Indian Food Blogs · 8 min read

Top 10 Indian Dishes to Try in Almere – From Butter Chicken to Samosa

From creamy butter chicken and fragrant biryani to crispy samosas and smoky tandoori, these are the Indian dishes locals keep ordering at Holi Almere, the Indian restaurant on the harbour in Almere Haven.

By Holi Almere Kitchen Team Published Updated
Top Indian dishes to try in Almere: curries, rice, naan and samosas Holi Almere · Almere Haven
  • 4.6★Google rating
  • 100%Halal kitchen
  • On the harbourHavenzicht, Almere Haven
  • 3 waysDine-in, pickup & delivery
In this article

    Almere has quietly become one of the most exciting places in the Netherlands for authentic Indian food. Whether you are craving something rich and creamy after a long day or planning a bold, spicy dinner with the family, the local Indian food scene, from the silky texture of butter chicken to the satisfying crunch of a freshly made samosa, is winning over residents and visitors alike.

    Not sure what to order? We have rounded up the 10 Indian dishes in Almere that locals keep coming back for. They are made with recipes and techniques that have barely changed in generations, prepared the way a grandmother would make them, and at Holi Almere we don't cut corners.

    Why Has Almere Become a Hotspot for Indian Food Lovers?

    Almere's food scene has changed quickly, and Indian food sits right at the heart of that shift. A diverse population and a growing curiosity for global flavours have created real demand for restaurants that cook North and South Indian food properly, not watered-down versions of it.

    What separates the best Indian restaurants from the rest comes down to the basics: a genuine clay tandoor, slow-cooked curry bases and hand-ground spice blends instead of packet mixes. In a single meal you can travel from smoky tandoori grills to comforting dal, a full vegetarian thali and a sweet finish. Add dine-in, takeaway and home delivery to the mix, and it is easy to see why Indian food has become a weekly habit for so many people in Almere.

    Butter chicken Almere, creamy tomato curry with tandoor-grilled chicken
    Butter chicken: tandoor-charred chicken in a rich tomato and butter curry.

    Butter Chicken Almere: The Creamy Classic You Can't Miss

    A must-try Indian classicIt is almost impossible to talk about Indian food without mentioning butter chicken, and it is the signature dish behind our reputation in Almere. First-timers order it automatically, and regulars rarely move on.
    Rich, smoky & creamyThe chicken is marinated overnight, charred in the tandoor and then simmered in a rich tomato curry, so the sweetness, spice and butter blend together instead of competing.
    Perfect for every tasteApproachable enough for newcomers to Indian food, with enough depth for those who like to add an extra kick of chilli.
    The perfect pairingServe it with warm butter naan or fluffy basmati rice, for a night out or a cosy meal at home.
    A local favouriteIf you only order one curry, make it this one. Butter chicken Almere regularly features on local "best of" lists, and for good reason.
    Craving butter chicken tonight?Order for pickup or delivery, or reserve a table.

    Where Can You Find the Best Chicken Tikka Masala in Almere?

    Think of chicken tikka masala as butter chicken's bolder, sharper cousin. Tender chicken breast is marinated in fragrant spices, grilled in the clay oven for that smoky char, and then folded into a rich, well-spiced and perfectly balanced curry sauce.

    It is the contrast between the tandoor char and the creamy tomato sauce that gives chicken tikka masala in Almere such broad appeal, whether or not you grew up with Indian food. Pair it with garlic naan, butter naan or jeera rice.

    Butter chicken compared with chicken tikka masala
    Butter ChickenChicken Tikka Masala
    FlavourSweeter and creamierSpicier and bolder
    SauceTomato-based with plenty of butterHerb-led, with capsicum and more spice
    ChickenTandoor-grilledTandoor-grilled
    Best withButter naan or basmati riceGarlic naan, butter naan or jeera rice
    Samosa Almere, crispy golden pastries with spiced potato filling
    Samosas: crackly pastry, warmly spiced filling.

