Inspired Indian Cooking features Indian-inspired sandwiches, chai, and desserts, all made fresh with house spice blends and traditional techniques.

Delicious Indian Flavors, Crafted with Care

Inspired Indian Cooking is a vegetarian Indian restaurant located just steps from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Founded by Chef Kalpana Waikar, we bring freshly-made sandwiches, fillings, sauces, and spice blends to your table, whether you’re grabbing lunch nearby or cooking at home.

menu spice kits

Our Indian street food–inspired sandwiches feature:
- House-made vegan chutneys and aiolis
- Freshly roasted Indian spice blends
- Custom-blended Muenster and white cheddar cheese, shredded in-house daily
- Indian-spiced pickled red onions
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Our Chana Melt Sandwich

H/eat at Home

Every week, we cook small batches of Indian dishes including curries, dals, sides, and desserts, refrigerated and ready to pick up or be delivered on Wednesdays.

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Local Recognition & Reviews

Named to Eater Chicago's Best Evanston Restaurants list in 2025, Inspired Indian Cooking is loved by locals and visitors alike.

Cook at home with Inspired Indian spice kits!
Spice Kits & Recipes
Bring Indian Flavors Home
Love cooking? Our Inspired Indian spice kits let you create classic Indian dishes in your kitchen. Perfect for home cooks, gifts, or meal prep.
- nationwide shipping
- pre-measured whole and ground spices
- easy 5-step recipe and shopping list
- adaptable to vegan and vegetarian diets
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