Badmaash

Tucked away in downtown LA where the Historic Core transitions into a more institutional stretch, Badmaash occupies a unique position in the city’s dining landscape. This isn’t a restaurant you stumble upon by accident—you have to seek it out. But make the effort, because what you’ll find is exactly the kind of modern Indian spot that LA has been missing. The space strikes that balance between trendy and comfortable, creating an atmosphere where you actually want to hang out.

The menu cleverly bridges two worlds: classic Indian preparations that deliver exactly what you’d expect, and inventive fusion dishes that push boundaries without losing their soul. The Chicken Tikka Poutine has earned its reputation—imagine tikka masala transformed into poutine form, with crispy fries, melted cheese curds, and that familiar spiced gravy pooling at the bottom. It sounds indulgent because it is, but the execution elevates it beyond late-night munchie territory into something genuinely crave-worthy. The Butter Chicken Samosas take a familiar format and supersize it, packing generous portions of curry inside flaky pastry.

For those who want to explore the traditional side, the Goan Yam and Pork Curry stands out with its perfectly braised pork shoulder swimming in a sweet-and-spicy sauce. The Ghost Chili Lamb Vindaloo sounds intimidating but delivers more complexity than straight heat—don’t let the name scare you off. The whole experience feels relaxed and unpretentious, making it ideal for casual dates or weeknight dinners when you want something more interesting than the usual options.

Whether you’re craving familiar comfort food or curious fusion creations, Badmaash delivers on both fronts. It’s the kind of neighborhood restaurant that fills a gap you didn’t know existed, proving that LA’s Indian food scene has plenty of room to grow and evolve.