Best Indian Food in San Jose

Q: Where are you located?

We are located in San Jose, CA at 5825 Cottle Rd

Fennel in the Rice. Fire in the Tandoor.

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South San Jose's Neighborhood Indian Restaurant

Traditional curries, tandoori from a live fire, and a lunch buffet that regulars plan their week around.

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The All-You-Can-Eat Lunch Buffet

Enjoy a flavorful midday escape at Emperor of India with a delicious lunch buffet served Monday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. From freshly baked naan to rich curries and authentic Indian favorites, every visit brings a satisfying dine-in experience perfect for lunch breaks, family outings, or casual gatherings.

About the Buffet

Elegant by Design, Comfortable by Nature

Rich dark wood and warm lighting create a setting that feels both polished and welcoming. Whether you're at the bar or tucked into the dining room, it's a space that invites you to slow down and enjoy.

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From the Kitchen

A San Jose Tradition Built on Flavor & Community

For over a decade, Emperor of India has been one of South San Jose’s most beloved neighborhood restaurants — a place where authentic Indian cooking, warm hospitality, and loyal regulars come together every single day. Located on Cottle Road, this local favorite has earned its reputation not through trends or advertising, but through consistently unforgettable meals and genuine care for every guest who walks through the door.

What our guests are saying

We’ve come for the lunch buffet a few times over the past couple years. Everything was perfect. Everything was fresh and frequently refilled. Great variety and selection. Will definitely come back again. I love that they change up desserts every once in a while.

Guzin U.

This is by far the best Indian food in the area—I don’t eat Indian anywhere else (and I’m of Indian descent and a super picky eater!). The shahi paneer is *chef’s kiss*—I usually get it without the paneer because the gravy alone is incredible. And the garlic naan? Absolutely addictive.

Priya O.

Excellent service and delicious food. The staff were so welcoming and friendly and the food was so yummy and satisfying. We had veggie samosas to start and our entrees were the chicken tikka masala, shrimp kebab & daal tadka. The tikka masala was absolutely incredible.

James M.

Very good ambience, excellent service and equally good food. We were a group of 12 with few kids and were treated well. No complains and would surely visit again. Hyderabadi lamb was very nice, soft and nice texture. Malai tikka could be little soft and creamy but no issued with other things we ordered. Kids enjoyed as well. Chef and staff were visiting repeatedly to ask if everything's ok, nice gesture. Appreciate the service. Cheers.