Indian Restaurant & Spice Shop in Evanston, IL

Inspired Indian Cooking is a vegetarian Indian sandwich shop IL known for bold, flavorful lunches in Evanston, IL and Indian spice kits shipped across the U.S.

Delicious Indian Flavors, Crafted with Care

Inspired Indian Cooking is a vegetarian, Indian-woman-owned 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.

  • 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

    view menu 
  • Our Chana Melt Sandwich

Local Recognition & Reviews

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

  • Inspired Indian 12-Kit Sampler

    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
    view spice kits 
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  • Hours

    Monday to Saturday
    11am - 2pm

  • Location

    914 Noyes Street

    Evanston, IL 60201

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  • Contact

    hello@inspiredindiancooking.com

    312.535.3695