Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant, nestled in the heart of San Clemente, California, has quickly become a culinary sensation among locals and visitors alike. Reviewers across the board rave about the authenticity and flavor of the dishes, indicating a strong commitment to quality. One customer, Taylor Miller, was particularly impressed by the lunch buffet, complimenting both the excellent pricing and the hospitable service.
Many diners, like Jolene Holmstrand, were captivated by the vibrant colors and tenderness of the food, hints of freshness that resonate throughout the menu. Specialty dishes such as lamb karahi and chicken tikka masala have won hearts, showcasing a unique blend of Indian, Pakistani, and Kashmiri cuisines. Reviewers also praised the restaurant's flexibility in catering to dietary needs, such as accommodating dairy-free preferences with coconut milk.
The ambiance at Hot N Chili contributes to a delightful dining experience. Set in a charming old-school plaza, patrons are greeted with warm hospitality, ensuring that every visit feels special. Whether you're indulging in spicy goat and lamb dishes or savoring the perfectly cooked biryani, it's clear that this restaurant aims to please. Don't miss the chance to discover this gem, where every bite is a celebration of Indian cuisine.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Has all you can eat
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves halal food
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Photos
Reviews For Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant
Taylor Miller
Jun 12,2025
Food was INCREDIBLE. Came for lunch buffet and it was an amazing price as well. It was a little hot inside so I sat outside, but the staff was very friendly as well
jolene holmstrand
Jun 12,2025
Everything was so authentic, tender, and delicious! All the food had bright, vibrant colors, which tells me it’s fresh! What a sweet tasty Indian spot. We will be back many times.
Aaron Li
Jun 3,2025
I normally do not write reviews, but this place is so good I feel compelled to write one. I had the lamb karahi with medium spice level and garlic naan. The dish is aromatic and has great flavor, the lamb is tender. My friend ordered chicken tikka masala, but because he is dairy free, he asked for cocunut milk instead of yogurt and the restaurant delivered, no problem. Service is really good too, and the restaurant is located in a nice old-school looking plaza with lots of other restaurants nearby as well. Everything was amazing here, 100% will be coming back if I am in San Clemente again.
Dr. Abdullah AlHomeadan
Jun 2,2025
Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant is a great mix of Indian, Pakistani, and Kashmiri cousins. We tried the goat and lamb dishes and they were really good. You can decide the level of spiciness from zero to unlimited. The biriyani is good, especially with basmati rice. The owner/chef, Mr. Zafar is one of three chefs " as he told me" is very focused on customer needs. Muss. Sidra was our host and she is extremely curtious and exemplified a true care and service. San Clemente is gorgeous. When there, try to enjoy the San Clemente peir area and the Outlets.
Bryan Lambert
May 7,2025
The good.... The food is good. No not just good, great.... No, great is too mild a word.... The food is superlative.... If you’re in the mood for good Indian food, you need to go to Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant. Tucked into the “old town” shopping center, this gem of a restaurant is sure not to disappoint. The bad... Nope.... It was all good The ugly... Again, nope. If you’re in San Clemente, be sure to stop by for some GOOD Indian food at Hot N Chili!
Heather Morrison-Mikolajczak
Apr 30,2025
Tried this place recently and absolutely adore it! The food you get for the price is mind blowing. I got the chicken biryani (19 I believe) and it was enough food to feed me and all of my children with some left over. There had to be the equivalent of half a chicken or more in this dish. The naan was really good as well.
Katada Siraj
Apr 15,2025
Food is delicious and comes in generous quantities. Had the chicken Karahi, could feed 3-4 people on its own, tastes amazing and even better with the Naan, highly recommend. Also had samosas for appetizer, pretty good too.
Marie Pearce
Apr 6,2025
Love this place! Some of the best Indian food I’ve eaten. We had the Chiken Korma, Chicken Tika and Karahi vegetable dish. Side of Naan. Rice is included. Papa-dons and sauces were complimentary. The chicken tika was a bit different as it had cabbage and onions with lemon wedges. Delicious! This dish may bump my favorite Chicken Korma to second place...maybe. The korma was a very nice blend of coconut and other spices non overwhelmed the other. Prices are reasonable. Our second visit and we will be back.
Reviews For Hot N Chili Indian Restaurant