Finding the best affordable Indian food in Brooklyn Heights does not have to mean sacrificing flavor, portion size, or variety. Although Brooklyn Heights is known for its historic architecture, waterfront views, and relatively upscale residential character, diners can still find Indian restaurants offering accessible lunch specials, reasonably priced vegetarian dishes, filling rice plates, curries, naan, and convenient takeout.
The neighborhood’s Indian restaurant selection is relatively compact, which makes it useful to look at both restaurants located directly in Brooklyn Heights and affordable Indian restaurants in nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, Fort Greene, and Prospect Heights. This wider area gives budget-conscious diners considerably more choice without requiring a long trip.
For many people, lunch is the best time to find value. Restaurants may offer combination meals that include an entrée, rice, bread, or other accompaniments for less than ordering several individual dishes at dinner. Curry Heights, for example, currently lists a $10 one-vegetable-entrée lunch with rice and naan and a $12 two-vegetable-entrée combination.
Vegetarian diners can often stretch their budget even further because dishes based on lentils, chickpeas, potatoes, cauliflower, spinach, and other vegetables tend to be filling without the higher price of meat-based entrées.
Why Brooklyn Heights Has Great Indian Restaurants
Brooklyn Heights may be known primarily for its historic brownstones, tree-lined streets, waterfront views, and proximity to Brooklyn Bridge, but it is also a convenient starting point for exploring vegan Indian food in Brooklyn. The neighborhood itself has a relatively compact Indian restaurant scene, while nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Court Street, Boerum Hill, and other surrounding areas provide even more opportunities to explore plant-based Indian cuisine.
For vegan diners, Indian food is especially appealing because many traditional dishes are built around vegetables, lentils, chickpeas, rice, herbs, spices, and plant-based ingredients. Rather than relying on meat substitutes, a good Indian meal can make vegetables and legumes the centerpiece.
Indian Cuisine Naturally Offers Many Plant-Based Dishes
One of the biggest reasons Brooklyn Heights works well for vegan Indian dining is the enormous variety of naturally meat-free Indian dishes.
Depending on the restaurant and regional style, vegan diners may find options such as:
- Chana masala
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable curries
- Dal
- Vegetable biryani
- Vegetable samosas
- Pakoras
- Dosa
- Idli
- Sambar
- Vegetable uttapam
- Roti
This gives plant-based diners considerably more variety than simply ordering a vegetable side dish.
However, vegetarian does not automatically mean vegan. Indian cooking commonly uses ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, milk, and paneer. Vegan diners therefore need to ask about preparation rather than relying only on a menu’s vegetarian designation.
Brooklyn Heights Has Restaurants With Vegan-Friendly Choices
Two restaurants directly in Brooklyn Heights are particularly relevant to a vegan Indian food search.
Mint Heights at 46 Henry Street describes its cuisine as modern Indian cooking and specifically says its menu can be used to build a vegan and gluten-free feast. The restaurant features dishes ranging from tandoori specialties and coastal curries to aromatic biryanis and vegetable-focused preparations.
Curry Heights at 151 Remsen Street also specifically promotes vegetarian and vegan options. Its menu includes dishes such as chana masala and baingan bharta, while its current restaurant listing identifies vegan dining among its available options.
That combination makes Brooklyn Heights a useful destination for diners who want Indian food while following a plant-based diet.
The Variety Goes Beyond Curry
A common misconception is that vegan Indian dining means choosing between dal and vegetable curry. In reality, Indian cuisine encompasses many regional traditions.
A diner can move from North Indian dishes such as chana masala and aloo gobi to South Indian specialties such as dosa, idli, and sambar.
Nearby Downtown Brooklyn is particularly useful for this broader exploration. Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi are both located at 383 Bridge Street, with the former categorized specifically as South Indian.
South Indian cuisine can be particularly rewarding for vegan diners because rice, lentils, fermented batters, vegetables, coconut, and spices play such important roles. Still, diners should confirm whether ghee or other dairy is used in individual dishes.
Nearby Neighborhoods Expand the Vegan Indian Food Scene
Brooklyn Heights does not need to be treated as a strict boundary when searching for the best vegan Indian restaurants.
Nearby areas such as Downtown Brooklyn, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, and Smith Street provide additional Indian restaurants and different styles of cooking.
For example, Indian Table on Court Street offers Indian-Goan cuisine, while Dastaan Indian Kitchen on Smith Street provides another nearby Indian dining option.
This wider area is valuable for vegan diners because it increases the chances of finding restaurants with different regional specialties and more plant-based choices.
Indian Food Works Well for Vegan Groups
Indian cuisine is also an excellent choice when a group contains both vegans and non-vegans.
A table can share:
- Vegetable samosas
- Chana masala
- Dal
- Aloo gobi
- Vegetable biryani
- Roti
- Vegetable curry
while non-vegan guests can order paneer, chicken, lamb, or other dishes separately.
This makes Indian restaurants particularly practical for families, couples, work groups, and friends with different dietary preferences.
Fresh Spices Make Plant-Based Food Flavorful
Another reason vegan Indian food can be so satisfying is the use of spices and aromatics.
Cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic, cardamom, cinnamon, mustard seeds, chilies, fenugreek, and other spices can create complex flavors without requiring meat or dairy.
A well-prepared vegetable curry can therefore be rich and flavorful even when it contains no animal products.
Mint Heights specifically emphasizes house-ground spices and seasonal New York produce as part of its modern Indian approach.
Vegan Diners Should Pay Attention to Hidden Dairy
The biggest challenge for strict vegans is usually not finding vegetables—it is identifying hidden dairy ingredients.
Before ordering, ask:
- Is this cooked with ghee?
- Does the curry contain butter?
- Is cream used?
- Does the dish contain yogurt?
- Is the naan made with milk or butter?
- Can this be prepared without dairy?
- Is the rice cooked with ghee?
This is particularly important with dishes that appear plant-based but may be finished with butter or ghee.
For example, dal, vegetable biryani, naan, and some vegetable curries may be vegetarian without necessarily being vegan.
Brooklyn Heights Is a Good Starting Point for Plant-Based Indian Dining
The strongest advantage of Brooklyn Heights is its location. Diners can begin with restaurants directly in the neighborhood and then expand into nearby parts of Brooklyn when they want more regional variety.
For a convenient vegan Indian meal, Mint Heights and Curry Heights are logical starting points because both directly promote vegan-friendly choices.
For a broader culinary experience, nearby Downtown Brooklyn can introduce South Indian specialties, while Court Street and Smith Street provide additional regional and contemporary Indian options.
Ultimately, the appeal of vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights comes from the combination of naturally plant-based Indian cooking, local restaurants with vegan-friendly menus, and easy access to a wider Brooklyn Indian-food scene. Whether you want a quick curry and rice, a shared dinner, South Indian dosa, or a more contemporary Indian meal, Brooklyn Heights provides a strong starting point for exploring plant-based Indian cuisine.
Top Vegan Indian Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights
For diners searching for the best vegan Indian restaurants in Brooklyn Heights, it is important to distinguish between restaurants that are genuinely vegan and Indian restaurants that simply offer vegan-friendly dishes. Brooklyn Heights has a relatively small Indian restaurant scene, so the strongest approach is to begin with restaurants located in the neighborhood and then consider nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Smith Street, Boerum Hill, and other surrounding areas.
Within Brooklyn Heights itself, Mint Heights and Curry Heights are the two most relevant restaurants for plant-based Indian dining. Both offer vegan options, although neither should be described as an exclusively vegan restaurant.
1. Mint Heights — Best Overall for Vegan-Friendly Indian Food
Located at 46 Henry Street in Brooklyn Heights, Mint Heights is one of the strongest choices for diners looking for Indian food with substantial vegan possibilities.
The restaurant describes its concept as modern Indian cooking that combines traditional recipes with seasonal New York produce. Its official website specifically says diners can “build a hearty vegan and gluten-free feast,” alongside its broader menu of tandoori specialties, paneer tikka, coastal curries, and aromatic biryanis.
That makes Mint Heights particularly relevant to this guide because vegan dining is presented as part of the restaurant’s overall menu rather than simply being an accommodation mentioned elsewhere.
Potential plant-based choices include dishes such as:
- Chana masala
- Chana saag
- Aloo gobi
- Vegetable curries
- Saag aloo
- Vegetable biryani
- Vegetable appetizers
- Other seasonal vegetable preparations
Diners should still confirm individual dishes because Indian cooking frequently uses ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt. A dish containing vegetables is not automatically vegan.
Mint Heights also offers pickup and delivery, making it a practical option for vegan Indian food at home as well as dine-in meals.
Best for: Vegan-friendly Indian dining, modern Indian cuisine, date nights, groups, lunch, dinner, and takeout.
2. Curry Heights — Best Affordable Vegan-Friendly Indian Restaurant
At 151 Remsen Street, Curry Heights is another important choice for vegan diners who want to stay inside Brooklyn Heights.
The restaurant’s own description emphasizes vegetarian and vegan options, highlighting dishes such as chana masala and baingan bharta among its plant-based choices.
Its current restaurant listing also identifies vegan dining, takeout, and delivery among its available options.
