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Star of India Restaurant

4.6
·491k reviews·,

Arkansas's first Indian restaurant, known for its legendary buffet, unique dishes, and owner Sami Lal's famously warm welcome.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
New decor

Star of India Restaurant

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Arkansas's first Indian restaurant, known for its legendary buffet, unique dishes, and owner Sami Lal's famously warm welcome.

4.6
(491k reviews)

""Star of India is by far the most delicious and great choices. Thanks, Sammy and all the kind service.""

TIP

Visit During Buffet Hours

Enjoy an affordable and diverse dining experience with the lunch buffet.

Try Unique Dishes

Explore authentic Indian flavors beyond the usual regional favorites.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens 5PM

Cuisine

Indian

Price

Mid-range

Phone

(501) 227-9900

Address

301 N Shackleford Rd, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Lunch Buffet

Legendary Lunch Buffet

An abundant spread of fresh curries, samosas, chicken tikka masala, and naan. A true taste of India!

Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right Now7 Must-Try: All-You-Can-Eat Buffets in Little Rock, AR
Owner's Warm Welcome

Owner's Warm Welcome

Experience truly personal service as the owner greets you by name, making you feel right at home.

Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right NowA Local’s Guide to What’s New in Little Rock, Arkansas15 Food Experiences That are Uniquely Little Rock+1
Authentic Indian Flavors

Authentic Indian Flavors

Savor unique Indian dishes distinct from typical Midwest offerings, prepared with care and tradition.

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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you’re looking for some of the best Indian Food in Little Rock look no further than the Star of India!!! #india #food #foodie #foodtiktok #aaronfarris #gravelyardband #foodblogger
@gravelyardband
5K likes • 103.3K views

Visit During Buffet Hours

Enjoy an affordable and diverse dining experience with the lunch buffet.

Try Unique Dishes

Explore authentic Indian flavors beyond the usual regional favorites.

Star of India in LR Arkansas! #littlerock #arkansas #starofindia @Trentdad
@yume77028
4 likes • 207 views
Finally tried Indian food. Restaurant is Star of India located in Little Rock, AR. Staff was very nice and the lunch special came with ice cream 🔥#fyp #review #food #Indianfood #foryoupage
@beatbyla
67 likes • 3.9K views

Chat with the Owner

Learn about Sami Lal's cooking style for a truly personalized and memorable experience.

Garlic Naan is a Must

Don't miss the delicious garlic naan, a popular accompaniment to the flavorful dishes.

Food and customer service was 10/10!! 🤩🤩 #littlerockfood #littlerock #india #indianfood #food
@mia.mendoza13
117 likes • 5.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Visit During Buffet Hours

Enjoy an affordable and diverse dining experience with the lunch buffet.

Try Unique Dishes

Explore authentic Indian flavors beyond the usual regional favorites.

Chat with the Owner

Learn about Sami Lal's cooking style for a truly personalized and memorable experience.

Garlic Naan is a Must

Don't miss the delicious garlic naan, a popular accompaniment to the flavorful dishes.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Star of India is celebrated for its authentic flavors, warm and personal service from the owner, and a legendary lunch buffet. While most diners rave about the delicious curries, naan, and welcoming atmosphere, a few have noted that certain dishes could be spicier or that prices might be a bit high for the portion size.

"Star of Indian is a hidden gem in west Little Rock. The staff is always warm and friendly and the food is ready quickly. I ordered the butter chicken which was very flavorful and tender! The vegetable samosas were very crispy and the mint and tamarind sauces were phenomenal! Their garlic naan was very yummy as well. The butter chicken was a little less thick than I usually like but other than that it was wonderful!"

Devin Williamson

"The starter was excellent. The padad and chutneys were so good. The food wasn’t spicy and I wished it had more spice in the biryani. It was really good with the chili chutney thiugh. But the service was so welcoming and inviting."

