Bengal Tiger NYC: A Cozy North Indian Haven in Midtown Manhattan

Introduction: A North Indian Culinary Gem in the Heart of NYC

In a city known for constant reinvention and food fusion, Bengal Tiger remains refreshingly authentic. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this cozy restaurant offers a menu rooted in classic North Indian cuisine—full of rich flavors, soulful spices, and time-honored recipes.

Rated 4.5/5 across review platforms, Bengal Tiger doesn’t rely on gimmicks or decor trends. Instead, it wins hearts through consistency, hospitality, and the kind of comfort food that keeps guests coming back. Whether you’re on your lunch break or showing NYC to an out-of-town guest, this spot never disappoints.

Ambience: Comfortably Simple, Purposefully Warm

Step inside Bengal Tiger and you’ll notice the vibe is low-key but inviting. No neon lights or modernist chandeliers—just cozy booths, clean décor, and soft music that lets the aroma of simmering curries do all the talking.

The restaurant is ideal for solo diners, date nights, office groups, and families. With its no-fuss interiors, it draws attention to what truly matters: flavor and experience.

Appetizers: A Familiar and Flavorful Start

The appetizer list introduces diners to the foundations of North Indian spice blends. You’ll find vegetarian and meat options, all prepared fresh.

• Vegetable Samosas: Flaky pastry triangles filled with seasoned potatoes and peas.

• Paneer Tikka: Grilled cubes of Indian cottage cheese marinated in yogurt and spices.

• Chicken Malai Tikka: Creamy, tender chicken bites grilled in a clay oven.

• Onion Bhaji: Crispy onion fritters, golden-brown and served with mint chutney.

Each dish is accompanied by house-made chutneys—cool mint and tangy tamarind—to balance the spice.

Tandoori Magic: Baked to Perfection

Bengal Tiger’s tandoor oven is the heart of the kitchen. The tandoori section of the menu offers:

• Tandoori Chicken (Half/Full): Juicy and charred, marinated overnight in yogurt and spices.

• Lamb Seekh Kebab: Minced lamb with herbs, cooked on skewers to smoky perfection.

• Tandoori Mixed Grill: A sampler of chicken, lamb, and seafood for those who want it all.

• Salmon Tikka: Fresh salmon marinated in a zesty masala, offering a unique seafood twist.

Every bite of tandoori meat is juicy, spiced, and infused with that signature clay-oven aroma.

Mains: Rich, Creamy, Spiced, and Soulful

Where Bengal Tiger truly shines is in its signature North Indian curries. Each dish is built on layers of onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and freshly ground spices, creating depth and warmth in every bite.

Top Meat-Based Curries:

• Butter Chicken: A favorite for a reason—tender chicken in a buttery, creamy tomato sauce.

• Chicken Tikka Masala: A slightly spicier take with grilled chicken chunks.

• Lamb Rogan Josh: A Kashmiri-style curry made with yogurt, cloves, and cinnamon.

• Goat Curry: Bone-in goat slow-cooked with robust masala and herbs.

Vegetarian Favorites:

• Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach cooked with cubes of paneer. Nutritious and filling.

• Chana Masala: Chickpeas simmered in a tangy tomato and onion base.

• Dal Makhani: Black lentils stewed for hours with butter and cream.

• Aloo Gobi: A dry curry of cauliflower and potatoes, lightly spiced with turmeric and cumin.

All curries come with a side of steamed basmati rice, but you’ll want to order extra naan to scoop up every last bit.

Breads & Rice Dishes: Perfect Companions

You can’t talk about North Indian food without praising the bread and rice that complete each meal:

• Naan (Plain, Garlic, Butter)

• Tandoori Roti (Whole wheat, clay-baked)

• Lachha Paratha (Layered flatbread)

• Stuffed Kulchas (Onion, Paneer)

Rice options include:

• Biryani (Chicken, Lamb, or Veg): Aromatic basmati rice layered with meat and spices.

• Jeera Rice: Basmati rice tempered with cumin seeds.

• Peas Pulao: A light rice dish with green peas and mild spices.

Lunch Specials: Quick, Affordable, and Satisfying

Bengal Tiger offers one of Midtown’s best-kept secrets: a weekday lunch special that includes:

• An entrée (veg or non-veg)

• Basmati rice or naan

• Salad and sometimes dessert

• Prices ranging from $13–$17

Perfect for a quick work lunch that doesn’t skimp on quality or quantity.

Desserts: Sweet Notes from Home

Finish your meal with classic Indian desserts that feel just like home:

• Gulab Jamun: Soft milk balls in rose-scented syrup.

• Kheer: Creamy rice pudding with cardamom and raisins.

• Rasmalai: Spongy cheese discs soaked in saffron-infused milk.

The dessert menu is small but impactful, and a sweet end to the spice-laden journey.

Beverages: Simple and Soothing

While Bengal Tiger doesn’t have an alcohol license, they offer traditional Indian beverages:

• Mango Lassi – Sweet, cold yogurt drink blended with ripe mangoes.

• Masala Chai – Indian tea steeped with spices and milk.

• Salted Lassi & Buttermilk – For the purists.

• Soft Drinks & Sparkling Water

Service & Hospitality: Efficient and Sincere

The staff at Bengal Tiger are well-trained, polite, and eager to explain the menu. Whether you’re a newcomer to Indian food or a seasoned diner, the servers can help you pick something aligned with your spice and dietary preferences.

They manage the lunch crowd swiftly and offer more personalized attention during dinner service.

Accessibility & Hours

Address: 58 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 265-2703
Website: https://bengaltigernyc.com
Hours:

• Monday–Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
  Services:

• Dine-in

• Takeout

• Delivery (via Uber Eats, DoorDash, Seamless)

Pricing Overview

• Appetizers: $6–$10

• Mains: $14–$20

• Tandoori Platters: $16–$25

• Desserts: $4–$7

• Lunch Specials: $13–$17

Considering the Midtown location and portion size, prices are extremely fair.

Who Should Visit Bengal Tiger?

• Midtown professionals looking for hearty lunch

• Indian expats seeking authentic taste

• NYC tourists craving quality ethnic food

• Students, couples, and families who appreciate value dining

• First-timers exploring Indian cuisine

Conclusion: A North Indian Classic in the Big Apple

Bengal Tiger proves that sometimes, the most unassuming places deliver the most rewarding experiences. With its flavorful North Indian dishes, warm service, and cozy interiors, it’s a consistent favorite among those who value comfort and authenticity over glitz.