For vegan diners, potentially useful dishes include:
- Chana masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable curries
- Some dal preparations
- Vegetable dishes
- Rice-based dishes
One important consideration is the restaurant’s lunch menu. Curry Heights offers inexpensive vegetarian combinations, but vegan diners should not assume that every vegetarian combination is vegan. For example, the menu includes saag paneer and dal makhani, both of which normally involve dairy.
The best approach is to identify individual dishes that can be prepared without ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, or paneer.
Best for: Affordable vegan-friendly Indian food, casual dining, lunch, takeout, and simple vegetable curries.
Best Vegan Indian Restaurants Near Brooklyn Heights
Because Brooklyn Heights has only a small number of Indian restaurants, vegan diners may want to expand their search into nearby neighborhoods. Downtown Brooklyn and surrounding areas offer additional Indian restaurants and, importantly, more opportunities to explore South Indian cuisine, where many traditional dishes are naturally plant-forward.
3. Brooklyn Curry Project — South Indian Vegan-Friendly Possibilities
Located at 383 Bridge Street in Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Curry Project is a useful nearby option for diners who want to move beyond the typical North Indian curry menu.
It is categorized as a South Indian restaurant, making it particularly interesting for vegan diners interested in dishes based around rice, lentils, vegetables, fermented batters, and coconut.
Potential dishes to explore include:
- Dosa
- Idli
- Vada
- Sambar
- Vegetable uttapam
- Coconut chutneys
- Vegetable rice dishes
The exact vegan suitability depends on preparation. For example, dosa may sometimes be cooked with ghee, so strict vegans should ask whether the cooking fat is plant-based.
Best for: South Indian cuisine, dosa, lentil-based dishes, and exploring plant-forward Indian food.
4. Filter Kaapi — South Indian Breakfast and Lunch
Filter Kaapi
Its current business listing identifies it as an Indian restaurant with daytime hours, making it more suitable for breakfast or lunch than a traditional dinner.
South Indian cuisine can be particularly useful for vegan diners because many traditional dishes rely on rice, lentils, vegetables, spices, and coconut rather than dairy.
Potential vegan-friendly choices may include dosa, idli, sambar, and vegetable preparations, subject to confirmation about ghee, butter, and other dairy ingredients.
Best for: Daytime vegan-friendly Indian food, South Indian specialties, dosa, and lighter meals.
5. Govinda’s Kitchen — Plant-Forward Indian Dining Nearby
Govinda’s Kitchen
Its Downtown Brooklyn location makes it convenient for diners who want additional Indian choices without traveling deep into Brooklyn.
For plant-based diners, the appeal is the opportunity to look for meals built around vegetables, legumes, rice, and Indian spices.
As with any non-vegan restaurant, vegan diners should confirm whether specific dishes contain ghee, butter, milk, cream, or yogurt.
Best for: Plant-forward Indian meals and casual dining near Brooklyn Heights.
6. Dastaan Indian Kitchen — Nearby Contemporary Indian Option
Dastaan Indian Kitchen at 115 Smith Street is another nearby choice for diners willing to travel beyond Brooklyn Heights.
The restaurant offers a broad Indian menu centered on curries, biryanis, tandoori specialties, and regional Indian flavors. Its location on Smith Street makes it a convenient addition to a wider Brooklyn Heights Indian-food search.
For vegan diners, the best strategy is to ask which vegetable and lentil dishes are currently prepared without dairy.
Best for: Contemporary Indian dining, curries, biryani, groups, and exploring nearby restaurants.
Best Options at a Glance
| Restaurant | Location | Vegan Focus | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Heights | Brooklyn Heights | Strong vegan options | Best overall |
| Curry Heights | Brooklyn Heights | Vegan-friendly | Budget dining |
| Brooklyn Curry Project | Downtown Brooklyn | Plant-forward South Indian | Dosa & regional food |
| Filter Kaapi | Downtown Brooklyn | South Indian options | Breakfast/lunch |
| Govinda’s Kitchen | Downtown Brooklyn | Plant-forward | Casual dining |
| Dastaan Indian Kitchen | Smith Street | Vegan options to verify | Contemporary Indian |
Which Restaurant Should Vegan Diners Choose?
If you want to stay inside Brooklyn Heights, start with Mint Heights. Its official menu information explicitly promotes the ability to build a vegan meal, making it the clearest fit for this particular search.
For a more affordable option, Curry Heights is a strong alternative. Its menu has numerous vegetarian dishes and the restaurant explicitly identifies vegan options, although individual ingredients should be confirmed.
If you’re willing to travel a little farther, Downtown Brooklyn is particularly interesting for vegan diners who want South Indian food. Dosa, idli, sambar, and other lentil- and rice-based dishes can provide a completely different plant-based Indian dining experience.
The key is to remember that vegan-friendly does not mean 100% vegan. For strict vegan diners, always confirm the cooking fat and ask specifically about ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, milk, and paneer before ordering.
Best Neighborhoods or Areas for Vegan Indian Food Near Brooklyn Heights
When searching for the best vegan Indian restaurants in Brooklyn Heights, it is useful to look beyond the neighborhood’s exact boundaries. Brooklyn Heights has a relatively compact Indian restaurant scene, while nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, and Crown Heights provide a much wider selection of Indian cuisine and plant-based dishes.
For vegan diners, this broader search is especially helpful. Indian cuisine already has a strong tradition of cooking with lentils, chickpeas, vegetables, rice, spices, and coconut, but individual restaurants differ significantly in how many dishes are actually prepared without dairy.
1. Brooklyn Heights
Best for: Convenient Indian dining, vegetable curries, dal, chana masala, and vegan-friendly options
Brooklyn Heights should be the first area to explore if convenience is the priority.
The neighborhood’s two most relevant Indian restaurants are Mint Heights on Henry Street and Curry Heights on Remsen Street. Both are located directly in Brooklyn Heights and provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices. Curry Heights is specifically listed with vegan options and offers vegetarian lunch combinations, while Mint Heights promotes vegan and gluten-free dining options.
For vegan diners, Brooklyn Heights is a good starting point for dishes such as:
- Chana masala
- Vegetable curries
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Some dal preparations
- Vegetable biryani
- Roti
The important point is to confirm preparation. A vegetarian curry can contain ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt, so vegan diners should ask specifically about dairy.
Why visit: The easiest option for staying within Brooklyn Heights while still finding Indian food with plant-based possibilities.
2. Downtown Brooklyn
Best for: South Indian food, dosa, idli, sambar, and naturally plant-forward dishes
Downtown Brooklyn is one of the best nearby areas to explore if you want to expand beyond traditional North Indian curries.
Restaurants such as Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi are associated with South Indian cuisine.
This is particularly valuable for vegan diners because South Indian cuisine includes many dishes based on rice, lentils, fermented batters, vegetables, coconut, and spices.
Popular choices to investigate include:
- Plain dosa
- Masala dosa
- Idli
- Vada
- Sambar
- Vegetable uttapam
- Coconut chutney
- Vegetable rice dishes
However, dosa and other seemingly plant-based dishes can sometimes be cooked with ghee, so ask before ordering if you follow a strict vegan diet.
Why visit: One of the strongest nearby areas for exploring South Indian cuisine and expanding your vegan Indian options.
3. Cobble Hill and Court Street
Best for: Regional Indian cuisine and relaxed sit-down dining
The Court Street and Cobble Hill area is another useful extension of a Brooklyn Heights vegan-food search.
Indian Table at 234 Court Street offers Indian-Goan cuisine, while Tera Mera at 272 Court Street provides another nearby Indian restaurant option.
Indian-Goan cooking can be particularly interesting for plant-based diners because regional dishes may incorporate vegetables, rice, coconut, herbs, and distinctive spice combinations.
This area is better suited to diners who want to sit down for a proper meal rather than simply grab a quick curry.
Why visit: A good choice when you want regional Indian flavors and a more leisurely dining experience.
4. Boerum Hill and Livingston Street
Best for: Upscale Indian dining and special occasions
The area around Livingston Street and Boerum Hill gives vegan diners another option when atmosphere and occasion matter.
Kashi Indian Cuisine & Bar, at 286 Livingston Street, is positioned as a more upscale Indian restaurant, with a higher price range than the casual Indian restaurants directly in Brooklyn Heights.
This area works particularly well for:
- Date nights
- Celebrations
- Business dinners
- Group meals
- Upscale Indian dining
Vegan diners should ask about the current vegetable-focused dishes and request dairy-free preparation where possible.
Why visit: Best suited to vegan diners looking for a more polished Indian dining experience.
5. Smith Street
Best for: Contemporary Indian dining and exploring nearby restaurants
Smith Street is another useful corridor between Brooklyn Heights and neighboring Brooklyn communities.
Dastaan Indian Kitchen at 115 Smith Street is a prominent Indian restaurant in the area, offering curries, biryanis, tandoori specialties, and other Indian dishes.
The area is convenient for diners who want to combine an Indian meal with a broader restaurant outing along Smith Street.
For vegans, the key is to ask which vegetable and lentil dishes are prepared without ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt.
Why visit: Convenient nearby dining with a mix of Indian restaurants and other food options.