Chioma Ogbuka

"The service was excellent—they frequently checked in to see if we needed anything. The mango lassi was outstanding, and both the mixed appetizer and mixed grill are great choices if you want to sample a variety of items. The chicken Achari was especially delicious and paired well with rice, biryani, and naan.

The only drawback was the biryani—it tasted more like methi rice than traditional biryani. While it was still flavorful, the spice level we requested as medium felt milder than expected."

ThamaraiSelvan

What People Like

Warm, personalized service from the owner
Authentic and flavorful Indian dishes
Legendary lunch buffet

What People Dislike

Spice levels sometimes milder than expected
Occasional concerns about portion size vs. price

Frequently Asked Questions

It's known for being Arkansas's first Indian restaurant, its legendary lunch buffet, and the owner's exceptionally warm, personalized welcome.

Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right NowA Local’s Guide to What’s New in Little Rock, Arkansas15 Food Experiences That are Uniquely Little Rock

Yes, they offer a legendary lunch buffet featuring a variety of fresh curries, samosas, chicken tikka masala, naan, and more.

Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right Now7 Must-Try: All-You-Can-Eat Buffets in Little Rock, AR

Yes, the restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with specific mentions of cashew masala and paneer tikka masala.

4 Indian Restaurants Worth the Drive Near Little Rock, AR – Crain Ford of Little Rock Blog

While not explicitly stated, the owner's personal welcome suggests a friendly atmosphere. For busy times, it might be wise to call ahead.

Try unique Indian dishes that differ from typical offerings found in other regions of the US Midwest, or ask the owner about his personal style.

Best Restaurants in Little Rock Arkansas By Kat Robinson

The service is consistently described as warm, friendly, welcoming, and attentive, with the owner often personally greeting guests.

Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right NowGoogle Review+4

Generally considered mid-range, with some reviews noting that certain dishes or portions might be considered a bit pricey.

Google Review+1

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Best Restaurants in Little Rock, AR: Great Places to Eat Right Now

Open since 1993, it is beloved by locals and heralded for its warm and friendly service. Owner Sami Lal is likely to welcome you “home” as you come in the door, and thanks to his photographic memory he will never forget your face. The lunch buffet is legendary, as are the fresh curries, samosas, chicken tikka masala, and naan.

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Service: Dine in Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $10–20 patio is in the front of the building, next to th Read more Guillermo's Gourmet Coffee / Coffee house, Desserts #6 of 2369 places to eat in Little Rock Compare THREE FOLD NOODLES AND DUMPLING CO, Little … Web# 2 of 2376 places to eat in Little Rock $$$$ Vegetarian Closed today Nothing Bundt Cakes Order online # 5 of 2376 places to eat in Little Rock $$$$ Dessert Closed today ZAZA : Little Rock # 7 of 2376 places to eat in Little Rock $$$$ Pizza Closed today Star of India Restaurant Order online # 8 of 2376 places to eat in Little Rock $$$$ Indian electromagnetic induction solved problems The 10 best vegan restaurants in Little Rock Vegetarian Restaurants in Little Rock, Little Rock - Zomato Vegan Restaurants in Arkansas, USA - HappyCow Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Little Rock, AR WebAug 25, 2022 · The Root Cafe is a small, upcycled American restaurant that serves vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes sourced from small Arkansas farms. … electromagnetic induction spectroscopy Web#9 of 539 seafood restaurants in Little Rock Compare Closed todayOpens at 11AM tomorrow Seafood, Cajun, Southern, Creole, Vegetarian options $$$$ Decided to go in there after checking some good reviews from fellow yelpers. Read more Order online Grampa's Catfish & Seafood / Seafood #10 of 539 seafood restaurants in Little Rock … Best breakfast restaurants in Little Rock, spring 2023 - Restaurant … The Best Food in Little Rock Restaurants - Food … Best italian restaurants in Little Rock, spring 2023 WebMar 17, 2022 · Blue Sage Vegan Bistro Ottenheimer Hall, 420 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock.

