Imli Urban Indian Food
Sutton Place, New York
(170)
Sutton Place, New York
(170)
170 customer reviews
Deborah W.
My family and I were just walking around looking for a restaurant to grab dinner at on a Friday night around 7 PM and we randomly decided to stop into this restaurant. But I'm so glad we did because it turned out to be a great decision. When we arrived, I saw that there are two parts of the restaurant. As soon as you walk through the door you arrive in the bar and are then taken past that and brought to the dining area on the other side. As soon as I walked in, I was impressed by the decor. It was clean, modern but also true to its culture. The setting of each table was also lovely. Service was very professional. Everything was very efficient and well thought out. My only complaint is that the servers all did not have any sort of smiles of their faces which was a bit weird to see in a restaurant. They were polite just not very friendly. After we sat down they brought over some water and complimentary starters and chutney. Flavors were great and really opened my appetite for the rest of the meal. Afterwards for an appetizer we ordered the ratlami proha kabab  which was a croquette and was really delicious, a bit dry and heavy in terms of flavor but was a great order. As for the main course, we got the goa shrimp curry (nice flavor with large, jumbo shrimp) and chicken tikka masala (good flavor). Both dishes were surprisingly filling and really good portions. The complimentary side of rice was also very delicious and just worked so well with the curries. We also ordered the regular naan to go along with our meal which was very fragrant and so yummy. Finally for dessert we got the gulab jamun creme brûlée. Surprisingly this was the most disappointing dish from our meal. The creme brûlée's flavor was great; however the dough ball soaked in syrup was not very good and just felt like it pulled down the flavor of the rest of the dessert. Also the chocolate drizzle had a strange aftertaste as well and was just not needed.All in all, even though there was a couple of hiccups during the dinner it was truly a great experience with generally great dishes. I will definitely try to make my way over the next time I am craving Indian food! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Manpreet D.
This was my first visit there, and we were a party of 11 for dinner to celebrate my wife's birthday. The restaurant is well positioned and street parking was really easy (after 7pm). We had a late reservation, and it was courteous for the manager to call me and inform me about the timings and limitations. Coming to the food. We ordered a huge spread and I must say all of the items were very well cooked and delicious. The ambiance was extremely cosy and we weren't disturbed by any sort of loud music, which is so common in desi restaurants.Will definitely recommened and also visit again. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Veer V.
Been coming here frequently for months and it's all you can ever ask for in Indian cuisine in Manhattan! Don't miss out if you're ever in Upper East Side. Outperforms other coveted Indian restaurants in the area by far, and the new ownership/crew is top-notch and professional. Perfect for individual, small groups, and even larger corporate gatherings. Large portions and cooked to order. Check it out!! Keep it up Imli crew!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Cristina L.
We came here on a Tuesday night around 7pm for dinner. We had a fantastic experience. We were initially at Treadwell but none of us wanted to eat bar food and certainly didn't want to spend $20 for a pretzel. We hopped on yelp and boom -- decided to walk down the street to Imli.What a great decision.The food was delicious from start to finish. There was plenty to go around. The naan was soooooo good. Get the garlic naan. And they gave us more rice when we needed it.Happy hour is at the bar, BUT they let us order happy hour at our table which was awesome.Highly recommend. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Michelle P.
Quick and delicious would definitely come back again. The tikka and garlic naan were great. They're also on seated
Reviewed on Yelp
Carina C.
Nice spot for happy hour. The restaurant smells amazing. The service is friendly, specially at their small bar area. Nice mango mojitos are offered during the summer and their happy hour is a good deal for the area. Grab a drink and make sure to order their samosas. The dough tastes fresh and buttery. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Romeo G.
Went here few nights back for dinner with friends and we were glad we came to eat here. The food was absolutely amazing, no other place has this authenticity on the flavors than this place. Everything we ordered was perfectly cooked and the presentation was beautifully done. And don't even get me started on the drinks, it was by far the best cocktails I've had in an Indian restaurant in NYC, I mean come on the cocktails itself had indian flavors and spices...can't get any better than that. Even If you're not a cocktail drinker I would definitely recommend you to try their drinks. The staff was super professional specially Rex and Dolkar. Rob who is the manager of the place did a fantastic job at taking care of us. He made sure we had the best experience. This spot is definitely on my top 3 Indian restaurants now. We will be back for sure. Can't wait to come back and try some cocktails already. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Luca P.