6. Fort Greene
Best for: South Indian food and dosa
Fort Greene is worth considering when you are willing to travel a little farther for additional Indian choices.
The area around Lafayette Avenue includes DOSA ROYALE, a South Indian restaurant that can be particularly appealing to vegetarian and vegan diners interested in dosa and other regional specialties.
South Indian cuisine provides a welcome change from the typical restaurant menu built around tikka masala, naan, and paneer.
For vegan diners, dishes such as dosa, idli, sambar, and vegetable preparations can provide plenty of possibilities, subject to confirmation about ghee and other dairy ingredients.
Why visit: A strong destination for South Indian food and plant-forward dishes.
7. Prospect Heights
Best for: Exploring a broader Brooklyn Indian-food scene
Prospect Heights expands the search considerably and is useful for diners who are willing to travel beyond the immediate Brooklyn Heights area.
The neighborhood and nearby Vanderbilt Avenue corridor include Indian restaurants such as OMAR’S INDIAN FINE CUISINE and Mumbai Place.
Prospect Heights is particularly useful for people who want to turn a simple dinner into a broader Brooklyn food outing.
Rather than limiting yourself to one restaurant, you can compare different regional styles and discover vegetarian and vegan dishes that may not be available in Brooklyn Heights itself.
Why visit: A good choice for a wider Indian-food exploration and more restaurant variety.
8. Crown Heights
Best for: Casual Indian food and a wider range of neighborhood dining
Crown Heights is farther from Brooklyn Heights but can be worthwhile when variety is more important than proximity.
Dhania on Prospect Place is one Indian restaurant currently operating in the area, while other Indian restaurants throughout central Brooklyn provide additional opportunities for vegetarian and plant-based dining.
This area is better suited to diners planning a longer food outing rather than someone looking for the closest vegan Indian restaurant to Brooklyn Heights.
Why visit: More choices when you are willing to travel farther into Brooklyn.
Where Should Vegan Diners Start?
If you want to stay in Brooklyn Heights, start with Mint Heights and Curry Heights.
If you want South Indian vegan-friendly food, explore Downtown Brooklyn and Fort Greene.
If you want regional Indian cuisine, Court Street and Cobble Hill are worth exploring.
If you want an upscale Indian dinner, look toward Boerum Hill and Livingston Street.
And if you’re willing to travel farther for a larger selection, Prospect Heights and Crown Heights can broaden your choices considerably.
The biggest advantage of using these surrounding neighborhoods is that you don’t have to settle for a restaurant simply because it has one vegan entrée. You can explore different Indian regional cuisines and look for naturally plant-based dishes such as dal, chana masala, vegetable curries, dosa, idli, sambar, and vegetable biryani.
For strict vegans, however, always confirm the cooking method. “Vegetarian” does not automatically mean “vegan,” and “vegan-friendly” does not necessarily mean the entire restaurant is vegan. Checking for ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, and other dairy ingredients is the safest approach.
Popular Indian Dishes People Should Try in Brooklyn Heights
One of the best ways to explore vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights is to look beyond the standard idea of a “vegetarian curry.” Indian cuisine has a huge range of dishes built around lentils, chickpeas, vegetables, rice, fermented grains, herbs, coconut, and aromatic spices. Many are naturally plant-based, while others can be made vegan by leaving out ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt.
For diners visiting Brooklyn Heights for the first time, the most useful approach is to order several dishes with different textures and flavors. Start with a snack or appetizer, add one or two vegetable or lentil dishes, include rice or a South Indian specialty, and finish with an appropriate vegan side or dessert.
1. Chana Masala
Chana masala is one of the best dishes to try when looking for vegan-friendly Indian food.
It features chickpeas cooked with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. The chickpeas make the dish filling, while the tomato-based sauce gives it a satisfying combination of acidity, warmth, and spice.
Curry Heights specifically lists chana masala among its vegetarian and vegan-friendly offerings.
For vegan diners, chana masala is often a good starting point, but it is still worth confirming that the particular preparation does not contain ghee or butter.
Best with: Rice, roti, or a confirmed dairy-free bread.
2. Dal Tadka
Dal tadka is a classic lentil preparation in which cooked lentils are flavored with a tempering of spices, aromatics, and oil or ghee.
The beauty of dal is that every restaurant can prepare it somewhat differently. You might find garlic, cumin, chili, tomatoes, coriander, or other spices adding depth to the dish.
It can be naturally vegan when prepared with vegetable oil, but some restaurants use ghee for the tempering.
What to ask:
“Is the dal cooked or finished with ghee or butter?”
If the answer is yes, ask whether it can be prepared with oil instead.
Best with: Basmati rice or roti.
3. Aloo Gobi
Aloo gobi combines potatoes and cauliflower with spices and aromatics.
It is one of the most recognizable vegetarian Indian dishes and can be an excellent vegan choice when prepared without ghee or butter.
The dish can range from relatively dry and roasted to more saucy depending on the restaurant.
Because it does not rely on cream or paneer for its flavor, it is particularly useful when building a vegan Indian meal.
Best with: Roti, rice, or dal.
4. Bhindi Masala
Bhindi masala is an Indian preparation of okra cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices.
It is a great choice for diners who want something different from potatoes, chickpeas, or paneer.
When prepared with vegetable oil rather than ghee, bhindi masala can be a naturally vegan dish. As with any restaurant meal, confirm the preparation if you follow a strict vegan diet.
Best with: Roti and dal.
5. Baingan Bharta
Baingan bharta is made with roasted or charred eggplant that is mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices.
The roasting gives it a smoky character that makes it particularly interesting for diners who want a vegetable dish with a lot of depth.
Curry Heights currently includes baingan bharta among its vegetarian options.
For vegan diners, ask whether the eggplant is cooked with ghee or finished with butter.
Best with: Roti, rice, or a dairy-free Indian bread.
6. Chana Saag
Chana saag combines chickpeas with leafy greens, bringing together two ingredients that work especially well in plant-based Indian cooking.
The chickpeas add substance while the greens contribute an earthy flavor.
This is particularly useful for vegan diners because it can provide both protein and vegetables in one dish.
Mint Heights currently promotes vegan-friendly meals and identifies several plant-forward choices on its menu. Its official site specifically says diners can build a vegan and gluten-free feast.
Best with: Rice or roti.
7. Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani is a fragrant rice dish made with basmati rice, vegetables, herbs, and aromatic spices.
It can include vegetables such as potatoes, peas, carrots, cauliflower, and beans, depending on the restaurant.
For vegan diners, biryani requires a little more attention than a simple vegetable curry because some recipes use ghee. Raita is also commonly served with biryani and contains yogurt, so it should be avoided or replaced by a vegan accompaniment if necessary.
Best for: A substantial plant-based main course or a shared rice dish.
8. Vegetable Samosas
Vegetable samosas are an easy introduction to Indian cuisine.
These crisp pastries are commonly filled with potatoes, peas, and spices and served with chutneys.
They are often vegetarian and can be vegan depending on the pastry and frying method.
For strict vegans, ask whether:
- The pastry contains butter or dairy
- Ghee is used
- The samosas are fried in a shared fryer
Best with: Tamarind chutney and mint or coriander chutney.
9. Vegetable Pakoras
Pakoras are vegetables coated in a seasoned chickpea-flour batter and fried until crisp.
Common versions include:
- Onion pakora
- Potato pakora
- Spinach pakora
- Cauliflower pakora
- Mixed vegetable pakora
The batter is often naturally dairy-free, but preparation differs between restaurants.
They make a particularly good starter when several people are sharing a meal.
Best with: Mint chutney or tamarind chutney.
10. Dosa
If you’re willing to explore beyond the immediate Brooklyn Heights restaurant selection, dosa should be high on your list.
Dosa is a thin South Indian crepe traditionally made from fermented rice and lentil batter. It is crisp around the edges and can be filled with potatoes, vegetables, or other savory ingredients.
Nearby Brooklyn Curry Project is categorized as a South Indian restaurant, while Filter Kaapi is another nearby Indian restaurant at 383 Bridge Street.
Popular varieties include:
- Plain dosa
- Masala dosa
- Vegetable dosa
- Mysore dosa
- Onion dosa
For vegan diners, the key question is whether the dosa is cooked with ghee or butter.
Best for: Naturally plant-forward South Indian dining.
Best Indian Dishes for First-Time Vegan Diners
If you’re new to vegan Indian food, a good first meal could include:
Starter: Vegetable samosas or pakoras
Main 1: Chana masala
Main 2: Aloo gobi or baingan bharta
Lentil dish: Dal prepared without ghee
Rice: Vegetable biryani prepared without ghee
Bread: Roti
Side: Dairy-free chutneys
This combination provides different textures and flavors while keeping the meal completely plant-focused.
Vegetarian Indian Dishes That Are Not Vegan
It is equally important to recognize dishes that look plant-based but contain dairy.
Popular examples include:
- Saag paneer
- Palak paneer
- Paneer tikka
- Paneer makhani
- Dal makhani
- Butter naan
- Garlic naan with butter
- Creamy vegetable curries
- Raita
These dishes can be excellent choices for vegetarians, but they should not automatically be included in a vegan meal.