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When I’m in town, I try to cycle through my favorite spots: Lindsey’s, located a hop over into North Little Rock and serving saucy, melt-in-your-mouth barbecue since 1956 (you’ll likely give your order to owner Donnie Lindsey or his wife Eleanor at the counter); Arthur’s for the best steak and special-occasion ambience, the brainchild of Little Rock food scene fixture Jerry Barakat (who did the food at my parents’ wedding); Star of India, the state’s first Indian restaurant, run by larger-than-life personality Sami Lal, who knows his customers by name and always brings me a mango lassi; Trio’s, where eating the Peck Salad for lunch justifies ordering one of their beloved seasonal desserts (the strawberry shortcake is an annual hit).

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Their best business is in beef and goats, and Layla’s even supplies halal goat meat to the restaurants Taj Mahal and Taste of India. Hamwi says they go through about 400 to 500 pounds of meat a week and sell 90 percent of the inventory regularly. While we’re standing there, a young Chinese Muslim woman walks in with a considerable order — 2 pounds of ground beef, 10 pounds of beef “with bone” (a Layla’s speciality — nobody cuts beef with the bone in anymore), and 5 pounds of lamb “with the spine,” meaning chops.

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Located Downtown in the old Sweden cream building, The Root is a tremendously popular farm-to-table breakfast and lunch spot that offers a number of delicious vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. They source 100% of the meat, eggs, and bread they serve, as well as the majority of their vegetables, fruits, nuts, and cheeses from small farms and producers in Arkansas. Menu highlights include eggs banh mi, house-made brats and burgers, and sweet potato fries.

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Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of India at Star of India, a beloved establishment celebrated for its authentic and diverse lunch buffet. Embark on a culinary exploration of aromatic curries, fragrant biryanis, succulent tandoori meats, and a colorful assortment of vegetarian delicacies. The buffet is a true testament to the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine, offering a delightful experience for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers.

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For 20 years, Sami Lal has played host and chef at his pink-walled establishment on the west side of town. Known for its consistency and Sami’s fantastic memory (visit once and he will never forget to welcome you by name whenever you return), Star of India excels in Northern Indian cuisine. The kormas are legendary; and for a real treat, try the Vegetarian Delight with its many small dishes.

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Star of India Restaurant, at 301 N Shackleford Road Suite C4, is a legacy player on the Little Rock culinary scene, serving hungry patrons for 30 years. It’s got some fantastic vegetarian options, including cashew masala and paneer tikka masala, plus super fresh naan bread studded with plenty of garlic. You’ll also find more familiar favorites like beef curry.

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Most Indian food lovers will agree that Star of India does it at least as well as any restaurant in town. But it’s not the food itself that makes Star so unique. Owner Sami Lal charms you as soon as you step foot inside his restaurant and remembers your name (and order) the next time you come back, whether that’s the next day or the next year.

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Serving up authentic North Indian cuisine since 1993, Star of India has stolen the hearts of Little Rock locals from the start and is a must-eat. Hidden gems like Verona Italian Restaurant in Conway, India Cafe in Bryant, La Terraza Rum & Lounge and Zangna Thai Cuisine in Little Rock mean there is so much more to enjoy across the Metro.

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One of the capital city's most beloved Indian restaurants, Star of India in Little Rock offers an amazing array of cuisine in their lunch buffet. What's especially nice at the Star of India (aside from the lovely decor and atmosphere) is the friendly service. Diners are welcomed with a smile and polite conversation every time!

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About: The first Indian restaurant in Arkansas, offering classic Indian dishes. Chef Profile: Founder and Chef Sami Lal is renowned for his dedication to authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality. Customer Experience: Diners often praise the lunch buffet for its variety and taste, highlighting it as a must-try experience.

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Known for their use of exotic spices, herbs, and rich flavors, Star of India has been open since 1993 and the chef has over 32 years of experience. Along with their traditional meat dishes, vegetarian options are available. Along with your delicious meal, the atmosphere of the restaurant will make your whole evening special.

