What to Order at an Indian Restaurant: A Complete Guide to Starters, Curries, Breads and Rice

Walking into an Indian restaurant and looking at an extensive menu can be an exciting experience, but knowing what to order is not always straightforward. From sizzling tandoori starters and creamy curries to fragrant rice dishes and freshly baked naan, there is an incredible variety of flavours, textures and cooking styles to discover.

Whether you are visiting an Indian restaurant for the first time, planning a family meal or looking to try something beyond your usual chicken tikka masala, understanding the menu can help you make a more satisfying choice. You do not need to be an expert in Indian cuisine to enjoy a memorable meal. A little knowledge about the dishes, their flavours and how to combine them is enough to get started.

At The Pearl Restaurant in Audenshaw, Manchester, diners can explore traditional Indian favourites alongside distinctive dishes influenced by the wider cuisines of South Asia, including Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. This guide explains how to choose starters, curries, breads, rice and accompaniments for a meal that suits your appetite and preferences.

1. Start with Indian Starters to Build Your Appetite

Starters are a wonderful way to begin an Indian meal. They introduce you to different spices and cooking techniques without committing to a large main course. If you are dining with friends or family, ordering several starters to share is also an excellent way to discover flavours you might not normally choose.

Onion bhajis

Onion bhajis are a familiar favourite on British Indian restaurant menus. Thinly sliced onions are combined with a seasoned gram-flour batter and fried until crisp. The result is a savoury, crunchy starter with a soft centre and a warming blend of spices.

Bhajis work particularly well with mint yoghurt or tamarind chutney. They are a good option for diners who enjoy crisp textures and savoury flavours. As recipes differ, ask the restaurant about the ingredients if you have allergies or dietary requirements.

Samosas

Samosas are pastry parcels filled with a seasoned mixture, commonly potatoes and peas in a vegetarian version or meat in other variations. Their crisp outer layer contrasts with a soft, aromatic filling.

Vegetable samosas are a useful starting point for vegetarians, while meat-filled varieties offer a heartier alternative where available. A little chutney adds sweetness or tanginess and balances the spices.

Seekh kebabs and tandoori starters

If you prefer savoury, smoky flavours, consider seekh kebabs or other grilled starters. Seekh kebabs are typically made from seasoned minced meat shaped around skewers and cooked over intense heat. The cooking method helps create a browned exterior while retaining flavour inside.

Tandoori dishes are another popular choice. Ingredients are usually marinated before being cooked at high temperatures in a traditional clay oven. The result can be lightly charred, aromatic and full of flavour.

For a group, a selection of different starters is often more enjoyable than ordering several portions of the same dish. Combine something crunchy, something grilled and a vegetarian option to give everyone a chance to try something different.

2. Understand the Different Types of Indian Curry

The word curry covers an enormous range of dishes. Some have creamy sauces, others feature tomatoes and onions, while some rely on herbs, spices or slow-cooked ingredients. The best choice depends on your preferred flavour, the amount of heat you enjoy and whether you want something rich or relatively light.

Chicken tikka masala

Chicken tikka masala is one of the best-known dishes in British Indian restaurants. It generally combines pieces of marinated chicken with a tomato-based sauce enriched with cream or other ingredients, depending on the recipe.

Its familiar combination of savoury, tangy and creamy flavours makes it a popular choice for diners who want a substantial curry without overwhelming chilli heat. However, spice levels and recipes can vary between restaurants, so ask the team if you prefer a milder version.

Butter chicken

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is associated with a rich tomato-based sauce, butter and a smooth texture. It is often creamy, gently spiced and slightly sweet, although the exact balance depends on the kitchen.

The Pearl's menu includes Bombay Butter Chicken, described as a North Indian dish prepared with cashew, almonds, tomatoes and butter. It is worth considering if you enjoy rich sauces and want to explore a classic style of Indian cooking.

Korma

Korma is generally associated with a mild, creamy sauce, often made using ingredients such as yoghurt, cream, nuts or other aromatic elements. It is an appealing option for diners who prefer gentle flavours rather than pronounced chilli heat.

