I have a girlfriend coming into town this weekend and she is dying for Indian food. Can you recommend an authentic Indian restaurant in the city that has nice ambiance/decor but not too chi-chi? Oh yes, and we're both on a budget.
Lucky for you, great, cheap Indian food is easy to find in this city. If you want truly authentic Indian, and you're on a budget, go out to Queens and visit the Jackson Diner. Though it's far from chi-chi, it has a full bar and ambiance that's so New York it hurts (in a good way). And don't be intimidated that it's in Queens, it's really just a short subway ride away. Closest trains are the E, F and R, with the 7, G and V just a few blocks further. Visit HopStop to find the path that works best for you.
Jackson Diner
37-47 74th St., near 37th Road, Jackson Heights, Queens | 718-672-1232