Curry Heights, for example, lists both vegan options and vegetarian dishes such as palak paneer, demonstrating why diners should look at the preparation rather than simply the word “vegetarian.”
How to Order a Vegan Indian Meal
When ordering at an Indian restaurant in Brooklyn Heights, a few simple questions can make the meal much easier:
“Is this cooked with ghee?”
“Does this contain butter or cream?”
“Is there yogurt in the sauce?”
“Can you prepare this with vegetable oil instead?”
“Is the naan dairy-free?”
For a strict vegan diet, also ask about shared cooking equipment when relevant.
Mint Heights is particularly worth considering because its official restaurant description explicitly mentions options for creating a vegan and gluten-free feast, while Curry Heights identifies vegetarian and vegan options on its current restaurant information.
Best Dishes by Type
| Dish | Vegetarian | Vegan Potential | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chana Masala | Yes | High | First-time diners |
| Dal Tadka | Yes | High | Protein-rich meal |
| Aloo Gobi | Yes | High | Vegetable lovers |
| Bhindi Masala | Yes | High | Exploring Indian vegetables |
| Baingan Bharta | Yes | High | Smoky flavors |
| Chana Saag | Yes | High | Greens + protein |
| Vegetable Biryani | Yes | Medium | Filling main course |
| Samosa | Yes | Medium | Appetizer |
| Dosa | Yes | Medium–High | South Indian food |
| Idli | Yes | High | Light meal |
| Sambar | Yes | Medium–High | South Indian meal |
| Saag Paneer | Yes | No | Vegetarian diners |
| Paneer Tikka | Yes | No | Grilled vegetarian food |
| Dal Makhani | Yes | Usually No | Rich, creamy dishes |
The best vegan Indian dining experience in Brooklyn Heights comes from combining naturally plant-based dishes with careful ingredient checks. Start with classics such as chana masala, dal, aloo gobi, baingan bharta, or vegetable biryani, then explore South Indian specialties such as dosa, idli, and sambar in nearby areas. This gives vegan diners a much broader experience than simply ordering the first vegetable curry on the menu.
Vegetarian and Vegan Indian Food Options in Brooklyn Heights
One of the biggest reasons Indian cuisine works so well for plant-based diners is that vegetarian food is deeply integrated into the cuisine rather than treated as a small category of alternatives. In and around Brooklyn Heights, diners can find dishes built around chickpeas, lentils, spinach, potatoes, cauliflower, eggplant, okra, mushrooms, rice, and Indian spices, along with dairy-based favorites such as paneer.
For someone searching for vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights, however, there is an important distinction. A dish can be completely vegetarian while still containing ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, milk, or paneer. Vegan diners should therefore check the preparation of individual dishes instead of relying only on a restaurant’s vegetarian designation.
Vegetarian Indian Food in Brooklyn Heights
The two most relevant restaurants within Brooklyn Heights itself are Mint Heights and Curry Heights, both of which offer substantial meat-free selections.
Mint Heights at 46 Henry Street is listed as vegetarian-friendly and offering vegan options. Its current menu includes a particularly broad selection of vegetarian entrées, including saag paneer, chana saag, chana masala, bhartha, saag aloo, matar mushroom, vegetable curry, vegetable jalfrazie, aloo gobi, and bhindi masala.
That variety makes Mint Heights a strong choice for diners who want to build a complete vegetarian Indian meal rather than simply order one meat-free side dish.
Good choices to consider include:
- Chana masala — chickpeas cooked with aromatic Indian spices
- Chana saag — chickpeas with spinach
- Aloo gobi — potatoes and cauliflower with cumin and spices
- Bhindi masala — okra with spices
- Bhartha — roasted eggplant with onions, ginger, garlic, and peas
- Matar mushroom — peas and mushrooms in a curry
- Vegetable jalfrazie — assorted vegetables in a tomato-based sauce
- Vegetable curry — mixed vegetables with Indian herbs and spices
- Saag paneer — spinach with Indian cheese
Mint Heights’ current delivery menu lists many of these vegetarian entrées at around $15, although prices can change.
Curry Heights at 151 Remsen Street is another particularly useful option for vegetarian diners. Its official restaurant information specifically highlights vegetarian and vegan choices, including chana masala and baingan bharta.
Its current menu includes vegetarian choices such as:
- Aloo matar gobi
- Saag paneer
- Chana masala
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Cabbage bhaji
- Tarka dal
- Dal makhani
Curry Heights also lists vegan dining among its available options and offers takeout and delivery.
Best Vegan Indian Food Options
For strict vegans, the easiest starting point is generally dishes based on vegetables, chickpeas, lentils, and spices, while checking whether dairy has been added during cooking.
Some of the most useful dishes to ask about include:
- Chana masala
- Chana saag
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable jalfrazie
- Mixed vegetable curry
- Some dal preparations
- Vegetable biryani
- Roti
- Vegetable appetizers
Curry Heights’ current menu listings specifically identify several vegetable dishes as vegan, including vegetable jalfrezi, baingan bharta, gobi bhajee, mixed vegetable curry, chana saag, and chana masala.
That makes it one of the more useful options for diners following a plant-based diet.
Paneer Is Vegetarian, But Not Vegan
One of the most important distinctions for first-time vegan Indian diners is paneer.
Paneer is a fresh Indian cheese used in dishes such as:
- Saag paneer
- Paneer tikka
- Matar paneer
- Paneer makhani
- Karahi paneer
- Paneer bhurjee
- Malai kofta preparations containing paneer
These dishes are generally vegetarian but not vegan.
Mint Heights, for example, has numerous paneer dishes on its current menu, including saag paneer, matar paneer, paneer makhani, karahi paneer, and paneer bhurjee.
For vegetarian diners, paneer is an excellent source of richness and texture. For vegan diners, it should simply be avoided unless a restaurant specifically offers a plant-based substitute.
Dal Can Be Vegan—But Always Check
Dal is another excellent choice for plant-based diners, but its preparation varies.
Some dals are cooked with oil and spices and can be naturally vegan. Others are finished with butter or ghee, making them vegetarian but not vegan.
This is particularly important with rich dishes such as dal makhani.
When ordering, ask:
“Is this dal cooked with ghee or butter?”
If the answer is yes, ask whether it can be prepared with oil instead.
Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani is another good option for vegetarian diners and can sometimes work for vegans.
The rice may contain vegetables, herbs, saffron, whole spices, and aromatic seasonings. However, some restaurants use ghee to cook or finish the rice.
For a strict vegan diet, confirm that the biryani is prepared without:
- Ghee
- Butter
- Yogurt
- Cream
Indian Breads for Vegan Diners
Indian bread is another area where vegetarian and vegan diets can differ.
Naan frequently contains dairy or is brushed with butter after baking. Mint Heights’ current menu, for example, states that its naan is brushed with butter after baking.
That means vegan diners should not automatically assume plain naan is dairy-free.
Ask whether the restaurant can provide:
- Dairy-free naan
- Roti
- Chapati
Roti is often a simpler choice, but preparation should still be confirmed.
South Indian Vegetarian and Vegan Options Near Brooklyn Heights
Diners willing to travel beyond Brooklyn Heights have another major advantage: South Indian cuisine.
Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi are both located at 383 Bridge Street in Downtown Brooklyn and are associated with South Indian cuisine.
South Indian cooking offers a completely different range of plant-based dishes, including:
- Masala dosa
- Plain dosa
- Idli
- Vada
- Uttapam
- Sambar
- Coconut chutney
- Vegetable rice dishes
Many of these dishes are naturally vegetarian because they are based on rice, lentils, vegetables, coconut, and spices.
For vegan diners, however, dosa and other dishes should still be checked for ghee or butter.
Vegetarian vs. Vegan: What Should You Order?
| Dish | Vegetarian | Vegan Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Chana masala | Yes | Usually |
| Chana saag | Yes | Often |
| Aloo gobi | Yes | Often |
| Bhindi masala | Yes | Often |
| Baingan bharta | Yes | Often |
| Vegetable jalfrazie | Yes | Often |
| Mixed vegetable curry | Yes | Depends on preparation |
| Dal | Yes | Depends on preparation |
| Vegetable biryani | Yes | Check for ghee |
| Saag paneer | Yes | No |
| Paneer tikka | Yes | No |
| Dal makhani | Yes | Usually needs checking |
| Naan | Yes | Often no |
| Roti | Yes | Often, but verify |
Questions Vegan Diners Should Ask
If you follow a strict vegan diet, a few questions can make ordering much easier:
“Does this contain butter?”
“Is ghee used in this dish?”
“Does the sauce contain cream?”
“Is there yogurt in the marinade?”
“Is the bread dairy-free?”
“Can you prepare this with oil instead of ghee?”
These questions are particularly important because dairy can be added during cooking even when the primary ingredients are vegetables.
Best Choices for a Vegan Indian Meal
A simple plant-based meal could include:
Starter: Vegetable samosa or vegetable pakora, after confirming preparation
Main dish: Chana masala
Second dish: Baingan bharta or bhindi masala
Rice: Vegetable biryani, after confirming it is made without ghee
Bread: Roti, if dairy-free
Side: Chutney or a vegetable preparation
This creates a filling meal based on legumes, vegetables, rice, and spices without relying on dairy or meat.