Very nice experience, food and service. Was there with a group of 8 friends, I had lamb and was delicious. Also their drinks were very good. The waiter was incredibly nice in accommodating any request. I will definitely go back More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Seema S.
Really yummy options, we ordered a lot for 6 people:For drinks, we tried:- Imi-rita - good including strength of alcohol- Mango Chili - a little too spicy but still good- Masala Soda - yummy- Mango Lassi - yummy, perfect thicknessFor appetizers, we had:- Lasooni Gobi - this was probably the weakest item (pretty bland)- Poha Kabob (Potato & rice croquettes) - also tasty- Paneer Tikka - good with some chutney- Kerala Chicken - very goodFor dinner we had:- Choley - yum- Aloo Gobi - yum- Dal Tarka - yum- Bhindi - good sauce but I wish the bhindi was cut into pieces not whole okra- Ghost (Goat) Curry - also good- we also had a few types of bread, rice, and raita - all were very goodFinally for dessert:- rasmalai - came in 3 different flavor, paan, mango, and regular/plain. The mango and plain were good but paan was very strong overwhelming taste- falooda - very good! I don't even like falooda normally but this is a must try- phirni (rice pudding) - on the house and was very goodDefinitely one of the better Indian restaurants in the city, including the nice staff - would come back again! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Ste R.
Selected based on the reviews and because convenient to Lexington 63. Had a reservation for 8 people. The dinner was lovely! Everyone enjoyed the food, even Indian food non-lovers. The restaurant looks neat and refined. The soundtrack doesn't interfere with conversation. The waiters were so kind to light a candle on my friend's dessert as birthday surprise!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Veer V.
Imli never fails to disappoint! The weekend brunch special was recommended to me and I brought my friend for a late morning treat. Loved the variety of food offered in this thali-style arrangement. If you're in the city during the weekend, don't miss Imli's brunch special! Special thanks to Mohammed and Sunil for their 5-star service as always. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Suzanne C.
Four of us went on a Saturday night with no reservation.  They seemed genuinely glad to accommodate us.The meal was superb from the complimentary nan and dipping sauce through all our four entrees. Waitstaff was friendly and attentive to four dithering folks and made great suggestions Restaurant ambience is wonderful.Special note: try the eggplant appetizer. Even our "I don't like eggplant" guy was  snarfing it down! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Eduardo B.
Amazing Indian restaurant with a great environment and music. Attentive and knowledgeable staff. The food was just amazing. Very good price. We will be back and we strongly recommend it More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Sarah D.
My boyfriend and I went here for dinner the other night and the food was amazing. The staff were super friendly and accommodating, the service was excellent, and the food came out timely. On top of that the food was wonderful, would highly recommend the naan and tandoori chicken! Also great drinks, and the prices are not too expensive! Overall great experience! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Neha B.
These guys are amazing! Initially we were running late and they were willing to accommodate us. Then the table we were seated next to were extremely loud. They were kind enough to move us and accommodate us. We have come here a few times and food has been on point! But all these little things add massive amounts to the experience... More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Prashant T.
We went here a month or so ago with work colleagues for a weekday lunch and we had a really good time! We were around 10-12 people and the hosts were very accommodating in handling such a big party. The hosts were really nice, fun to talk to and gave us really good service all though out our lunch. Their prie fixe lunch menu is really good and is good value for money since it comes with 2 appetizers, 1 entree and dessert at the end. Their goat biryani is to die for! One of the best I have had in the city and a must have. We all loved it so much that we definitely plan to visit here again. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Agnag K.
Food is amazing and fresh , good ambiance. Service is good. Definitely I will come back.
Reviewed on Yelp
Rashmi P.
