Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most loved Indian dishes across the United States. Known for its rich tomato-based gravy, creamy texture, mild spices, and tender chicken, butter chicken has become a comfort food for many Americans. California, with its diverse food culture and large Indian diaspora, is home to some of the best butter chicken restaurants in the country.
From Los Angeles and the Bay Area to Central Valley highway stops, you’ll find authentic North Indian flavors as well as modern twists on this classic dish. Below is a carefully curated list of the top 10 restaurants for butter chicken in California in 2026, based on popularity, customer reviews, consistency, and authenticity.
1. India’s Grill – Los Angeles
India’s Grill is widely considered one of the best Indian restaurants in Los Angeles. Their butter chicken stands out for its deep tomato flavor, perfectly balanced creaminess, and soft, well-marinated chicken pieces. Served with fresh naan or basmati rice, this dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Why it stands out:
- Rich, restaurant-style gravy
- Authentic Punjabi flavor
- Generous portion size
2. Curry In Hurry – Los Angeles
Curry In Hurry is a casual Indian eatery known for delivering high-quality food at affordable prices. Their butter chicken is smooth, mildly spiced, and consistently flavorful, making it ideal for first-time Indian food lovers.
Why it stands out:
- Budget-friendly
- Great for quick meals
- Consistent taste and quality
3. Copper Chimney – San Francisco
Copper Chimney brings classic North Indian cuisine to the heart of San Francisco. Their butter chicken follows a traditional recipe with slow-cooked gravy, butter, cream, and aromatic spices.
Why it stands out:
- Traditional North Indian preparation
- Excellent pairing with naan
- Popular in the Bay Area
4. Urban Punjab – Garden Grove (Orange County)
Urban Punjab is known for its royal Punjabi-style cooking. Their butter chicken is rich, indulgent, and slightly smoky, closely resembling the flavors found in North India.
Why it stands out:
- Authentic Punjabi taste
- Premium ingredients
- Elegant dining experience
5. 99 Punjabi Dhaba – Central Valley
A legendary highway stop, 99 Punjabi Dhaba is famous for its authentic dhaba-style Indian food. Their butter chicken is hearty, bold, and rustic, making it a must-try for long-distance travelers.
Why it stands out:
- Dhaba-style flavor
- Extremely popular with travelers
- Excellent value for money
6. Punjabi Dhaba – Bakersfield
This Bakersfield favorite delivers homestyle Indian food with strong flavors. The butter chicken here is creamy yet spicy enough to satisfy those who prefer traditional Indian heat levels.
Why it stands out:
- Homestyle cooking
- Strong spice balance
- Loved by locals
7. Taste of India – Visalia
Taste of India is a smaller but highly rated Indian restaurant offering freshly prepared dishes. Their butter chicken is smooth, mildly sweet, and pairs beautifully with naan and jeera rice.
Why it stands out:
- Freshly prepared food
- Balanced cream and tomato flavor
- Calm, family-friendly atmosphere
8. Taste of India – Santa Nella
Popular with road-trippers, this restaurant offers reliable and comforting Indian meals. Their butter chicken has a rich gravy and tender chicken, making it one of the best options along California highways.
Why it stands out:
- Consistent taste
- Convenient location
- Generous servings
9. Angara Indian Restaurant – Torrance
Angara is known for modern Indian flavors with traditional roots. Their butter chicken is silky, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced, appealing to both Indian and non-Indian diners.
Why it stands out:
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Excellent naan pairing
- Modern presentation
10. Doaba Foods – Tracy
Doaba Foods specializes in North Indian Punjabi cuisine. Their butter chicken is rich, comforting, and full of authentic flavors, making it a favorite in California’s Central Valley.
Why it stands out:
- Authentic Punjabi recipe
- Family-style portions
- Excellent spice balance
What Makes Butter Chicken Truly Great?
A top-quality butter chicken dish usually has:
- Tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices
- A tomato-butter gravy cooked slowly
- Perfect balance of cream, sweetness, and spice
- No overpowering oil or artificial flavors
The best restaurants maintain consistency while preserving traditional cooking methods.
Best Cities in California for Butter Chicken
- Los Angeles – Largest variety of Indian restaurants
- San Francisco Bay Area – Traditional and modern Indian cuisine
- Central Valley – Authentic dhaba-style flavors
Final Thoughts
California offers some of the finest butter chicken experiences in the USA. Whether you prefer a traditional Punjabi taste, a creamy mild version, or a rustic dhaba-style curry, there’s a restaurant on this list for you. These top 10 butter chicken spots continue to attract food lovers in 2026 due to their authenticity, quality, and consistency.
Before visiting, it’s always recommended to check availability and spice levels, as recipes may vary slightly by location.