Top 10 Must-Try Indian Dishes in Colorado (From Indian Bites Lyons)

Authentic. Healthy. Slow-cooked. Gluten-free friendly.

If you’re traveling through Colorado — especially the scenic drive between Estes Park and Boulder — there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss: bold, comforting, flavor-packed Indian food. And right here in the small mountain town of Lyons, Colorado, Indian Bites has quietly become a favorite stop for locals, hikers, travelers, and curry lovers.

From rich curries to fresh tandoori dishes, here are the Top 10 must-try Indian dishes in Colorado, all crafted with clean ingredients, small-batch spices, and the slow-cooked tradition of the Indian subcontinent.

1. Butter Chicken (Our #1 Most Requested Dish)

Creamy butter chicken curry garnished with fresh cilantro — Tender chicken simmered in a rich, buttery tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices — a beloved Indian comfort food

Creamy, comforting, and soul-warming — but with a twist.
We use fresh chicken thighs, whole spices, and no artificial colors.
Mild heat, big flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Perfect for first-timers and long-time fans.

2. Lamb Masala (Slow-Cooked, No Yogurt)

A house specialty.
Our lamb is simmered for hours until tender, absorbing layers of cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic, and tomato.
No marination. No yogurt. Just pure slow-cooking magic.

3. Saag Paneer (Spinach-Cheese Curry)

Soft paneer cubes cooked with creamy spinach and aromatic spices — Tender paneer cubes simmered in a rich, creamy spinach gravy with traditional Indian spices

One of the healthiest Indian dishes ever created.
Made with slow-cooked spinach and paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese), herbs, and spices, we keep it gluten-free and customizable with paneer, chicken, or lamb.

Pairs beautifully with basmati rice.

4. Tandoori Chicken

Juicy chicken tandoori marinated with spices and grilled to perfection — Tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked in a traditional tandoor for a smoky, flavorful experience

Marinated with yogurt, lemon, turmeric, garlic, and warm spices — then cooked until smoky and juicy.
High-protein, gluten-free, and surprisingly light.

5. Chicken Tikka Masala

Grilled chicken tikka pieces simmered in creamy spiced masala sauce — Tender grilled chicken tikka simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based masala gravy with aromatic spices

A bright, bold, mildly spicy classic.
Tender chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based gravy with a hint of cream and signature Indian spices.
A Colorado curry favorite.

6. Chana Masala (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Wholesome, hearty chickpeas in a onion-tomato based spiced gravy.
This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and flavor — especially loved by vegan guests visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

7. Dal Tadka (Lentil Soup Curry)

Small serving of yellow lentils cooked with spices and tempered with mustard seeds and garlic — A flavorful side order of creamy yellow lentils simmered with aromatic spices and tempered with mustard seeds, garlic, and chili

Comfort food at its finest.
Made with yellow split lentils, garlic, cumin, turmeric, and a finishing “tadka” of sizzling spices.

Light, nutritious, and perfect for cold Colorado days.

8. Chicken Biryani

Aromatic, layered basmati rice and chicken infused with saffron, fried onions, tomatoes, and biryani spices.
Every bite is fragrant and flavorful — a full meal on its own.

9. Aloo Gobi (Vegan Favorite)

Potatoes and cauliflower cooked with turmeric, cumin, and herbs.
Simple ingredients, big flavor.
A classic North Indian dish that’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

10. Vegetable Korma

Mixed vegetables simmered in a creamy, mildly spiced Indian korma sauce — A medley of fresh vegetables cooked in a rich korma gravy with cream, nuts, and aromatic spices

A mild curry loaded with mixed vegetables and a creamy, nutty sauce.
Perfect for guests who want something flavorful but not spicy.

Why Colorado Loves Indian Bites Lyons

Our food is:

? Gluten-free friendly
? Slow-cooked daily
? Healthy and clean
? Authentic but approachable
?? Right on your way to Rocky Mountain National Park

Whether you’re a traveler, a local, or a foodie searching for the best Indian dishes in Colorado, these ten must-try plates belong on your list.