Bold flavors, succulent kebabs, warm buttery naans, Imli is our home away from home when we are craving classic deep flavors of Indian cuisine. Thoughtful service, intimate ambiance and did I mention they deliver and cater too? More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Veer V.
Imli crew goes above and beyond to make you feel part of the family. Best Indian cuisine in town, hands down. If you like the lunch menu, you will LOVE the dinner menu. The spices and flavors are paired amazingly and all members of the Imli crew put their hearts and souls into these dishes and culinary experience. I'm always impressed by the variety of dishes and flavors offered by the lunch special and dinner menu, and the finesse in presentation speaks for itself. Much love and keep it up!!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Patricia G.
Excellent food. Friendly service, generous portions. Been there a fee times and plan on returning.Really enjoyed the variety and quality of the food.
Reviewed on Yelp
J K.
Tried the mango mirchi cocktail (Mango, Tito's, mints and other ingredients) with lukhnowi-Keema(spelling?) today and it was simply the best thing for me, hands down. Thanks to Gary, the bartender who recommended it. I am an Indian but was born in the states and never been to India. I must add that the taste, spice, the texture of the minced red meat was as good as the one you would get at the finest restaurant in India if not better. Five stars. Recommended. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Agnag K.
My friends and family gave me a surprise party at imli restaurant. They have a beautiful  private party space in the back. we were almost 20 people and we tried all appetizers, I really liked the tandoor grilled item most. Dum biryani was  also goo. We had a wonderful time with good music and service was excellent. I highly recommend. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jim N.
Every once in awhile you happen to stumble into a restaurant that you have no preconceived opinions . I had not read any reviews and didn't know what to expect . What I did find was a culinary experience compared to some of the best  restaurants I've been to . The food had depth , complexity , the right amount of heat and resonantly priced . I had a great conversation with the owner who shared his vision and the fact that they have a Michelin star chef !!! Try this restaurant and it will be one of your favorites  . More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Nathalie C.
A (semi) casual date night with hubby turned out to be one of the finest dining experiences I've had in a while. I have more Indian food than I ever write about so I was curious to see how good this really was after so many recommendations. We started with two appetizers-- The Amchur Makai, 2 corn croquettes with potato and ginger and those were delicious with the mint and strawberry sauces. The second appetizer-- The Samosa Chaat was really incredible and I am NOT exaggerating (even for my husband who's someone very hard to impress). You could say they were simple potato and pea samosas but they were tossed with chutney, these crispy noodles, a curd or cream I suspect was yogurt and the entire thing came together so so well. It was super spicy and delicious and probably my favorite dish of the entire night. After that we had the Tandoori chicken tikka with spinach and onions and the slow cooked lamb 'Rohan Josh' which were both tender, one with a dry rub of spices and the other in a creamy curry sauce. Of course, there was soft basmati rice with peas and their garlic naan which was also quite good. I asked for a mango lassi and they recommended cocktails but I am on a no alcohol kick so their sweet bartender Rex actually made us grenadine and lychee mocktails and they were so sweet and refreshing. The fact that he went out of his way to make a cocktail without alcohol for us was really kind and it's a gesture we were impressed by. The entire waiting staff was super attentive and it's really worth mentioning. A+ for fantastic service! Really great flavors, food timing was perfect and such attentive service. 5 stars Imli, we'll be back! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Veer V.
Lamb Curry melts in your mouth - absolutely perfect. Imli crew goes above and beyond to make the experience welcoming and treat their customers to the very best they offer. I'm very impressed by the variety of dishes and flavors offered by the lunch special, and the finesse in presentation. If you're ever find yourself in Upper East Side, do not miss it! I've heard great things about their weekend brunch offering. Keep it up Imli crew, you make my day everyday!!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
A G.
I went with a group of 10 people for lunch and had a great time. The service was very attentive and the food was delicious. The portions on their lunch special are a great value. We will definitely be returning there. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Veer V.