A mild curry can still contain a complex blend of spices. The emphasis is usually on fragrance, richness and balance rather than a strong burning sensation. If you are new to Indian food, korma can be a comfortable introduction.

For more guidance on choosing a curry to suit your preferences, read our existing article, What Is the Mildest Indian Curry? A Beginner's Guide to Spice Levels.

Bhuna

Bhuna is often recognised by its thick, concentrated sauce. Rather than a large quantity of thin gravy, the ingredients are cooked together until the sauce clings to the meat or vegetables. Onions, tomatoes and spices commonly contribute to its depth of flavour.

It is a useful choice if you prefer a curry with a substantial texture and an intense savoury character. The heat level varies according to the recipe, so check with your server before ordering if you have a particular preference.

Jalfrezi

Jalfrezi typically features peppers, onions, tomatoes and chillies, creating a lively combination of sweetness, tanginess and heat. Its texture is often more vibrant than that of a smooth, creamy curry.

Choose jalfrezi if you enjoy vegetables alongside your main ingredient and want a dish with a noticeable chilli kick. If you are uncertain about the heat, ask whether the kitchen can prepare it at a suitable spice level.

Rogan josh

Rogan josh is a well-known curry associated with Kashmiri cooking. It is often prepared with lamb and a fragrant blend of spices, although recipes vary across regions and restaurants. Its appeal lies in its aromatic sauce and slow-developed flavour rather than relying solely on chilli heat.

It is worth considering if you enjoy lamb and want to move beyond the most familiar British Indian restaurant choices.

3. Explore The Pearl's Signature and Speciality Dishes

Once you understand the classics, exploring a restaurant's house specials is one of the most rewarding ways to discover something new. These dishes may use distinctive combinations of spices, different cooking techniques or ingredients that are less common on everyday menus.

The Pearl's published menu includes several signature dishes and chef's specials. Availability, prices and preparation can change, so consult the current menu before visiting.

Chicken or lamb handi

Handi is associated with slow, covered cooking in a deep cooking vessel. The Pearl's menu describes its chicken or lamb handi as a traditional spicy Pakistani dish flavoured with methi leaves and herbs, with onion, garlic, ginger and a tomato-yoghurt-based sauce.

It is a promising option for diners who enjoy savoury depth, aromatic herbs and a sauce that brings several flavours together.

Chicken or lamb karahi

Karahi dishes are named after the wok-like vessel traditionally used to prepare them. They commonly feature tomatoes, ginger, garlic and fresh chillies, producing a lively sauce with a distinctive savoury character.

The Pearl lists chicken or lamb karahi among its house specials. Consider it if you prefer a curry with prominent ginger, garlic and tomato flavours rather than a predominantly creamy sauce.

Chicken Angara

For diners who enjoy grilled flavours, Chicken Angara offers another option. The Pearl describes it as chicken breast marinated in medium spices, chargrilled and finished in a special sauce with red and green peppers, onions, ground coriander seeds and a splash of cream.

This combination offers the appeal of chargrilled chicken with the added depth of a cooked sauce. Ask the restaurant about the current preparation and heat level when ordering.

Gorkhali chicken

The Pearl's menu also features Gorkhali chicken, a Nepalese-inspired speciality prepared with chicken, whole spices, red and green capsicums, dried red chillies, tomatoes and chilli sauce.

It is worth considering if you want to explore flavours beyond the familiar curry-house classics. The combination of spices and chillies makes it particularly relevant for diners who enjoy more pronounced heat.

Pearl Special Biryani

If you cannot decide between a curry and a rice dish, biryani offers a satisfying alternative. The Pearl's menu describes its Pearl Special Biryani as a combination of chicken, lamb and king prawns stir-fried with green peas, onions, cashew nuts, pistachios, almonds and raisins, served with saffron-flavoured basmati rice and a sauce of your choice.

This is a substantial option for diners who enjoy a combination of meat, seafood, aromatic rice and contrasting textures. As it includes several potential allergens, check the restaurant's allergen information before ordering.

Discover more options through The Pearl's food and menu page.