For vegetarian diners who are comfortable with dairy, the possibilities become even broader, with paneer dishes, creamy curries, dal makhani, and other traditional favorites joining the menu.
Overall, Brooklyn Heights is a convenient starting point for vegetarian Indian dining, while nearby Downtown Brooklyn expands the selection with South Indian specialties. Mint Heights offers one of the broadest vegetarian menus in the neighborhood, while Curry Heights is particularly useful for diners seeking clearly identified vegan-friendly vegetable dishes.
For strict vegans, the best approach is to focus on naturally plant-based dishes and confirm the use of ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, and other dairy ingredients before ordering.
Budget-Friendly Vegan Indian Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights
Finding budget-friendly vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights is relatively easy because Indian cuisine naturally offers filling plant-based dishes built around lentils, chickpeas, vegetables, rice, and spices. The main challenge for vegan diners is not finding vegetarian food—it is identifying dishes that are prepared without ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, milk, or other dairy ingredients.
For diners who want to keep the bill reasonable, Curry Heights and Mint Heights are the two most practical places to start inside Brooklyn Heights. Nearby Downtown Brooklyn and surrounding neighborhoods provide additional choices if you are willing to travel a little farther.
1. Curry Heights — Best Budget-Friendly Choice in Brooklyn Heights
Curry Heights is located at 151 Remsen Street in Brooklyn Heights and is one of the strongest choices for an inexpensive Indian meal with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.
The restaurant’s current menu includes a dedicated vegetarian lunch format: one vegetarian entrée with rice and naan for $10, or two vegetarian entrées with rice and naan for $12. Available choices include chana masala, bhindi masala, baingan bharta, tarka dal, aloo matar gobi, and other vegetable dishes.
For vegan diners, the restaurant specifically advertises vegetarian and vegan options.
A budget-conscious vegan diner could start by asking about:
- Chana masala
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Aloo-based vegetable dishes
- Tarka dal
- Vegetable curries
- Rice
- Roti, if available without dairy
Important: the lunch combination includes naan, but naan is not automatically vegan. Ask whether the bread contains butter, milk, yogurt, or ghee and request a dairy-free alternative if necessary.
Best for: Affordable lunch, chana masala, vegetable curries, dal, casual dining, and takeout.
2. Mint Heights — Best for Vegan-Friendly Lunch Options
Mint Heights at 46 Henry Street is another excellent choice for diners who want to stay inside Brooklyn Heights.
Mint Heights describes its menu as modern Indian cooking and specifically says guests can build a vegan and gluten-free feast. Its menu combines traditional Indian recipes with seasonal New York produce and includes curries, vegetable dishes, biryani, tandoori specialties, and other shareable plates.
The restaurant is also currently listed as offering vegetarian and vegan options, with lunch and dinner service as well as pickup and delivery.
For a more affordable vegan meal, lunch is generally the better time to visit. Rather than ordering several premium dishes, look for a vegetable-based lunch option and confirm which components are completely dairy-free.
Potential choices to ask about include:
- Chana saag
- Vegetable curries
- Aloo gobi
- Vegetable biryani
- Vegetable appetizers
- Rice
- Dairy-free breads
Best for: Vegan-friendly dining, modern Indian food, lunch, takeout, and groups with mixed dietary preferences.
How to Eat Vegan Indian Food on a Budget
The easiest way to keep a vegan Indian meal inexpensive is to focus on legumes, vegetables, rice, and simple breads rather than ordering multiple premium dishes.
Good-value choices often include:
- Chana masala
- Dal
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable curry
- Rice
- Roti
A combination such as chana masala + rice + vegetable dish can be filling without requiring several expensive entrées.
For two people, consider sharing:
2 vegetable dishes + 1 rice dish + 2 dairy-free breads
This gives both diners multiple flavors while keeping the total order more manageable.
The Most Important Budget Tip: Choose Lunch
If price is a major consideration, lunch is often the best time to explore Indian restaurants.
Curry Heights is particularly useful because its current express lunch menu packages vegetarian entrées with rice and naan starting at $10.
Mint Heights also operates lunch service and offers a range of vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices.
For vegan diners, however, remember that a listed lunch price does not necessarily mean the entire combination is vegan. The bread and sauces may contain dairy, so ask for substitutions when needed.
Best Cheap Vegan Indian Dishes
Chana Masala
Chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and spices make chana masala one of the most satisfying low-cost Indian dishes.
It is particularly useful for vegan diners because the dish can often be prepared without dairy.
Dal
Lentils are one of the best-value ingredients in Indian cuisine.
Ask whether the particular dal contains ghee or butter before ordering.
Aloo Gobi
Potatoes and cauliflower create a filling vegetable dish that pairs well with rice or roti.
Bhindi Masala
Okra cooked with onions and spices is another flavorful way to get a substantial vegetable dish without relying on dairy.
Baingan Bharta
Roasted eggplant gives this dish a smoky flavor, while tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices add depth.
Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani can function almost as a complete meal because it combines fragrant rice with vegetables and spices.
Always confirm whether ghee is used.
Budget-Friendly Vegan Takeout
Takeout can be one of the easiest ways to control the cost of an Indian meal.
Instead of ordering several individual entrées, consider:
For one person:
- 1 vegetable curry
- Rice
- Dairy-free bread
For two people:
- 2 vegetable curries
- 1 rice dish
- 2 dairy-free breads
- 1 shared appetizer
Mint Heights offers pickup and delivery, while Curry Heights also provides delivery and takeout.
When ordering through a delivery platform, don’t rely solely on a “vegan” or “vegetarian” label. If you are strictly vegan, contact the restaurant when the preparation details are unclear.
Vegan-Friendly Indian Food Near Brooklyn Heights
If you are willing to travel outside Brooklyn Heights, the surrounding neighborhoods offer additional Indian restaurants and different styles of cuisine.
Downtown Brooklyn is particularly interesting because restaurants such as Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi provide access to South Indian cuisine. South Indian cooking can offer naturally plant-based choices such as dosa, idli, sambar, and vegetable preparations.
Govinda’s Kitchen in nearby Downtown Brooklyn is another option to investigate when expanding your search beyond the immediate neighborhood.
These restaurants can be particularly useful when you want more variety than the traditional North Indian curry-and-naan format.
Vegan Does Not Always Mean Cheap
It is worth remembering that vegan dining is not automatically inexpensive. Some contemporary Indian restaurants charge premium prices for specialty dishes, cocktails, elaborate presentations, or upscale dining environments.
If your priority is affordable vegan Indian food, focus on:
- Lunch specials
- Vegetable curries
- Dal
- Chickpea dishes
- Rice-based meals
- Simple breads
- Shared appetizers
- Takeout combinations
This approach generally provides much better value than ordering several specialty entrées.
How to Avoid Unexpected Dairy Charges or Ingredients
For strict vegans, the biggest concern is usually not the price but accidentally ordering something containing dairy.
Before placing your order, ask:
- “Is this cooked with ghee?”
- “Does this contain butter?”
- “Is there cream in the sauce?”
- “Does this contain yogurt?”
- “Is the rice cooked with butter or ghee?”
- “Can I have this without dairy?”
- “Is the naan vegan?”
This is especially important with dishes such as dal makhani, paneer dishes, creamy curries, naan, and some biryanis.
Best Budget Pick for Vegan Diners
For someone specifically searching for cheap vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights, Curry Heights is the strongest starting point because of its dedicated low-cost vegetarian lunch combinations and explicit listing of vegan options.
Mint Heights is the better alternative when you want a somewhat more contemporary restaurant atmosphere and a menu that explicitly promotes vegan and gluten-free dining.
For even more variety, expand the search into Downtown Brooklyn, where South Indian restaurants provide another category of naturally vegetarian dishes.
The key to keeping vegan Indian dining affordable is simple: choose lunch, prioritize vegetables and lentils, share dishes, and always confirm dairy-free preparation before ordering.
Fine Dining Indian Restaurants Near Brooklyn Heights
For diners searching for vegan Indian restaurants in Brooklyn Heights, the fine-dining category requires a little geographic clarification. Brooklyn Heights itself has polished Indian restaurants, but some of the area’s more clearly upscale Indian destinations are located in nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Boerum Hill, Court Street, and Park Slope.
For plant-based diners, the best upscale choices are those that offer substantial vegetable dishes rather than simply one vegetarian entrée. It is also important to check whether dishes contain ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, or other dairy, since vegetarian and vegan are not interchangeable.
1. Kashi Indian Cuisine & Bar — Best Upscale Indian Dining Near Brooklyn Heights
Kashi Indian Cuisine & Bar, at 286 Livingston Street, is one of the strongest choices for an upscale Indian dinner near Brooklyn Heights.
Kashi describes its cuisine as a modern interpretation of North Indian cooking, with dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of North India. Its menu features slow-cooked biryanis, char-grilled dishes, Indian street-food-inspired small plates, cocktails, and a more polished dining environment.
It is particularly relevant for vegan diners because the current menu clearly identifies some dishes as vegan and vegetarian. For example, the menu lists Achari Gobhi, a cauliflower dish with pickled spices, as vegan and vegetarian. It also lists other vegetarian choices such as sweet chili cauliflower and several paneer preparations.
