Rita's Gate Of India
Indian • $$
1450 5th St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(424) 268-7196
Location
1450 5th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Hours
Photos
Reviews
Best Indian on the westside. We love all The vegan options and my son loves the chicken options. The lamb is good too. They can adjust spice. Family run place.
Wonderful family-owned restaurant. If you're trying to venture outside the usual butter chicken, I'd strongly recommend the Beef Nihari and Roganjosh. Food has some Bengali influences (don't let the thick layer of oil scare you!), and a really good balance of spices and heat. Very happy with the warm, homely service. The food tasted like it was made with care 💕
BEST INDIAN FOOD ON THE WEST SIDE! Authentic, charming, and cozy. I stopped in while running errands and was greeted by Rita herself. She is the chef at Rita’s Gate of India and takes exceptional pride in her food. This time around I had the chicken tikka masala. Cooked to perfection. Creamy and delicious with the garlic naan. I love their portion sizes— enough to split with another person or to take home leftovers for lunch the next day! The samosa was also really yummy and paired with two savory, flavorful sauces. Super super good! Rita also added some saffron to the rice which added a special touch. I’ve also had their Korma Curry with chicken and it’s very flavorful. Every time I’ve gone to Rita’s it hits the spot! It’s so important to support local businesses like Rita’s. Family run businesses like these add so much love to their food, I’m convinced that’s her secret ingredient. 💜
BEST Indian food in LA by far! From being greeted at the door to the amazing food and service this place was 5 stars all the way. I’m half Indian myself and think my mum makes the best Indian food ever, but this place gives her a run for her money! Talking about prices, it was super reasonable coming in at under $50 for a couple of mains and an appetizer. Star of the menu was the tandoori chicken and the garlic naan. I’ve never had better garlic naan in my life, it was soft and fluffy but also crunchy and not too chewy - I was seriously amazed and had to force myself to stop eating (but ordered some more to take home 😅). Anyway, love this place, love Rita the owner and cannot wait to come back!!
I had an absolutely amazing experience at this restaurant in Santa Monica! From the moment I walked in, the staff welcomed me with such warmth and hospitality that made me feel right at home. The food was simply incredible – every dish was flavorful, authentic, and prepared to perfection. This is, without a doubt, the best Indian restaurant I’ve tried in Los Angeles. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a delicious and memorable dining experience. I’ll definitely be coming back!
Great food! Rita's is a legendary family owned Indian Restaurant close by everything in downtown Santa Monica. The owner served me amazing chicken curry with rice and garlic naan. 35 years and going strong in the same location has made Rita's the best kept secret in Santa Monica!
We had an absolutely wonderful experience at Rita’s restaurant. Our flight was delayed from LAX it was an easy Uber ride to her Resturant . We were greeted by the owner she is absolutely lovely and stunning person has been in business more than 32 years. The food was delicious - we ordered a whole lot of stuff everything was amazing but our favorite was the lamb and the shrimp. The food is very authentic and each plate individually made for the customer.. Close to Santa Monica beach for a little walk after a wonderful meal thank you again for the pleasant experience we had.
Related Articles
How to Order at an Indian Restaurant: A Beginner's Guide
Navigate Indian restaurant menus with confidence. Learn what to expect, how to order, and how to enjoy an authentic Indian dining experience.
Decoding the Indian Restaurant Menu: Terms and Dishes Explained
Confused by unfamiliar terms on Indian menus? This comprehensive guide explains common dishes, cooking methods, and ingredients you'll encounter.