4. Choose the Right Indian Bread

Bread is more than an accompaniment. It can change how you experience a curry, helping you scoop up sauce, adding texture and balancing the flavours of your main dish.

Naan

Naan is a soft, leavened flatbread traditionally cooked in a very hot oven. Its tender texture makes it ideal for scooping up curry sauce. Plain naan is versatile, while garlic naan adds a more pronounced savoury flavour.

Choose plain naan when your main course has a strong flavour of its own. Garlic naan works well when you enjoy the combination of garlic, herbs and rich sauces.

Chapati and roti

Chapati and roti are everyday flatbreads that are generally thinner than naan. They can be a good match for dishes with a thicker sauce or for diners who prefer a less rich bread option.

Names and preparation methods vary by region, so do not assume every restaurant uses them interchangeably. Ask which breads are available and how they are prepared.

Paratha

Paratha is a layered flatbread that can have a flaky texture, depending on the style and preparation. Its richness makes it a satisfying accompaniment to robust curries and grilled dishes.

If you are ordering several dishes for the table, consider one naan and one other bread rather than ordering the same type for everyone. This adds variety without making the meal unnecessarily repetitive.

5. Rice Dishes: More Than Just a Side Order

Rice is one of the most adaptable accompaniments to Indian food. It can provide a neutral base for a strongly flavoured curry or introduce additional fragrance and texture to your meal.

Plain basmati rice

Basmati rice is prized for its long grains and distinctive aroma. Plain basmati is a straightforward choice when you want the flavours of your curry to remain the focus.

It works particularly well with rich sauces because the separate grains provide a light contrast to the consistency of the curry.

Pilau rice

Pilau rice is usually cooked with aromatic ingredients and seasoning, creating a more fragrant accompaniment than plain rice. The exact ingredients vary, but the result can add another layer of flavour to your meal.

Choose pilau when you want your rice to contribute to the overall taste rather than simply provide a base for your curry.

Biryani

Biryani is a rice-based dish in its own right, typically combining seasoned rice with meat, seafood or vegetables and a carefully balanced blend of spices. Different regional traditions use different techniques and ingredients.

Because biryani is often substantial, it can be ordered as a main course rather than alongside another full curry. If you want to share several dishes, consider the portion sizes before ordering both biryani and multiple mains.

6. Add Vegetables and Accompaniments for a Balanced Meal

Vegetable dishes can bring freshness, texture and variety to a meal built around a rich curry. They are also useful when dining with people who have different dietary preferences.

Saag aloo

Saag aloo combines leafy greens with potatoes and spices. Depending on the recipe, the greens may include spinach or other leaves. The potatoes provide substance, while the greens contribute an earthy flavour.

If you would like to understand this dish in more detail, explore our saag aloo curry guide.

Saagwala

Saagwala refers to a dish prepared with leafy greens, commonly spinach. The Pearl's menu describes its chicken or lamb saagwala as a medium-strength sauce featuring garlic, ginger, tomatoes and spinach.

It is an appealing alternative to a conventional tomato-heavy curry if you enjoy the flavour of greens. Ask whether a vegetarian version is available if you do not eat meat.

Raita, chutneys and salads

Yoghurt-based raita can provide a cooling contrast to spicy dishes. Chutneys introduce different flavour profiles, from minty freshness to sweet and tangy notes. A simple salad adds crunch and freshness to a table of cooked dishes.

These accompaniments are especially useful when you are sharing food. Rather than making every dish taste the same, they allow you to change the balance of flavours from one mouthful to the next.

7. How to Order an Indian Meal for Different Occasions

The ideal order depends on who you are dining with, how hungry you are and whether you want to share or have an individual main course.

For a first visit

Start with one familiar starter, such as a samosa or onion bhaji, followed by a curry you already know you enjoy. Add naan or rice and try a small portion of an unfamiliar accompaniment if you feel adventurous.

There is no need to order the hottest curry on the menu to appreciate Indian cooking. Exploring different sauces, herbs and cooking techniques can be just as rewarding.

For couples

A couple can share one or two starters, then order different mains and exchange a few tastes. Choose contrasting dishes, such as a creamy curry and a tomato-based speciality, so that the meal includes more than one flavour profile.

