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House of IndiaCWorth Trying

509 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2V1, Canada · Restaurant, Asian restaurant, Bar · 4.7/5 Google (680 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Flavor-forward Indian comfort food with budget-friendly lunch combos but inconsistent service, some cleanliness complaints, and occasional pricing/portion surprises.

Why it gets a C for overall quality

House of India delivers solid food quality with standout curries and naan that earn consistent praise, supported by budget-friendly lunch combos that represent genuine value. However, safety concerns including odor reports, inconsistent execution with oversalting and portion variation, and unreliable service during busy periods prevent a higher grade. The casual Chinatown location appeals to regulars and families seeking accessible Indian comfort food, but quality gaps and operational inconsistencies keep it from competing with the area's more polished dining destinations.

Restaurant Summary

On the edge of Chinatown, House of India feels casual and lively, with TV sports, bright lights, and a steady takeout pulse. Staff are often described as friendly and helpful, though attentiveness can slip during busy times. One diner put it simply: "The curries were rich and the naan was soft," capturing the core appeal. The cooking leans traditional North Indian with a few Indo‑Chinese and continental detours, more comforting than showy. Butter chicken, biryani, and chana dishes earn the most love, and the lunch combos are praised as real bargains. Expect reliable spice guidance and hearty plates, but know that a few guests reported small meat-to-rice ratios or uneven seasoning. For families, the menu is very accessible: butter chicken with naan, samosas, rice, and even mac and cheese or poutine mean most kids will find something familiar. No formal kids menu is listed, but portion sizes on combos suit sharing and lighter appetites.

At a Glance

What Sets It Apart

What People Love

Points of Concern

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average CostC$28-42 per person ReservationsRecommended

Perfect For

Location Insights

Area: Urban edge of Chinatown/DTES, mix of heritage storefronts, nightlife, and visible social challenges; attracts budget diners and locals.

Safety: Generally busy corridors but mixed conditions; some reviews note odors and discomfort; exercise normal urban awareness.

Nearby: Near Chinatown shops, bars, and venues; pre-concert and late-hour dining noted; heavy takeaway traffic.

GastownGastown is a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets, a vibrant nightlife, and a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It attracts a mix of locals and visitors seeking a blend of heritage and modern urban culture.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday11:00–22:00 Wednesday11:00–22:00 Thursday11:00–02:00 Friday11:00–22:00 Saturday11:00–23:00 Sunday11:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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