Kashi’s menu also clearly identifies dairy in dishes such as naan, paratha, paneer, raita, and several desserts, which makes it easier for vegan diners to distinguish genuinely plant-based choices from vegetarian ones.
The restaurant currently offers a weekday lunch special from Monday through Friday, with a vegetarian option priced at $19.99, while dinner is better suited to a more leisurely special-occasion meal.
Best for: Upscale Indian dinners, date nights, celebrations, modern North Indian cuisine, cocktails, and vegan-friendly fine dining.
2. Mint Heights — Best Upscale-Feeling Indian Restaurant in Brooklyn Heights
Mint Heights at 46 Henry Street is the strongest choice for diners who specifically want to remain inside Brooklyn Heights.
Mint Heights describes itself as a modern Indian restaurant combining traditional recipes with seasonal New York produce. Its menu includes smoky tandoori specialties, paneer tikka, coastal curries, aromatic biryanis, and options for building a vegan and gluten-free meal.
The restaurant also emphasizes stylish interiors, craft cocktails, shareable plates, and an atmosphere suited to date nights, family dinners, and group celebrations.
For vegan diners, this makes Mint Heights particularly useful because the restaurant specifically promotes vegan dining rather than simply offering one vegetarian dish. Current listings also identify it as vegetarian-friendly with vegan options.
It is more accurate to describe Mint Heights as a polished contemporary Indian restaurant than as formal luxury fine dining. Nevertheless, its atmosphere and modern menu make it a strong option for a special vegan or vegetarian dinner in Brooklyn Heights.
Best for: Date nights, celebrations, contemporary Indian food, vegan-friendly dining, and staying within Brooklyn Heights.
3. Indian Table — Best for Regional Indian Dining
Indian Table at 234 Court Street is a nearby option rather than a restaurant directly inside Brooklyn Heights.
Its biggest attraction is its focus on Indian-Goan cuisine, giving diners an opportunity to experience regional Indian cooking rather than a menu dominated by familiar North Indian restaurant staples.
For vegan diners, regional Indian cuisine can be particularly rewarding because vegetables, rice, coconut, spices, legumes, and plant-based preparations play important roles in many Indian culinary traditions.
Indian Table is positioned at a higher price level than casual Indian restaurants in Brooklyn Heights, making it more appropriate for a leisurely dinner or special occasion.
When ordering vegan, ask the restaurant specifically about ghee, butter, dairy, and yogurt in individual preparations.
Best for: Regional Indian cuisine, Indian-Goan flavors, special occasions, and diners who want something beyond standard Indian restaurant fare.
4. LORE — Modern Indian Dining for a Special Occasion
LORE, at 441 7th Avenue in Park Slope, is farther from Brooklyn Heights but worth considering when the goal is a more contemporary Indian dining experience.
The restaurant is currently categorized as a Modern Indian restaurant, with a higher-end positioning and a strong local customer rating.
For vegan diners, the important consideration is the current menu rather than simply the restaurant’s cuisine category. Ask about seasonal vegetable dishes and whether they can be prepared without ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt.
Because LORE is outside the immediate Brooklyn Heights area, it makes more sense for diners who are willing to travel specifically for an elevated contemporary Indian meal.
Best for: Modern Indian cuisine, special occasions, contemporary presentation, and an upscale dinner farther from Brooklyn Heights.
5. Dastaan Indian Kitchen — Upscale-Casual Option on Smith Street
Dastaan Indian Kitchen at 115 Smith Street is another nearby restaurant to consider when expanding beyond Brooklyn Heights.
Dastaan offers Indian curries, biryanis, tandoori specialties, and other traditional dishes. Its location on Smith Street makes it convenient for diners exploring the broader restaurant scene around Brooklyn Heights and Downtown Brooklyn.
It is better described as upscale-casual or contemporary Indian dining rather than formal fine dining, but it can still work well for a special dinner.
Vegan diners should ask about the preparation of individual dishes and confirm that dairy ingredients have not been used.
Best for: Contemporary Indian dining, groups, curries, biryani, and a relaxed special dinner.
Best Fine Dining Indian Restaurants for Vegan Diners
| Restaurant | Area | Dining Style | Vegan Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kashi | Downtown Brooklyn | Upscale / fine dining | Clearly marked vegan dishes on current menu |
| Mint Heights | Brooklyn Heights | Contemporary / upscale-casual | Explicitly promotes vegan options |
| Indian Table | Court Street | Regional / upscale | Ask about dairy and ghee |
| LORE | Park Slope | Modern Indian | Confirm current vegan dishes |
| Dastaan | Smith Street | Upscale-casual | Confirm preparation individually |
Best for a Vegan Fine-Dining Experience
Kashi is the strongest nearby choice when you specifically want an upscale Indian restaurant with vegan dishes clearly identified on the current menu. Its Achari Gobhi and other vegetable preparations make it easier for plant-based diners to navigate the menu.
Best for Staying in Brooklyn Heights
Mint Heights is the obvious choice when location is the priority. Its modern atmosphere, contemporary Indian menu, and explicit vegan-friendly positioning make it particularly suitable for a date night or celebration within the neighborhood.
Best for Regional Indian Cuisine
Indian Table is a strong alternative for diners who want to explore Goan and Indian-Portuguese culinary influences rather than focusing exclusively on modern North Indian cuisine.
Best for Contemporary Indian Dining
LORE is worth considering if you are comfortable traveling farther from Brooklyn Heights for a modern Indian experience.
What Should Vegan Diners Order at an Upscale Indian Restaurant?
A good vegan meal does not have to be limited to one vegetable entrée.
Start with a plant-based appetizer such as a vegetable or cauliflower preparation, then add a vegetable curry, dal that has been confirmed dairy-free, rice, and a suitable bread.
At Kashi, for example, the current menu specifically identifies Achari Gobhi as vegan, while steamed basmati rice is also marked vegan.
A potential meal could therefore include:
- Vegan vegetable appetizer
- Achari Gobhi or another confirmed vegan entrée
- Dairy-free dal or vegetable curry
- Steamed basmati rice
- Chutneys
- A confirmed dairy-free bread
- Vegan dessert, if available
Always verify the current preparation with the restaurant, particularly for bread and sauces.
Vegetarian Does Not Always Mean Vegan
This is especially important when choosing an upscale Indian restaurant.
Kashi’s current menu provides a good example: its paneer dishes are labeled vegetarian but contain dairy, while its Achari Gobhi is specifically labeled vegan. Its naan and lachha paratha also contain dairy.
Therefore, vegan diners should look for explicit vegan labeling or ask restaurant staff rather than assuming a vegetarian dish is plant-based.
The most important ingredients to ask about are:
- Ghee
- Butter
- Cream
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Paneer
Also ask about how vegetables are cooked and whether a finishing butter or ghee is added immediately before serving.
For a special occasion, it is often worthwhile to mention your vegan requirements when making the reservation or ordering so the kitchen has an opportunity to accommodate them properly.
Overall, Kashi is the strongest nearby option for clearly identified vegan dishes in an upscale Indian setting, while Mint Heights is the best choice for a polished vegan-friendly Indian dinner within Brooklyn Heights itself. The surrounding neighborhoods provide additional contemporary and regional choices for diners willing to travel beyond the neighborhood.
Takeout and Delivery Tips for Vegan Indian Food in Brooklyn Heights
Ordering vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights for takeout or delivery can be a convenient way to enjoy curries, rice dishes, vegetable specialties, and South Indian favorites at home. Restaurants such as Mint Heights and Curry Heights offer takeout and delivery, while nearby areas add even more Indian choices.
For vegan diners, however, ordering online requires a little more attention than simply selecting dishes marked “vegetarian.” Indian cooking frequently uses ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, and other dairy ingredients, so checking preparation details is essential.
Choose Restaurants That Clearly Offer Vegan Options
Start with restaurants that explicitly identify vegan choices rather than trying to modify every dish on the menu.
Mint Heights is particularly relevant because its official website specifically says diners can build a vegan and gluten-free feast and offers both pickup and delivery.
Current delivery listings also separate the menu into categories such as vegetarian entrées, daal and chutneys, rice, and breads, making it easier to identify plant-based possibilities.
Curry Heights also lists vegan dining among its available options and provides direct takeout and delivery ordering.
Look Beyond the “Vegetarian” Category
When ordering online, don’t assume that everything under Vegetarian Entrée is vegan.
For example, dishes containing:
- Paneer
- Butter
- Cream
- Yogurt
- Ghee
- Milk
are vegetarian but not vegan.
Instead, look for dishes based primarily on vegetables, chickpeas, lentils, rice, and spices.
Potential choices include:
- Chana masala
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Chana saag
- Vegetable curry
- Some dal preparations
- Vegetable biryani
- Vegetable samosas
- Roti, when dairy-free
Always confirm preparation when following a strict vegan diet.
Ask About Ghee Before Ordering
Ghee is one of the most important ingredients for vegan diners to ask about.
A dish can contain only vegetables and spices but still be cooked or finished with ghee.
