Urban Curry, San Francisco

Separated from India and Nepal by half a world, Urban Curry brings highlights of the two countries' revered culinary traditions to the local area. Standing out from from the pack with dishes such as Nepalese momo dumplings and a daily fish curry, The San Francisco Chronicle took notice and hailed the eatery as a restaurant that’s “worth finding." Here, the chefs remain faithful to tradition whenever possible, making paneer cheese in house, using only halal meats, and importing spices directly from India and Pakistan. Standouts include aromatic curries and tandoor-roasted meats—yet they don’t rule here exclusively. The menu’s large selection of vegetarian-friendly items incorporate many of the same unmistakable flavors.

Once inside the restaurant, it’s easy to forget you’re not actually dining on the other side of the world. Sconces gently light the shadow-dense room, and gilt-framed paintings and white linens make for a vibe that feels lifted from history books.