I used to work nearby when this place opened, and it quickly became my lunch place almost daily. I dropped by yesterday for the first time in a year, and while it was amazing before, it's so much more enhanced now! They've hired a fantastic Michelin Star chef and the staff are smiling and very positive. Service is quick and the food is served fresh and warm, and the music boosts your midday spirit. Pictured is the 2 appetizers I chose (tandoori chicken and samosa) and the tandoori chicken is cooked to PERFECTION. I've been to many Indian restaurants in NYC, London, Toronto and this feels like even the most high-end ones. I'm so grateful they can deliver such a high-quality lunch special at an extremely reasonable price. Great atmosphere for corporate lunch gatherings or just bringing a friend. I'll absolutely be a customer at least several times a week. Thank you Chef Beck, Rob, Bushra, Rex, and the whole Imli crew! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Riddhi K.
I have been to this place quite a few times and I want to go back again n again . I love their goat biriyani it is so flavor full and the taste of goat is close to what I used to eat in India , not over spiced , it is just perfect . I have also eaten their malai chicken which was also good . More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Raj B.
When Chef Peter on house then Everything from menu will rock my tempting..Order lasoon gobiMatar paneer Lacha parathaGarlic naan...100% yumminess.
Reviewed on Yelp
David K.
Excellent food. I have eaten there 4-5 times and have yet to be disappointed. Owner or manager is very nice and really working hard to gain more business. He needn't worry and people cone when they know that the food is good. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Samantha E.
Love this spot! The staff are friendly and accommodating and the space is very clean and friendly. They have a large outdoor patio if you'd like some fresh air. We had the lunch special which is a fantastic deal. Two appetizers, entree, daal, rice, naan, and dessert for very inexpensive! So much food - we couldn't even finish it! Everything was fresh, delicious and well prepared. I have previously visited the Indian restaurant across this street but now prefer this one very much. I will certainly be back. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Kevin M.
Imli might have the best Indian food in the city. Creative entrees beyond the standard dishes and great service. Rex did an amazing job taking care of us, and I'll be sure to come back.
Reviewed on Yelp
Jami C.
My husband and I wanted to try some tasty Indian cuisine and this place did not disappoint. We went around 6:00 on a Tuesday and were seated right away. Not busy. Wait staff very attentive. We asked our waitress what we should choose and she went through and explained the menu in detail for us. They inside of the restaurant was also very nice. We ordered the garlic naan, chicken tikka masala and chicken madras. The entrees came with complimentary rice. Honestly there was so much more I wanted to try from the menu but didn't want to go crazy as it was just the two of us. The chicken tikka masala was so good. Absolutely delicious. I would DEFINITELY get this again. The garlic naan-perfect. Delicious. The chicken madras- little more spice. It was good, but would I get it again? Probably not, I would opt to try something else delicious from the menu. My husband and I had left overs today and I'm telling you it just wasn't enough. I am now CRAVING more and can't wait to go back. Will ABSOLUTELY go back. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Rob A.
Food is excellent!! Cocktails are amazing if you are in Upper  East Side NYC you have to go to visit at imli.  staff are very nice they know about the food very well. Place looks very modern with open kitchen. They have a beautiful patio open for all the time. I can't wait to go back.Thsns More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Angel B.
Delicious food, good vibes. Perfect for family dinner plans! Staff is extremely nice and quick.
Reviewed on Yelp
Jackie N.
Love , Love, Love  this place. The service and food are equally delicious. The staff are very welcoming and friendly. The manager Rob is wonderful , he is very attentive, his recommendations on what to eat is spot on. The drinks are delicious. We always sit at the bar and have a great time with the bar staff. This place is a must!!!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Karen H.
Dine in experiences (I've been here a few times) have been nothing short of perfection, the food is amazing here and service is solid. Owner is a young guy who clearly cares about the business and quality of his food. Delivery was also really good for lunch. Don't let the few random bad reviews deter you, this place is legit! Favorite dishes: Chana masala, dal tadka, chicken tikka, fried okra appetizer. I live nearby and hope this place never closes!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Lisa F.
