Conveniently located between UT-Austin and Downtown, Clay Pit has been serving up iconic Indian dishes like tikka masala, samosas, butter chicken, and plenty of vegetarian options since 1998. The South Indian-inspired cocktails (mango margarita or Indian Nights gin and tonic, anyone?) and overstuffed couches make it a great hangout spot, too.
Finalists: Asiana Indian Cuisine, Nasha, Saffron, Sangam Chettinad Indian Cuisine, Tarka Indian Kitchen
