Name: 1St Indian Kitchen
Price range: $$

1St Indian Kitchen Information

Walking into 1St Indian Kitchen at 8917 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby Township, PA, you immediately get a sense of warmth and authenticity that hints at the culinary experience ahead. The restaurant balances a casual, inviting atmosphere with a clean, well-organized dining space, making it comfortable whether you're popping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner. The menu is impressively diverse, featuring classic Indian dishes alongside more inventive specials that reflect the rich tapestry of flavors across the subcontinent. Appetizers like crispy samosas and flavorful pakoras are perfect for sharing, while mains such as butter chicken, saag paneer, and biryani showcase a thoughtful balance of spices that hits all the right notes without overwhelming the palate. Guests often mention the generous portion sizes and the consistent quality, noting that each dish arrives piping hot and beautifully presented, which adds to the overall dining experience. The staff at 1St Indian Kitchen contribute significantly to the welcoming vibe; servers are attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and happy to offer recommendations or adjust spice levels to suit your taste, which makes newcomers feel instantly at ease. Many reviews highlight the efficient service even during peak hours, and while the restaurant can get busy, it rarely feels chaotic, maintaining a steady rhythm that keeps both dine-in and takeout guests satisfied. The restaurant also caters well to families and groups, with dishes that accommodate a range of dietary preferences, including vegetarian options that are far from an afterthought. Location-wise, the Upper Darby setting is convenient with ample parking, making it an easy stop for both locals and visitors exploring the area. Regulars appreciate that 1St Indian Kitchen manages to deliver a homestyle feel without compromising on the sophistication of the flavors, blending traditional Indian cooking with just enough contemporary flair to keep the menu exciting. Whether you're craving a rich, creamy curry, a fragrant biryani, or simply a reliable spot for consistently good Indian food, this kitchen seems to hit the sweet spot of authenticity, flavor, and friendly service.

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

I’m so excited to have found really good Indian food. We tried 3 different dishes and they were all wonderful. I found the portions you get for the price are a great deal as well. This is definitely going to be our new take out place. If you order delivery though, order well ahead of time. Our delivery took 1.5 hours so take out or dine in may be best. It was worth the wait though.

This unassuming gem is, hands down, one of the finest Indian restaurants in the region—and undoubtedly Philly's best-kept secret. Tucked away as a modest hole-in-the-wall with zero flashy marketing, it flies blissfully under the radar. We reside in the Philly suburbs, surrounded by a plethora of Indian eateries within a mere 5- to 10-mile radius, and yet, we still make the trek to 1st Indian Kitchen because of how exceptionally good their food is. Key highlights include: An abundance of delectable vegetarian choices (our perennial favorites: Paneer Makhani, Aloo Gobi, Vegetable Jalfrezi, Chana Masala, Chana Saag, and Malai Kofta). Customizable spice levels tailored precisely to your palate and tolerance—our children invariably request the mild option. Hearty portions, augmented by complimentary rice with every entrée, which elevates the already compelling value. The owner, a genuinely warm and engaging host, she makes a point of chatting with patrons to ensure their satisfaction. Impeccable kitchen hygiene, a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality.

This is our new favorite Indian takeout spot! Their food is ON POINT. Amazing saag paneer. Really quick for pickup.

Great food, I drove 3.5 hrs and went straight to eat Biriany! Very fulfilling generous quantity. They serve halal desi food, and spice level is perfect with medium. Plenty of seating and parking space in front of the store. I like their simple service. Everything I need was available, I wish they were close to our home. Strongly recommended their goat biriany

This place is definitely for to go orders, but I was pleasantly surprised at how good the food tasted when I got home. I went with the chicken Tikka Masala to be safe, just in case. And it was worth it. If I lived closer I would frequent this restaurant.

1st Indian Kitchen is, hands down, the best Indian food I’ve had in Philly - maybe all of the US. Highlights are garlic naan, paneer makhani, lamb curry, and mango lassi. I couldn’t recommend this great delivery/take-out spot enough. Even ignoring its incredible value (think a curry/main that serves 2 and comes with rice for $14-18), the flavor is incredible. If you haven’t already, go here now!

Every time I've gotten food here it's been exceptionally tasty. Everything. Vegetable Samosa. Samosa Chaat. Chicken Jalfrezi. Chicken Tikka Masala. Garlic Naan. Onion Kulcha. Mango Lassi. Baigen Bharta. Dal Tadka. Lamb Curry. I haven't tried their whole menu yet, but I'm working my way through. The menu is so easy to navigate and order from, and the service has been so impressive. One of my favorite restaurants, for the very fair prices, the delicious food, and the graceful people that run this gem.

Great food and great service. If you pay cash they give you 15% off. I haven't had a bad experience here.

1St Indian Kitchen