When you think of Niagara Falls, the first things that come to mind might be the thunderous waterfalls, the dazzling nightlife, or the family-friendly attractions. But tucked away just steps from the roar of the falls is one of the most flavorful journeys your tastebuds can take , a journey through authentic Indian cuisine at Passage to India.
For first-time diners, Indian food may seem intimidating , full of unknown spices, complex names, and a reputation for being too spicy. But don’t worry. At Passage to India, we’ve created the perfect starting point for anyone who’s never tried Indian food before or who wants to explore it in a more accessible, delicious way.
What Makes a Great Beginner Indian Dish?
If you’re new to Indian cuisine, you’re probably wondering what dishes are best to start with. The good news is, there’s something for everyone. The best Indian dishes for beginners are typically those that use mild, creamy sauces, include familiar proteins like chicken or paneer (Indian cheese), and can be eaten with rice or bread. They strike a perfect balance between rich flavors and a gentle heat level, making them ideal for newcomers.
Here are some key elements to look for in beginner dishes:
- Mild to medium spice levels (easily adjustable)
- Saucy dishes that are smooth and comforting
- Popular dishes known internationally
- Flexible side options, like naan or basmati rice
- Vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free choices
Top Tourist Picks at Passage to India , Niagara Falls
| 🍽️ Item | 💬 Why It’s Great at Our Restaurant | 🛒 Buy Online / Visit |
| Butter Chicken | We serve rich, creamy butter chicken made with tandoor-grilled chicken in a smooth tomato-butter sauce. Tourists love its mild spice, comforting texture & consistency. | 👉 Order Online or visit us |
| Vegetable Biryani | Fragrant basmati rice cooked with garden-fresh vegetables & whole spices. Served with raita. Light yet satisfying , a favorite among vegetarian travelers. | 👉 Pre-order online or walk in |
| Paneer Butter Masala | Our soft Indian paneer is simmered in butter sauce that rivals butter chicken , perfect for vegetarians. Loved for its rich flavor and non-spicy profile. | 👉 Order from our menu |
| Garlic Naan | Hand-stretched, tandoor-baked naan brushed with garlic & butter. Soft, flavorful, and perfect with any curry. A must-have side tourists order again and again. | 👉 Order Online or visit us |
| Chicken Tikka | Juicy chunks of chicken marinated in yogurt & spices, grilled to perfection. Served sizzling. Tourists love it as a light, flavorful, non-saucy option. | 👉 Pre-order online or walk in |
| Gulab Jamun | Deep-fried milk balls soaked in rose-scented syrup. Sweet, warm, and comforting , a favorite for tourists looking to end on a sweet note. | 👉 Ask for it with your meal or order online |
Chicken-Based Indian Dishes
One of the most popular ways to begin exploring Indian cuisine is through chicken dishes. Chicken is a protein that most people are comfortable with, and Indian restaurants like Passage to India offer a wide range of mild, flavorful chicken options.
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
If there’s one dish that wins over first-timers time and time again, it’s Butter Chicken. Made from marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor and then simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, this dish is both comforting and luxurious. It’s slightly sweet, perfectly spiced, and incredibly satisfying. Served with basmati rice or garlic naan, this dish is a safe and enjoyable introduction to Indian food.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Similar to butter chicken but with a bolder, slightly spicier tomato base, Chicken Tikka Masala is made with chunks of grilled chicken simmered in a savory, tangy curry sauce. It’s one of the most loved Indian dishes worldwide and for good reason. While still very approachable, it offers a slightly deeper spice profile that you can adjust to your comfort level.
Chicken Korma
For those who prefer something entirely mild, Chicken Korma is the way to go. Made with cashews, yogurt, and cream, it delivers a subtle, nutty flavor without heat. It’s great for people who enjoy creamy sauces like Alfredo or gravy-based dishes.
🥦 Vegetarian Indian Dishes That Even Meat Lovers Will Enjoy
Indian cuisine has an incredibly strong vegetarian tradition, which means you’ll find a wealth of satisfying meat-free dishes that don’t feel like you’re missing anything. In fact, these dishes are often favorites for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Paneer Butter Masala
This is essentially butter chicken, but made with paneer, a soft, chewy Indian cottage cheese. The same creamy, tomato-based sauce makes it familiar and enjoyable, especially when scooped up with warm naan bread.
Saag Paneer
A dish made with spinach (saag) and paneer, this one’s smooth, hearty, and iron-rich. The bright green color may catch your eye, but the flavor is mild and inviting. It’s healthy, comforting, and packed with flavor from garlic, cumin, and ghee.
Chana Masala
A great option if you’re looking to explore plant-based protein. Chana masala is a chickpea curry that’s rich in flavor but light on spice. It’s hearty, tangy, and goes beautifully with rice or roti.
Aloo Gobi
This dry curry made from cauliflower and potatoes is a hidden gem for first-timers. It’s spiced with turmeric, cumin, and coriander, aromatic but not hot. It’s also a great side dish with chicken or dal.
Tandoori and Grilled Favorites
Not all Indian food comes in a bowl. Some of the most beloved dishes are grilled in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor. These tandoori dishes are often dry (not saucy) and focus on smoky, marinated flavors.
Chicken Tikka
Boneless chicken pieces marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices, then grilled until juicy and slightly charred. Think of it as India’s answer to BBQ chicken, flavorful but not saucy.
Tandoori Chicken
This dish features bone-in chicken marinated in spices and roasted until the skin is crisp. It’s bold in color (thanks to paprika and chili powder) but not overwhelming in flavor.
Rice & Biryani
Indian rice dishes are anything but plain. They’re fluffy, aromatic, and often flavored with spices, saffron, or herbs.
Vegetable Biryani
Fragrant basmati rice cooked with vegetables and whole spices like cardamom and cloves. It’s light, colorful, and served with raita, a yogurt-based side that helps cool your palate.
Chicken or Lamb Biryani
This layered dish is rich, aromatic, and often reserved for special occasions. At Passage to India, we keep it beginner-friendly, offering biryani that’s flavorful but not overpowering.
Experience It All at Passage to India, Niagara Falls
If you’re looking for your first Indian meal, you don’t need to travel across the world, just take a short walk from the Falls. Passage to India offers authentic, beginner-friendly Indian food with all the warmth, spice, and comfort you’re looking for.
From creamy curries to sizzling tandoori dishes, soft naan to sweet gulab jamun, our menu has been designed to welcome newcomers while still satisfying longtime fans of Indian cuisine.
📍 Visit us today at 5546 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls
📞 Call us at 905-371-3444
