Karma

Tucked into a corner of Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhood, Karma Restaurant and Bar offers an inviting escape into the flavors of India. The atmosphere here is refreshingly unhurried—a rarity in the bustling city dining scene. Large windows face out onto 2nd Street, giving you prime people-watching real estate while you dig into your meal. The space is decorated with colorful abstract artwork that adds a vibrant energy without being overwhelming.

The real star at Karma is the biryani, and it deserves your full attention. Each serving arrives beautifully fragrant, the rice impossibly fluffy and infused with layers of warming spices. Whether you go with chicken or lamb, the meat comes out tender and flavorful, making it easy to understand why regulars keep coming back for this dish. The buffet offers plenty of variety too—pile your plate high with crispy fish pakora, pillowy tandoori roti, and the rich, satisfying shrimp malabar.

This is the kind of spot that welcomes everyone: vegetarians will find plenty of options to choose from, and the relaxed vibe makes it perfect for a casual weekday lunch or a laid-back dinner with friends. There’s a small bar if you want to pair your meal with a drink, and the no-pressure atmosphere means you can linger over your food without feeling rushed to give up your table.

Whether you opt for the buffet or order à la carte, Karma delivers consistently solid Indian fare in a comfortable setting. It’s an excellent choice when you want flavorful food without the fuss—just good cooking, generous portions, and that easy Old City charm.