gods and Indian life combined with traditional Indian music playing over the speakers. For the best views, book a window table to enjoy vistas over Wolf Street and Cascade Mountain. It’s also near the Lux, the only movie theater in Banff, making it ideal for pre- or post-movie eats.

The literally named Indian Curry House sits on Banff Avenue, offering a South Indian menu inspired by owner Vivek Velmurugan’s most beloved home-cooked dishes. The vibe is relaxed and fun; look out for lunch specials Monday to Thursday if you’re on a budget. Catering to the Alberta palate, the menu includes the dish Pure Alberta Beef Vindaloo – beef covered in a tongue-tingling spicy sauce with aromatic spices and potatoes. If you’re not used to the heat, it might have you reaching for one of the Indian beers served in-house.

The local joke is: “The best place to eat in Banff is Canmore.” And while that might be a little biased, the Spice Hut is worthy of the trip. Part of a small group of Spice Huts dotted across Canada, the Canmore location offers an East Indian menu served in a dressed-down atmosphere. The extensive offering includes plenty of gluten- and lactose-free options plus an enticing selection of vegetarian dishes.

Indian food may be locally thought of as an evening meal, but the breakfast offering at Indian Authentic Cuisine may just shift those views. You’ll find traditional brekkie eats including idli, a steamed rice cake dish, and a selection of pancake-style dosa. If you come later in the day, choose from an à la carte menu laden with classic fare. For a delightful mix of flavors, try the Chicken 65 (deep-fried chicken pieces dressed with Indian herbs and spices) with a local Grumpy Bear Wheat Ale.

A vegetarian restaurant with a focus on a farm-to-table food, Nourish borrows inspiration from across the culinary map. That means an Indian delight can sit comfortably next to Japanese dumplings, broccoli tempura and a kimchi burger – tied together by the use of GMO-free, organic and locally sourced ingredients. Come on a Thursday for live music and discounted craft beers.

One of the two grocery stores in Banff, Nesters Market is the place to head for a grab-and-go Indian meal. The deli counter serves fresh samosas and butter chicken to take out, which makes for an energy-boosting picnic when you’re exploring Banff National Park.