One bread and one rice dish may be enough, depending on your appetite and the portion sizes. If you prefer separate sides, simply adjust the order to suit your preferences.

For families

Families often benefit from ordering a mix of familiar dishes and options that encourage everyone to try something new. A mild curry, a vegetable side, rice and bread provide flexibility for different appetites.

If children are dining with you, check the heat level of each dish rather than assuming that every curry with a creamy sauce will be completely mild. Ask staff for recommendations and mention any allergies before ordering.

For groups and celebrations

Sharing several dishes can make a group meal more sociable. Choose a mixture of starters, grilled items, curries and vegetable sides, with enough rice and bread for the table.

The Pearl also offers facilities for parties and functions. If you are arranging a birthday meal, family gathering or work celebration, visit the official website to explore the restaurant and enquire about arrangements for your group.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Indian Food

A few simple decisions can make the difference between an enjoyable meal and ordering far more than you need.

• Ordering too many mains: Start by estimating how many people are dining and whether dishes will be shared. Add extra items once you understand the portion sizes.

• Choosing everything with the same sauce: Try contrasting flavours and textures rather than ordering several dishes that taste very similar.

• Assuming all curries have the same heat: Spice levels vary by recipe and kitchen. Ask before ordering if heat is important to you.

• Forgetting vegetarian options: Include a vegetable dish or ask about vegetarian mains to give the table more variety.

• Overlooking allergens: Nuts, dairy, gluten, seafood and other allergens may be present in dishes or through cross-contact. Tell the restaurant about allergies and request current allergen information.

• Ordering biryani as well as too many sides: Biryani can be a complete, filling main course. Consider this when planning the rest of your order.

Most importantly, do not hesitate to ask questions. Restaurant staff can help explain unfamiliar dishes, clarify ingredients and recommend options that suit your preferences.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Indian dish for a beginner?

Chicken tikka masala and korma are popular starting points because they are generally approachable in flavour. If you prefer grilled food, consider a tandoori starter. Ask the restaurant about the spice level and ingredients before ordering.

What should I order with an Indian curry?

Naan, chapati, roti and rice are common accompaniments. Choose naan for a soft, substantial bread, chapati or roti for a thinner flatbread, or basmati rice for a simple base. Pilau adds more fragrance, while a vegetable side can introduce additional texture.

Is Indian food always spicy?

No. Indian cuisine includes a wide range of flavours, from mild and creamy dishes to intensely hot curries. The level of chilli depends on the individual recipe. Ask your server for a recommendation if you prefer little or no heat.

Can vegetarians enjoy a meal at an Indian restaurant?

Yes. Many Indian menus include vegetable starters, lentil dishes, potato-based sides and other vegetarian options. However, ingredients and preparation methods differ between restaurants. Confirm that a dish meets your dietary requirements before ordering.

What is the difference between naan and chapati?

Naan is generally a soft, leavened flatbread, while chapati is usually thinner and made from an unleavened dough. Both can accompany curries, but their texture and preparation are different.

How can I find out whether a dish contains nuts or dairy?

Ask the restaurant for its current allergen information and explain the specific allergy before placing your order. Do not rely solely on a dish name or assume that a sauce is free from a particular ingredient.

Can I order Indian food for collection or delivery?

Check The Pearl Restaurant's official website for its current collection and delivery options, offers and ordering information. Availability and terms may change.

Discover Your Next Favourite Dish at The Pearl Restaurant

Ordering Indian food becomes much easier when you understand the different styles of curry, the role of bread and rice, and the variety of starters and vegetable accompaniments available. You can keep things familiar with a classic curry or explore signature dishes that introduce you to different regional influences and cooking techniques.

The Pearl Restaurant in Audenshaw, Manchester, offers a menu featuring traditional favourites and distinctive South Asian specialities. Whether you are planning a relaxed meal for two, a family dinner or a gathering with friends, take a look at the menu and choose a combination that suits your appetite and taste.

Ready to explore the menu? Visit The Pearl's food page, then head to the official website for current opening hours, ordering options and table bookings.