Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is one of the most iconic Indian dishes in the world. Known for its creamy tomato-based gravy, rich butter flavor, and perfectly cooked chicken, it has become a favorite among food lovers in New York City.
NYC’s Indian food scene offers a wide range of butter chicken styles—from traditional Delhi-style recipes to modern chef-driven interpretations. Some restaurants stay true to classic flavors, while others elevate the dish with premium ingredients and unique presentation.
In fact, restaurants like Adda have even turned butter chicken into a full dining “experience,” highlighting how seriously chefs in NYC take this dish.
Top Places for Best Butter Chicken in NYC
Here are some of the best places to eat butter chicken in New York City, based on local popularity, expert recommendations, and authentic flavor.
Adda (East Village)
Adda is one of the most talked-about Indian restaurants in NYC, known for its bold and authentic flavors. Their butter chicken is not just a dish—it’s a curated experience designed to showcase depth, spice, and technique.
The dish is rich, smoky, and layered with flavor, made using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Food critics and diners alike consider it one of the most unique butter chicken experiences in the city.
Known for: Premium butter chicken experience
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, chaat, regional curries
Approx cost: $30–$60
Location: East Village
Website: https://www.addanyc.com
Angel Indian Restaurant (Jackson Heights)
Angel Indian Restaurant is a favorite in Queens for authentic North Indian cuisine. Their butter chicken is known for its balanced flavor—not too sweet, not too spicy—making it appealing to a wide range of diners.
The restaurant focuses on traditional cooking techniques, resulting in a rich and comforting dish that closely resembles Indian home-style flavors.
Known for: Authentic Punjabi-style butter chicken
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, lamb curry, naan
Approx cost: $20–$40
Location: Jackson Heights
Website: https://angelindianny.com
Utsav (Midtown Manhattan)
Utsav is a long-standing Indian restaurant near Times Square that serves a wide variety of dishes, including a well-loved butter chicken.
The dish here is creamy, flavorful, and consistent, making it a popular choice among both locals and tourists. Its convenient location also makes it ideal for pre-theater dining.
Known for: Classic Indian dishes
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, thali, Indo-Chinese items
Approx cost: $30–$60
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Website: https://www.utsavny.com
Saar Indian Bistro (Theater District)
Saar Indian Bistro offers a more refined take on Indian cuisine. Their butter chicken features high-quality ingredients and a slightly elevated presentation, while still maintaining traditional flavors.
It’s a great option for those looking for a more upscale dining experience near Times Square.
Known for: Modern Indian fine dining
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, lamb chops, paneer tikka
Approx cost: $40–$70
Location: Theater District
Website: https://www.saarnyc.com
Bengal Tiger (Midtown)
Bengal Tiger is a hidden gem in Midtown known for its affordable yet flavorful Indian food. Their butter chicken is simple, rich, and satisfying, making it a favorite among locals.
Community discussions often highlight it as a solid option for authentic taste at a reasonable price.
Known for: Budget-friendly Indian food
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, samosas, curries
Approx cost: $20–$35
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Website: (local)
Atithi Indian Cuisine (Williamsburg)
Atithi is one of Brooklyn’s top Indian restaurants, known for its authentic North Indian dishes. Their butter chicken stands out for its depth of flavor and perfectly cooked chicken.
The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and consistent quality make it a favorite among Brooklyn locals.
Known for: Authentic North Indian cuisine
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, biryani, naan
Approx cost: $20–$40
Location: Williamsburg
Website: https://www.atithibrooklyn.com
Bhatti Indian Grill (Murray Hill)
Bhatti Indian Grill is well-known for its tandoori cooking and traditional North Indian dishes. Their butter chicken is flavorful and slightly smoky, thanks to their use of clay ovens.
It’s often recommended by locals looking for authentic Delhi-style flavors.
Known for: Tandoori dishes
Popular dishes: Butter chicken, kebabs, naan
Approx cost: $25–$50
Location: Murray Hill
Website: https://bhattinyc.com
What Makes Great Butter Chicken?
Not all butter chicken is the same. The best versions in NYC usually share a few key qualities:
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Creamy tomato-based gravy with balanced sweetness and spice
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Tender, marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor or grill
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Rich buttery flavor without being too heavy
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Smoky aroma from traditional cooking methods
Restaurants that master these elements create a dish that is both comforting and unforgettable.
Why NYC Is Great for Butter Chicken
New York City is one of the best places in the U.S. to try butter chicken because of its:
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Diverse Indian and South Asian communities
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Wide range of regional cooking styles
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Mix of traditional and modern restaurants
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High competition leading to better quality
From Queens to Manhattan and Brooklyn, you can find butter chicken that ranges from street-style comfort food to fine dining creations.
Final Guide to Best Butter Chicken in NYC
If you’re searching for the best butter chicken in NYC, you have plenty of excellent options depending on your preference:
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👉 Go to Adda for a premium, chef-driven experience
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👉 Visit Jackson Heights for authentic, traditional flavors
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👉 Try Midtown restaurants for convenience and variety
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👉 Explore Brooklyn spots like Atithi for local favorites
Whether you prefer creamy and mild or rich and spicy, NYC offers some of the best butter chicken outside India.