    Samosa Almere: Crispy, Spiced, and Perfect for Sharing

    A samosa is usually where an Indian meal begins. The classic version is a crispy, golden pastry filled with spiced potato and vegetables, while versions with minced chicken and fresh herbs are just as popular.

    Crispy & flakyA crackly shell around a soft, warmly spiced filling. That contrast is the whole point.
    Perfect for sharingOrder a plate for the table with friends, or grab one on the go.
    Chutney pairingServed with tangy tamarind and cooling mint chutney.
    Samosa chaatA crushed samosa topped with chickpea curry, chutneys and yoghurt, which turns it into a dish of its own.

    Where to Find the Best Biryani in Town?

    Biryani is not just a meal, it is an occasion. Fragrant basmati rice is layered with meat or vegetables and slow-cooked with whole spices into a deeply satisfying one-pot dish. Choose from chicken, chicken tikka, lamb, mutton or a fully vegetarian version, usually served with cooling raita.

    You can judge a good biryani by rice that stays light and separate, meat that is properly cooked, and spices that are present without overpowering. Biryani needs slow layering and steaming rather than a quick stir-fry, so only kitchens willing to invest the time get it right. If you want to leave the table full and happy, this is your dish.

    "The Biryani was fragrant and cooked to perfection… every single bite was bursting with rich, traditional spices."Mahak Rathore, Google review of Holi Almere
    Tandoori chicken roasted in the clay oven at Holi Almere
    From the clay tandoor: smoky, slightly charred and full of flavour.

    Tandoori Delights Worth Ordering on Your Next Visit

    The heart of Indian cookingThe centuries-old clay tandoor is at the heart of the Holi Almere kitchen, giving every dish that smoky, slightly charred flavour you simply can't fake.
    Tandoori ChickenBone-in chicken, marinated and roasted over charcoal until it is smoky to the bone.
    Murg Malai TikkaBoneless chicken in a creamy, mild marinade with very little heat.
    Garlic Chicken TikkaLoaded with garlic for those who want more of a kick.
    Haryali TikkaChicken marinated in fresh green herbs for a vibrant, herby taste.
    Boti & Lamb Seekh KebabLamb with ginger, garlic and green chillies, and a beautiful char.
    Tandoori PrawnsA lighter, seafood choice with classic tandoori flavour, ideal for pescatarians.

    Not sure what to order?

    Tell us what you're in the mood for and we'll pick your dish.

    What Vegetarian Indian Dishes Should You Try in Almere?

    Vegetarians are spoilt for choice when it comes to Indian dishes in Almere. Paneer tikka Almere is the natural place to start: paneer, Indian cottage cheese, is marinated in spices and grilled in the clay oven, picking up the same smoky, charred flavour as the meat tandoori dishes. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike love its firm texture and well-spiced marinade.

    From there, explore paneer tikka masala, palak paneer, shahi paneer, malai kofta and dal makhni. Lighter options include vegetable curry, aloo gobhi and Amritsari chole, done chana masala-style. Indian food more than holds its own for plant-based diners. Browse the full Holi Almere menu to see every vegetarian option.

    Paneer TikkaPaneer Tikka MasalaPalak PaneerShahi PaneerMalai KoftaDal MakhniVegetable CurryAloo GobhiAmritsari Chole
    Popular Indian desserts near you: gulab jamun, kulfi and ras malai
    Save room for dessert.

    Sweet Endings: Popular Indian Desserts Near You

    Always save room for dessert. Gulab jamun, soft deep-fried milk dumplings soaked in warm sugar syrup, is a firm favourite and is often served with kulfi, a dense and creamy Indian ice cream. For something lighter, try ras malai: soft paneer discs in sweetened, cardamom-scented milk.

    Feeling indulgent? Go for gajar halwa, a traditional carrot-based sweet, or kheer badami, an almond-studded rice pudding. They are the perfect way to end a meal of rich curries, tandoori dishes and biryani.

