Semma, a Michelin-starred South Indian restaurant in Greenwich Village, New York, has been named by The New York Times as the best restaurant of 2025. The restaurant is valued for bold flavors and a fresh take on truly South Indian cooking. It marks a milestone for the establishment.
Highlights
- Semma ranked No. 1 among New York City restaurants in 2025.
- Evaluated from a pool of over 20,000 establishments.
- Known for authentic South Indian cuisine and its Michelin-star status.
Semma Named No. 1 Indian Restaurant in New York for 2025
Semma has topped The New York Times’ prestigious annual list of the 100 Best Restaurants in New York City. The ranking was compiled by restaurant critics Priya Krishna, Melissa Clark, and editor Brian Gallagher after evaluating over 20,000 establishments in the city. Semma previously held the No. 7 position in 2024 and has now risen to No. 1.
Krishna noted in her review, “New York is teeming with Indian restaurants. Yet before Semma, a deeply personal tribute to chef Vijay Kumar’s upbringing in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the city’s diners had never seen Indian food like this.”
Semma’s Culinary Journey and Founding Principles
Semma is part of the Unapologetic Foods group, founded by restaurateurs Roni Mazumdar and Chintan Pandya. The restaurant celebrates authentic South Indian flavors inspired by Chef Vijay Kumar’s upbringing in Tamil Nadu. Kumar focuses on regional dishes featuring key ingredients such as chili peppers, coconut, and curry leaves.
Signature dishes include the Gunpowder Dosa, celebrated for its fermented batter and bold spice blend. Semma’s approach maintains authenticity, eschewing fusion elements while honoring traditional South Indian culinary methods.
Evaluation Criteria: Key Metrics
The New York Times’ rating was based on rigorous evaluation criteria. More than 20,000 restaurants were considered by critics who shortlisted the top 100 contenders using parameters such as flavor authenticity, quality of service, innovation, ambiance, and consistency.
Each restaurant was evaluated on culinary precision and customer experience. Semma met the benchmark with dishes crafted through uncompromised traditional methods and a commitment to authentic regional flavors.
Highlights of the No. 1 Ranking for 2025
From No. 7 in 2024 to No. 1 in 2025 tells the story of Semma climbing up in the ranks of fine dining in New York. Its distinctive South Indian flavors, innovative techniques, and warm ambiance have resonated with both local diners and international food critics. Recognized for its high-quality execution, Semma is reinforcing its status as a leading culinary destination.
Road to Michelin: Global Culinary Impact
The retention of its prestigious Michelin star for the third year in a row makes a strong statement about Semma’s unwavering dedication to quality. The transformational journey of Vijay Kumar’s visionary approach is from traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine to a new-age dining experience on an international platform. By combining authentic ingredients with creative culinary techniques, Semma serves as a global ambassador for South Indian cuisine.
Semma’s recognition as New York’s top restaurant in 2025 testifies to its authentic culinary heritage and innovative spirit. Its journey from Tamil Nadu roots to international acclaim inspires chefs and diners alike. The restaurant continues to set high standards for quality and creativity.
