New York: Vatan Indian Vegetarian (Murray Hill)
Vatan is a temple to Gujarati thali, offering an all-you-can-eat vegetarian feast in a dramatic, temple-inspired setting. The thali includes a parade of dishes-dal, kadhi, undhiyu, rotis, rice, and sweets-served in traditional metal platters. The menu is strictly vegetarian and changes seasonally, with highlights like spicy chaats, creamy paneer, and tangy pickles. The décor transports you to India with hand-painted murals and carved wooden accents, making for a truly immersive experience.
London: Thali (Islington)
Thali in Islington celebrates the diversity of Indian regional cuisine with generous, beautifully presented thalis. Choose from vegetarian, non-veg, or seafood thalis, each featuring a selection of curries, dal, rice, breads, chutneys, and pickles. The space is contemporary yet cozy, with vibrant colors and eclectic art. Start with a palak chaat or samosas, and pair your meal with a mango lassi or a glass from their thoughtful wine list. The menu is a journey across India’s culinary landscape, all on one plate.
Paris: Krishna Bhavan (Gare du Nord)
Krishna Bhavan, near Gare du Nord, is Paris’s go-to for authentic South Indian thalis. The vegetarian thali comes loaded with rice, sambar, rasam, vegetable curries, dal, papad, and desserts like semolina halwa. The bustling, unpretentious dining room is always full of locals and travelers craving a taste of home. Expect quick service, fresh flavors, and a menu that’s both affordable and deeply satisfying-a rare find in the French capital.
Tokyo: Mumbai Yotsuya (Shinjuku)
Mumbai Yotsuya elevates the thali to an art form with its 31-dish Royal Thali, available by reservation only. This extravagant spread includes a dazzling array of curries, tandoori specialties, breads, rice, chutneys, and desserts, all served in a sleek, modern setting. Chef-driven and meticulously presented, the thali is a true culinary voyage across India, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The experience is paired with Indian teas or lassi, making it a destination for Tokyo’s discerning diners.
Hong Kong: Leela (Causeway Bay)
Leela, led by acclaimed chef Manav Tuli, reimagines Indian cuisine with playful elegance. While not a traditional thali house, Leela offers curated tasting menus and sharing platters that channel the spirit of thali-multiple small plates highlighting regional flavors. Expect inventive chaats, Lucknowi kebabs, and luxurious curries, all in a chic, art-filled space. The drinks menu features creative cocktails and a global wine list, making Leela a top pick for modern Indian dining in Hong Kong.
Berlin: India Club (Mitte)
India Club, located near the Brandenburg Gate, is Berlin’s most refined destination for North Indian thali. Chef Manish Bahukhandi, formerly of India’s top luxury hotels, sources organic meats and spices to create a thali featuring butter chicken, dal makhani, tandoori vegetables, and house-made breads. The elegant dining room, with dark wood and Indian motifs, sets the stage for a sophisticated meal. The wine list is international, and service is polished-perfect for a special occasion or business lunch.
Mexico City: Maza Bistrot (Colonia Juárez)
Maza Bistrot, helmed by chef Rohan Chanana from Rajasthan, offers a refined, ever-changing thali experience in the heart of Colonia Juárez. The thali, listed as “Curry du Jour,” features a main (lamb, chicken, or vegetarian), seasonal vegetables, rice, and fresh bread, all plated with French finesse thanks to co-owner Caroline Astier Chanana. The relaxed, bistro-style space blends Indian warmth with Parisian charm. Expect regional chaats as starters and a rotating selection of curries, all made with uncompromising quality and passion for authentic flavors.