    Experience Authentic Indian Dishes at Holi Almere

    At Holi Almere we serve real Indian flavour with no shortcuts. From butter chicken Almere and chicken tikka masala in Almere to samosa Almere, biryani Almere and paneer tikka Almere, you will find traditional curries, tandoori specialities, a full vegetarian spread and desserts made the traditional way. Our spices are chosen with care and our techniques are never rushed.

    Whether you are planning a family dinner, a relaxed night out with friends or your very first taste of Indian food, visit Holi Almere, find what you love and enjoy every flavour.

    Your table by the water is waitingHavenzicht 12, Almere Haven · open daily 16:00 – 23:00

    Conclusion

    From the creamy comfort of butter chicken Almere and the smoky depth of chicken tikka masala in Almere to the crunch of samosa Almere and the layered aromas of biryani Almere, Almere has built an impressive range of authentic Indian flavours. And vegetarians are never left out: paneer tikka Almere and its curry variations bring the same spice and richness to the table.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the most popular dish among Indian dishes in Almere?

    Butter chicken is the most ordered Indian dish in Almere. Its smooth, slightly spicy tomato sauce appeals to first-timers and regulars alike. Chicken tikka masala and biryani also have loyal fans.

    What is the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala in Almere?

    Butter chicken is sweeter and creamier, with a tomato-based sauce and plenty of butter. Chicken tikka masala is spicier, with a herb-led sauce that includes capsicum and more spice. Both use tandoor-grilled chicken; the sauce decides which dish you get.

    Is samosa Almere available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions?

    Yes. The classic samosa is filled with spiced potatoes and vegetables and is fully vegetarian. The chicken version is filled with minced chicken and herbs. Both are deep-fried until golden and crisp.

    What type of rice is used for biryani Almere?

    Biryani is made with long-grain basmati rice, layered with marinated meat or vegetables and cooked low and slow with whole spices. The rice stays separate, never sticky or mushy.

    Is paneer tikka Almere a good option for vegetarians who want a smoky, grilled flavour?

    Yes. Paneer tikka is marinated cottage cheese grilled in the tandoor, so it picks up the same char and smoke as the meat dishes. It is one of the best vegetarian options on the menu.

    How spicy are Indian dishes in Almere?

    Butter chicken and chicken korma are mild and creamy. Chicken tikka masala and biryani sit in the middle. Chicken vindaloo and chicken madras are hot. Most restaurants will adjust the spice level on request.

    Can I order biryani Almere or butter chicken Almere for takeaway and delivery?

    Yes. Most Indian restaurants around Almere, including those known for butter chicken, chicken tikka masala and biryani, offer takeaway or delivery as well as dine-in. At Holi Almere you can order online for pickup or delivery.

    What should I pair with samosa Almere or paneer tikka Almere as a starter?

    Both pair well with mint and tamarind chutney. For a bit of everything, the mixed vegetarian platter combines samosa, pakora and kebabs.

    Spice level guide

    🌶️Mild & creamy: butter chicken, chicken korma
    🌶️🌶️Medium: chicken tikka masala, biryani
    🌶️🌶️🌶️Hot: chicken vindaloo, chicken madras
    Written by Holi Almere Kitchen Team

    The chefs and team behind Holi Almere, the Indian restaurant at Havenzicht 12 in Almere Haven. Our chefs bring more than 20 years of experience in traditional North and South Indian cooking. Learn more about us →

    Our guests, our ambassadors

    Diners who tried these dishes

    I had the Amritsari Chole, Biryani and Soya Chaap, and every single bite was bursting with rich, traditional spices.
    M
    Mahak RathoreGoogle review
    Very good Indian food, lots of variety in snacks, starters, main course, drinks and desserts. Definitely recommend.
    S
    Swati JainGoogle review
    The food was excellent, with rich flavours and authentic spices. The staff was attentive and courteous.
    S
    sojournersagasGoogle review
    Every dish was full of flavour and cooked to perfection. We can't wait to visit again.
    G
    Gurmail SinghGoogle review

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