Basant Modern Indian Restaurant

"Basant does fish and chips Indian style, covering its cod in a spice rub before frying and then serving it up with mint chutney and a side of spicy fries. Order online here." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman, Eater Staff

"If you’re in the market for a favorite Indian spot, Basant might be it. This North Center restaurant has a menu full of hits, from starters like mushroom kulcha and jackfruit cutlets, to pork belly vindaloo tonkatsu and spice-rubbed seared lamb chops. Not only is the food really good, but this place works well for a bunch of situations. They make great cocktails and the big, bright dining room is great for both group dinners and casual date nights. Oh, and there’s a covered sidewalk patio. So unless you just don’t like eating delicious things, there are very few scenarios where Basant isn’t a good option." - adrian kane, veda kilaru, john ringor

"“Pork belly achari” isn’t a dish Chicagoans will find often, but customers can find this and other modern Indian takes at Basant in North Center. The Fish Basant, a salmon cooked in coconut milk and tomato sauce, is another star at the restaurant. They also have a tandoor Cornish hen and gulab jamun cheesecake." - Ashok Selvam

"Basant takes a more modern approach to Indian food. That may alienate folks used to North Indian buffets, but if they pause a little and breathe (and inhale the wonderful aromas), they’ll feel right at home. For instance, diners won’t find a traditional tandoori chicken. They opt for Cornish hen for a richer flavor." - Eater Staff, Ashok Selvam

"This North Center restaurant has a menu full of hits, from starters like mushroom kulcha and tamarind-glazed sweet potato chaat, to creamy lamb gustaba and smoky eggplant bharta. Not only is the food really good, but this place works well for a bunch of situations - including having dinner with two people that still make you slightly nervous. They make great cocktails, and have a bright, spacious dining room Oh, and there’s a covered sidewalk patio. So unless you just don’t like eating delicious things, there are very few scenarios where Basant isn’t a good option." - adrian kane