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Star of India has the distinction of being the state’s first Indian restaurant when it opened in 1993. Owner Sami Lal offers a warm welcome to all, and the food is undeniably good. Come for the lunch buffet, which features tasty traditional dishes such as tandoori chicken, vegetable biryani, chicken tikka masala, and more.

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Chicken Korma at Star of India – I admit, I’m not much of an expert on Indian food. But eating this tangy, earthy plate from Sami Lai, it’s hard not to imagine this is what would be served to a child with the sniffles in Northern India. It just makes you feel warm and cozy, and that’s what comfort food does best.

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Star of India has the distinction of being the state’s first Indian restaurant when it opened in 1993. The owner is Sami Lal, and the food is undeniably good. Come for the lunch buffet, which features tasty traditional dishes such as tandoori chicken, vegetable biryani, chicken tikka masala, and more.

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A post shared by Star of India Restaurant & Bar (@lrstarofindia). Serving Indian cuisines since the year 1993, Star of India has over three decades of experience in serving the people with the spiciest and most flavorful dishes. They serve beef, lamb, chicken, goat, fish, and a variety of vegetables.

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Star of India: If you’ve never walked into the Star of India before, don’t be startled by a loud “Welcome home!. ” from owner and chef Sami Lal. He and his staff will make your experience memorable and exciting with attentive service and special attention to how you prefer your meal to be prepared.

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If you're looking fast and delicious Indian food, the Star of India is a fantastic place for lunch or a quick dinner. They offer a buffet of fresh and tasty classics along with spiced house-made Naan bread. You can also order your favorite dishes off the menu and there's always plenty to take home.

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Located in Westchase Plaza, Star of India Restaurant is a strip-mall storefront restaurant offering a variety of authentic Indian dishes as a lunch buffet or dinner menu. This is frankly the best Indian lunch in the city. The restaurant may be small, but it has a lovely ambiance.

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The fact that it was included into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame in 2021 should give you a clue. Whether for the lauded lunch buffet or their dinner menu that seems to encompass every corner of India's vast cuisine, this is another can't-miss spot in west Little Rock.

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Star of India in the strip center at the ne corner of markham and shackleford near 430 and financial center pkwy. Was so good both times I've been that some people in the group went two nights in a row. There's a whole hog cafe location over there too.

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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (295 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: Indian- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 301 N Shackleford Rd Ste C4, Little Rock, AR 72211-2887- Read more on Tripadvisor

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Family packs: Order your choice of chana masala, saag paneer, chicken tikka masala, korma, lamb kofta, chicken garlic, chicken vindaloo, tufo kadhai, served samosa, rice, tamarind chutney and mint chutney. Some include mango ice cream.

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Star of India is to die for, and another one of my partner and I’s favorite places to go. This has become a staple for date nights with our friends. When you walk in, you’re loudly and happily greeted with a “Welcome home!!!

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And for the young one who has a refined palate, take him or her to Star of India. Owner Sami Lal loves kids and loves introducing them to the flavors of the East. The lunchtime buffet is one of the city’s best dining deals.

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I'm only familiar with Star of India, but they have recently gone back to buffet service which we both don't like. So, what is the best Indian in the metro that has full table service and is open for lunch?

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If you love Indian food, you will really love Star of India Restaurant. Patrons rave that it is the best Indian food that they have ever had. They even offer a lunch buffet that is less than $10.

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While the food is good, what makes Star of India truly stand out is one of the more personable owners in the business, Sami Lal. The Chicken Tikki and Saag Paneer are pretty darn great as well.

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also in WLR: Casa Manana and Saigon Cuisine are on Cantrell between Mississippi and University, and Layla's is on Rodney Parham, near Green Tree nursery.

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Located in Westchase Plaza, Star of India is a strip-mall storefront eatery offering a variety of Indian favorites from a lunch buffet or dinner menu.

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