Indian food is among the world's most complex and diverse cuisines. North India's curries, biryanis, and tandoor-cooked breads are what most of the world knows. But South Indian cuisine — dosas, idlis, sambhar, coconut-based curries — is a revelation. Kolkata's street food, Gujarati thalis, and Goan seafood each tell different stories.
Vegetarian food is incredibly developed in India — even committed carnivores find extraordinary meals without meat. Street food is excellent but choose busy stalls with high turnover. Chai (spiced milk tea) served in small clay cups is India's great ritual. Always drink bottled or filtered water.