This is particularly important with:
- Dal
- Vegetable curries
- Biryani
- Rice dishes
- Tandoori vegetables
- Breads
A simple request such as “Please prepare this without ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt” can help clarify your requirements.
Be Careful With Indian Breads
Naan is one of the most popular additions to an Indian takeout order, but traditional naan can contain dairy.
Butter naan is obviously unsuitable for vegans, but even plain naan may contain milk, yogurt, or butter depending on the recipe.
If you’re vegan, ask whether the restaurant has a dairy-free bread option.
Roti can sometimes be a better choice, but preparation varies, so it should still be confirmed.
Build a Balanced Vegan Takeout Order
Rather than ordering several similar vegetable curries, choose dishes with different textures and flavors.
A good two-person vegan order could include:
1 appetizer + 2 vegetable entrées + 1 rice dish + 2 breads
For example:
- Vegetable samosas
- Chana masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable biryani
- Dairy-free roti
This provides a more complete meal and allows everyone to sample several dishes.
Choose Rice-Based Dishes for Easy Sharing
Rice dishes are particularly practical for delivery because they travel well and can be shared.
Vegetable biryani is an especially good choice, but vegan diners should confirm that it is prepared without ghee or butter.
Plain basmati rice is another simple option when ordering several curries.
Current Mint Heights delivery menus include rice and vegetarian categories, making it easy to combine different components of a takeout order.
Keep Saucy Dishes Separate When Possible
For delivery, dishes with plenty of sauce generally travel better than very dry preparations.
Good takeout choices include:
- Chana masala
- Dal
- Vegetable curry
- Baingan bharta
- Saag-style vegetable preparations
- Vegetable biryani
If you’re ordering several dishes, keep rice and curries separate until you’re ready to eat. This helps preserve texture and prevents the rice or bread from becoming overly saturated.
Order Chutneys and Pickles Separately
Chutneys can completely change the flavor of a vegan Indian meal.
Mint chutney, tamarind chutney, coconut chutney, and Indian pickles can provide freshness, acidity, sweetness, or heat.
However, ingredients vary. If you are strictly vegan, check whether the chutney contains yogurt or another dairy ingredient.
Check the Delivery Menu Before Paying
Restaurant menus on delivery platforms can change, and prices or availability may differ between lunch and dinner.
For example, current Mint Heights delivery listings show different menu sections and service periods, including lunch ordering and pickup/delivery options.
Before submitting your order, check:
- Whether the restaurant is currently delivering to your address.
- Whether the desired vegan dishes are available.
- Whether modifications can be requested.
- Whether the bread is dairy-free.
- Whether the dish contains ghee or butter.
- Whether additional sauces or sides contain dairy.
Consider Pickup for Nearby Restaurants
If you’re close enough to walk or drive to the restaurant, pickup can sometimes be a practical alternative to delivery.
Mint Heights offers online pickup, while Curry Heights also provides direct takeout ordering.
Pickup can also make it easier to speak directly with restaurant staff about vegan preparation before taking the food home.
Don’t Rely Entirely on Delivery-App Labels
Delivery platforms are useful for browsing menus, but their dietary labels should not be treated as a guarantee for strict vegan dining.
A dish marked “vegetarian” may contain:
- Ghee
- Butter
- Cream
- Yogurt
- Paneer
If veganism is a strict dietary requirement, contact the restaurant directly when the menu does not clearly explain ingredients.
Nearby Areas Give You More Delivery Choices
If the Brooklyn Heights options do not have exactly what you’re looking for, expand your search to nearby Downtown Brooklyn, Boerum Hill, Fort Greene, and surrounding neighborhoods.
For example, Filter Kaapi and Brooklyn Curry Project are nearby South Indian options in Downtown Brooklyn. DOSA ROYALE in Fort Greene provides another South Indian choice. These restaurants can be particularly interesting for vegan diners looking for dosa, idli, sambar, and other plant-forward dishes, although ingredients should still be confirmed before ordering.
Best Takeout Strategy for Vegan Diners
For the easiest vegan Indian takeout experience in Brooklyn Heights:
Start with a restaurant that explicitly advertises vegan options, choose naturally plant-based dishes, confirm ghee and dairy, and then build your order around one rice dish, two different vegetable or lentil dishes, and a dairy-free bread or side.
Mint Heights is particularly convenient because its own website explicitly highlights vegan dining and offers online pickup and delivery. Curry Heights is another convenient Brooklyn Heights option with vegan dining listed alongside takeout and delivery.
With a little attention to ingredients, vegan Indian takeout in Brooklyn Heights can offer far more variety than a typical plant-based delivery order—from chickpea curries and lentils to vegetable biryani, roasted eggplant, okra, South Indian dishes, and flavorful Indian breads.
How to Find Authentic Vegan Indian Food in Brooklyn Heights
Finding authentic vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights requires looking beyond a restaurant’s vegetarian labels. Indian cuisine has a long tradition of plant-based cooking, but many dishes that appear vegetarian contain ghee, butter, cream, yogurt, or paneer. For vegan diners, authenticity is therefore about both the style of cooking and the ingredients used.
Brooklyn Heights is a useful starting point because restaurants such as Mint Heights and Curry Heights offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices, while nearby neighborhoods expand the range of regional Indian cooking. Mint Heights specifically describes its menu as offering options for a vegan and gluten-free feast, while Curry Heights highlights vegetarian and vegan choices such as chana masala and baingan bharta.
Look for Restaurants That Offer More Than One Vegan Dish
One useful way to judge whether an Indian restaurant is genuinely accommodating to vegan diners is to look at the breadth of its plant-based menu.
A restaurant with only one vegetable curry may simply have a vegetarian alternative. A restaurant offering several dishes based on chickpeas, lentils, vegetables, rice, and regional spice combinations is more likely to provide a meaningful vegan dining experience.
Look for options such as:
- Chana masala
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Chana saag
- Vegetable curry
- Dal
- Vegetable biryani
- Dosa
- Idli
- Sambar
- Roti
- Vegetable samosas
The exact preparation still needs to be confirmed, but a varied menu gives you more opportunities to create a complete vegan meal.
Understand the Difference Between Vegetarian and Vegan
This is one of the most important things to remember when ordering Indian food.
Vegetarian does not necessarily mean vegan.
Common Indian ingredients that are vegetarian but not vegan include:
- Paneer
- Ghee
- Butter
- Cream
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Raita
For example, saag paneer is vegetarian but not vegan because paneer is dairy. Similarly, a dal can be vegetarian but not vegan if it is finished with ghee.
Even a vegetable biryani can require checking because some recipes use ghee.
Ask About Ghee Specifically
For vegan diners, ghee is one of the most important ingredients to ask about.
Ghee is clarified butter and is widely used in Indian cooking. A dish may not appear creamy or obviously dairy-based and can still contain ghee.
When ordering, ask:
“Is this cooked with ghee or butter?”
If the answer is yes, ask whether the dish can be prepared without them.
This is particularly important for:
- Dal
- Biryani
- Dosa
- Vegetable curries
- Rice dishes
- Tandoori preparations
- Breads
Check the Naan Before Ordering
Naan is one of the most common sources of unexpected dairy.
Depending on the recipe, naan may contain milk, yogurt, butter, or ghee. Butter naan obviously contains dairy, but even plain naan should not automatically be assumed to be vegan.
Roti can sometimes be a better option for vegan diners because traditional versions are often much simpler, but preparation varies by restaurant.
Always ask before ordering.
Explore Naturally Plant-Based Indian Dishes
Authentic Indian cuisine has many dishes where vegetables, legumes, rice, and grains are the primary ingredients rather than substitutes for meat.
Some of the best dishes to investigate include:
Chana Masala
Chickpeas cooked with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and spices are naturally well suited to vegan cooking.
Aloo Gobi
Potatoes and cauliflower create a simple but flavorful combination that does not require dairy.
Bhindi Masala
Okra cooked with onions and spices is another vegetable-forward option.
Baingan Bharta
Roasted eggplant cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices offers a smoky alternative to creamy curries.
Dal
Lentils are one of the foundations of Indian vegetarian cuisine. Just verify whether ghee or butter is used.
Vegetable Biryani
Fragrant rice combined with vegetables and spices can make a satisfying vegan main course when prepared without ghee.
Explore Regional Indian Cuisine
Authenticity also means recognizing that Indian food is not one single cuisine.
North Indian restaurants may specialize in:
- Dal
- Chana masala
- Paneer
- Tandoori cooking
- Vegetable curries
- Biryani
- Naan
South Indian restaurants can introduce:
- Dosa
- Idli
- Vada
- Sambar
- Coconut chutneys
- Uttapam
- Rice-based dishes
For vegan diners, South Indian cuisine can be particularly rewarding because many traditional dishes are based around rice, lentils, fermented batters, vegetables, and coconut.
Nearby Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi provide South Indian options in Downtown Brooklyn, giving diners an opportunity to explore beyond the typical North Indian curry menu.
Look for Traditional Preparation Rather Than Just “Vegan” Labels
A restaurant does not need to market itself as a vegan restaurant to serve excellent vegan Indian food.
In fact, some of the most authentic vegan choices may be dishes that have been traditionally prepared without dairy in the first place.