Without any doubt this is the best Indian food I've ever had. Considered to be elevated Indian street food. They have a Michelin star chef and it shows in the quality. So incredibly flavorful. Friendly owner and staff who will guide you to the best dishes for you as well as open you up to new tastes. You must go! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Erin L.
The service and food at Imli are superb! My fiance and I hosted our birthday brunch here and the managers and staff were so accommodating and helpful. Mervyn arranged a fantastic menu for us and the back patio space was perfect for our event. I highly recommend Imli if you want some amazing Indian food - for a nice evening out and for your next gathering! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Sabrina Jhanwar
Delicious food and a wonderful staff. I highly recommend Imli.
Reviewed on Facebook
Jennifer R.
The short: really, really delicious, clean food in a contemporary setting with great staff. The longer: we made a reservation on OpenTable and came here on a Monday evening. The space was super quiet, and our waitress was very nice. We shared a large beer. The menu is a mix of tapas and regular size plates. We started with the tandoori shrimp in a tapas size. Amazing. 3 jumbo shrimps in the order. Then, we shared the okra masala, chicken tikka, dal & some naan. Rice is complimentary -- which I appreciate -- and they give you refills if you need them. The food was all super fresh, wasn't overly oily or creamy, and was generally just very good. It's nice to have such a high-quality, trendy Indian tapas spot in the neighborhood. I highly recommend! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Ted Z.
One of the best Indian restaurants I've ever been and I've been to probably close to 100 in my life. 2 levels above the rest. Their chicken tikka masala is a stand out but you can hardly go wrong with any of their dishes. The sauces and curries have an elegance to them. Ask for the off-menu murgh malai kebab. Yogurt marinated chicken grilled in the tandoor. Spice levels can be adjusted, just ask. Very friendly and helpful wait staff. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Navjot B.
Great place for Indian food, good ambiance and service. The cauliflower tikki was little too spicy for us, but the main course was made to order. Good portion size. Came back full and happy!!! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Kathleen F.
I went to Imli again on Saturday evening, and I ordered the Coconut Curry Shrimp and Vegetable Biriyani. Both dishes were excellent - no regrets!
Reviewed on Yelp
Rima P.
Loved everything I've eaten from here: from the daal to their tandoori chicken to their saag paneer. The imli chat is my favorite.
Reviewed on Yelp
Priyanka S.
This one is fast becoming one of my favorite upper east side Indian spot . The food is very flavorful and has wide variety of non traditional menu items . The decor is very nice and laid back  . The service is on point too. The tapas plates are very innovative and I can't wait to try all of them. Giving it 4 because the cocktail was kind of disappointing. I will definitely go back again for the food . More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Aneesha B.
BEST INDIAN FOOD EVER!!!!! If you're looking for some good food and service I highly recommend you going here. The food is delish and the staff is always so friendly. Me and my family come here at least once a week and anyone that i've recommend this place to has always enjoyed the food and service. The manager is absolutely wonderful and a great host!! Â Highly recommend.. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Lauren H.
Yummy Indian with a steal of a lunch special. Â Only $13 and get four courses including naan, rice and lentils. We've tried most of the dishes on the lunch special menu and my favorite is the eggplant appetizer as well as the chicken appetizer. Â If you're going to get the samosa I'd recommend sticking to the veg samosa because the lamb samosa wasn't very good. Â They are also receptive of you being in a rush and brought out the food in ~10 min at our request. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Gibsonflood ..
Great food. Â Great service. Â Wonderful use of spices. Â Friendly staff. Â Felt like VIPs. Â Chad took care of us. Â And the other staff members came by to check on us. Â Very positive experience.
Reviewed on Yelp
Michael H.
Found this LITTLE GEM of a restaurant/bar near hospital my dad's being treated in. Delightful Ms. T makes First-class margaritas (mango. .!) that are far-too-generously also offered during 5-8pm happy hour ($7). The food is tasty & perfectly presented.. I know a perfect place to celebrate successful medical care of discharge happens during end of a day... Solid five. Â G o !ps Noticed two recent 1/5 stars going on-n-on about a missed delivery(?) Seriously, ppl..... More...
Reviewed on Yelp