Rather than searching only for the word “vegan,” look for restaurants that explain:
- Regional origins
- Traditional recipes
- Spice blends
- Cooking techniques
- Ingredient sourcing
- House-made preparations
Curry Heights, for example, describes its cooking as being inspired by Indian culinary traditions and says its chefs combine traditional recipes with modern techniques.
Pay Attention to the Spice Profile
Authentic Indian food is about much more than heat.
A well-prepared dish can balance:
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Turmeric
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Cardamom
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Mustard seeds
- Fenugreek
- Chilies
- Fresh herbs
A vegan curry should still have depth and complexity even without butter or cream.
If you are unfamiliar with Indian food, ask the server to recommend a dish representing the restaurant’s particular regional style rather than simply choosing the mildest option.
Don’t Assume Creamy Means More Authentic
Many popular American Indian dishes are associated with rich, creamy sauces. However, authentic Indian cuisine includes an enormous range of dishes that are not cream-based.
For vegan diners, some of the most interesting choices may be:
- Tomato-based curries
- Lentil dishes
- Dry vegetable preparations
- Coconut-based curries
- Chickpea dishes
- Tamarind-based preparations
- Vegetable biryani
- South Indian rice dishes
This can actually give you a broader picture of Indian cuisine than simply replacing cream-based dishes with dairy-free versions.
Ask About Cross-Use of Dairy Ingredients
If you follow a strict vegan diet, asking about the individual dish may not be enough.
You can also ask whether the restaurant uses:
- The same pan for butter-based and dairy-free dishes
- Ghee on the grill
- Butter on shared breads
- Yogurt-based marinades
- Dairy-containing sauces
- Shared cooking equipment
For someone avoiding dairy because of preference, this may be less important. For someone with a severe allergy, it becomes much more important to communicate the requirement clearly to restaurant staff.
Check the Chutneys and Sides
Chutneys can add a lot of flavor to a vegan Indian meal, but they should not automatically be assumed to be dairy-free.
Good possibilities may include:
- Mint chutney
- Tamarind chutney
- Coconut chutney
- Tomato chutney
- Coriander chutney
Ask about ingredients if you have strict dietary requirements.
The same applies to raita, which is yogurt-based and therefore not vegan.
Choose Dosa Carefully
Dosa can be an excellent vegan option, but the preparation matters.
A traditional dosa made from fermented rice-and-lentil batter can be vegan, but restaurants may cook it with ghee or butter.
If you’re ordering dosa, ask:
“Can you make the dosa without ghee or butter?”
Then check whether the sambar and chutneys contain dairy.
This is particularly useful when exploring nearby South Indian restaurants.
Signs of a Good Authentic Indian Restaurant
When evaluating a restaurant, look for several of these characteristics rather than relying on one signal:
- A menu representing a specific Indian region or several regional traditions
- Proper use of Indian spices
- Traditional cooking techniques
- Fresh chutneys and accompaniments
- A meaningful selection of vegetable dishes
- Lentil and pulse-based dishes
- Regional breads and rice preparations
- Staff who can explain ingredients and preparation
- Vegan modifications that go beyond simply removing cheese
- A menu that changes or expands beyond generic curry-house staples
Authenticity does not require a restaurant to look old-fashioned. Modern Indian restaurants can use contemporary presentation and local ingredients while still respecting traditional techniques and flavors.
Mint Heights is a good example of this approach: its official description combines traditional recipes with seasonal New York produce, house-ground spices, tandoori cooking, coastal curries, and biryanis while also offering vegan-friendly dining.
Questions to Ask When Ordering Vegan Indian Food
A few simple questions can make the ordering process much easier:
“Is this completely dairy-free?”
“Does it contain ghee?”
“Is there butter in the sauce?”
“Does this contain cream or yogurt?”
“Can you prepare it without dairy?”
“Is the naan vegan?”
“Can the dosa be cooked without ghee?”
If the staff can clearly explain the ingredients and offer several alternatives, that is a good sign for vegan diners.
A Good Vegan Indian Meal in Brooklyn Heights
For someone trying vegan Indian food for the first time, a balanced order could include:
- Vegetable samosas
- Chana masala
- Baingan bharta
- Dal prepared without ghee
- Vegetable biryani
- Roti
- Mint or tamarind chutney
If you want to explore beyond Brooklyn Heights, add a South Indian dish such as dosa, idli, or sambar.
The key is to verify preparation rather than relying on labels. A dish described as vegetarian may contain dairy, while a traditionally plant-based dish may be naturally vegan with little or no modification.
Ultimately, finding authentic vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights is less about locating a restaurant that uses the word “vegan” everywhere and more about understanding Indian culinary traditions, identifying naturally plant-based dishes, asking the right ingredient questions, and exploring different regional styles. That approach makes it much easier to discover flavorful Indian food that is both genuinely satisfying and compatible with a vegan diet.
Final Guide to Vegan Indian Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights
Finding the best vegan Indian restaurants in Brooklyn Heights is less about searching for restaurants that serve only vegan food and more about identifying Indian restaurants with substantial plant-based choices. Indian cuisine is particularly well suited to vegan dining because lentils, chickpeas, vegetables, rice, herbs, spices, and plant-based preparations are already central to many traditional dishes.
Within Brooklyn Heights itself, Mint Heights and Curry Heights are the two most useful starting points. Mint Heights specifically promotes options for building a vegan and gluten-free feast, while Curry Heights currently lists vegan dining among its available options and offers a broad vegetarian menu.
Best Vegan-Friendly Choice in Brooklyn Heights
Mint Heights at 46 Henry Street is a strong choice for diners who want modern Indian food with plant-based possibilities. The restaurant describes its cooking as modern Indian cuisine using seasonal New York produce and specifically mentions vegan and gluten-free options.
Its menu provides plenty of opportunities to build a vegan meal around vegetable curries, lentils, chickpeas, rice, and other plant-based dishes. The important step is to confirm that individual preparations are made without ghee, butter, cream, or yogurt.
Best Budget Vegan-Friendly Choice
Curry Heights at 151 Remsen Street is particularly useful for casual and affordable Indian dining. Its current menu includes vegetarian dishes such as chana masala, bhindi masala, baingan bharta, aloo matar gobi, and tarka dal, while OpenTable identifies vegan options and takeout and delivery among its features.
For a vegan meal, diners should ask which of these dishes can be prepared completely without dairy and whether the accompanying naan contains milk, butter, or yogurt.
Expand the Search Beyond Brooklyn Heights
If the goal is to explore a wider range of plant-based Indian cuisine, nearby neighborhoods provide additional choices.
Brooklyn Curry Project and Filter Kaapi, both at 383 Bridge Street, offer a South Indian direction that is especially interesting for vegetarian and vegan diners.
South Indian dishes such as dosa, idli, vada, sambar, and vegetable preparations can add variety beyond the familiar North Indian curry menu. Vegan diners should still ask whether ghee is used in cooking.
For a more upscale nearby meal, Kashi Indian Cuisine & Bar on Livingston Street provides a more polished Indian dining experience, although vegan diners should confirm the current dairy-free choices before ordering.
What Vegan Diners Should Look For
Some of the best dishes to investigate include:
- Chana masala
- Aloo gobi
- Bhindi masala
- Baingan bharta
- Vegetable curry
- Dal prepared without ghee
- Vegetable biryani prepared without ghee
- Dosa
- Idli
- Sambar
- Vegetable pakoras
- Roti
The main ingredients to watch are ghee, butter, cream, milk, yogurt, and paneer. A dish described as vegetarian can still contain several of these ingredients.
Brooklyn Heights vs. Nearby Areas
| Area | Best Vegan Dining Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Brooklyn Heights | Mint Heights, Curry Heights |
| Downtown Brooklyn | South Indian dishes and casual Indian food |
| Court Street / Cobble Hill | Regional Indian dining |
| Boerum Hill | More polished Indian restaurants |
| Prospect Heights | Wider Brooklyn Indian-food selection |
| Crown Heights | Additional casual Indian choices |
The important SEO and geographic distinction is that not every restaurant described as “near Brooklyn Heights” is actually located in Brooklyn Heights. For a local search guide, Mint Heights and Curry Heights should remain the core Brooklyn Heights recommendations, while restaurants in Downtown Brooklyn, Court Street, Boerum Hill, Prospect Heights, and Crown Heights should be presented as nearby alternatives.
Final Takeaway
For diners looking for vegan Indian food in Brooklyn Heights, start with Mint Heights for its explicitly advertised vegan-friendly approach and contemporary menu, and consider Curry Heights for affordable Indian food with a broad vegetarian selection and vegan options.
If you want to explore beyond Brooklyn Heights, nearby Downtown Brooklyn adds South Indian possibilities, while other surrounding neighborhoods provide an even larger selection of Indian restaurants.
The biggest thing to remember is that vegetarian does not automatically mean vegan. Always confirm the preparation of curries, dal, biryani, naan, roti, chutneys, and other dishes when following a strict vegan diet.
With a little attention to ingredients, Brooklyn Heights can be a convenient starting point for discovering flavorful plant-based Indian dining, from chickpea curries and vegetable dishes to lentils, rice, dosa, and other regional specialties.