The space that currently houses Barsa New Indian was another Indian restaurant before (Indian Monsoon), but what makes Barsa different is that they’ve designed the menu with a modern, upscale dining experience in mind. You won’t find pages and pages of options but, rather, a concise and focused list of dishes so that everything can be made fresh and prepared with precision. Barsa grinds up their own spice mixes in house, creating a freshness you can taste on the rubs and in the sauces (Indian spices are even used in the cocktails). While you’ll find both modern and unique signature dishes like lobster moilee alongside classics like tikka masala, even the classics will taste like something entirely new due to the cooking techniques and spices. The kitchen is led by chef Vinod Kumar who previously worked at the Michelin-starred Semma in New York. As word spreads, so does its popularity, so reservations are a good idea.
We picked Barsa to celebrate our 23 anniversary and we were not disappointed. The food and the service were above and beyond. The decor just perfect. The food was incredibly flavorful and the drinks were absolutely unique and delicious. It was just the best anniversary dinner.
Most Rahaman
Jul 27, 2025
5
I had dinner at Barsa New Indian tonight and really enjoyed the experience. I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala and Creamy Chicken Tandoori, and both dishes were full of rich flavor and beautifully cooked. The Chicken Tikka Masala had a great balance of spices with a smooth, hearty sauce, while the Creamy Chicken Tandoori was tender and well-marinated with just the right amount of smokiness and creaminess.
Service was smooth and the ambiance felt upscale but comfortable. Overall, a solid dinner with standout flavors—I’d definitely return to try more from the menu.
Aaron Ghering
Jul 25, 2025
5
Just had dinner at Barsa New Indian in Durham this evening. The meal was not just among the best Indian food I’ve ever eaten but one of the best meals I have ever had. They have been open for 45 days under new management so nearly all of substandard reviews here are from the previous ownership, and the new owners are responding to them all! They brought in a chef from Michelin star restaurants and revamped their entire operation, to include grinding and blending their own fresh herbs and spices. All of this shows because this place is amazing.
We ordered GARAM PUMPKIN ALMOND SOUP, IMLI PRAWNS, LOBSTER MOILEE, CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA, GARLIC NAAN & GHEE RICE. The garam pumpkin almond soup was out of this world, a perfect start to the meal. The Imli prawns were big, juicy and the flavor was extremely well balanced. The entrees were equally impressive. I know Chicken Tikka Masala seems cliche but this was far from it. There was a wonderful char on the chicken and everything was cooked and seasoned perfectly. The Lobster Moilee was delicious and cooked perfectly as well. We will definitely be coming back. The food was amazing, the staff welcoming, friendly, and accommodating, and the ambiance is quant and inviting. Thank you Barsa for giving us such a wonderful dining experience.
Anjali Bhatt
Jun 21, 2025
5
I had an incredible dining experience at Barsa. As soon as we entered, we were warmly greeted by the manager and servers. The ambiance of the restaurant is both cozy and elegant, making it a perfect place for any occasion. The food was fantastic - highly recommend the Shahi Kofta, Paneer Butter Masala, Moong Dal Makhni, and garlic naan. We were informed by the staff and Chef Vinod (experience working in Michelin star restaurants!) that the food is entirely made from scratch, including the spices that are freshly ground every morning. The meal was made even better by the attentive and kind servers (Murali), manager (Sunny), Chef Vinod, and pastry chef (Chef Gautam), who made us feel welcomed and cared for. 10/10 recommend this restaurant, will definitely be coming back soon!
Dalton Kennedy
Jun 13, 2025
5
The best Indian food I’ve had. The flavors are just a step above any Indian I’ve eaten in the past. We had the fish wrapped in banana leaf, Chicken Tikki Masala, Baarish Ka Lamb, Malai Sag Paneer, and way too much naan bread. They also did a really cool dessert surprise for a birthday we were celebrating. Murali was a wonderful server, and even helped keep an energetic toddler satisfied.
Will be coming back again!
Diana Monroe
Jun 1, 2025
5
We had an extraordinary meal at this new restaurant, Barsa, on Morgan Street in Durham. The dinner was delicious with surprising presentations and unique flavors. We were pleased with the efficient and attentive service even as most of the tables filled up with other guests. We plan to take more friends with us when we return soon. Highly recommend this vibrant restaurant1
Tanya Shriyan
May 31, 2025
5
The food here was incredible! Everything had amazing flavor and the perfect amount of spice. Definitely a restaurant that I will be coming back to often. The drinks were equally as good as the food and our server, murali, was incredibly helpful and kind. He went above and beyond to accolade out dietary restrictions and made sure everything was to our liking 😊
Hind Rasselkaf
May 29, 2025
5
I love this place! The location in downtown Durham is fantastic..you can enjoy great food while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The food is excellent, and the cocktail juices, especially the ones Lavina prepared for us, were outstanding. The service is also is great! everyone is so welcoming, and Lavina truly went above and beyond to make our experience memorable.
Adheer Allamsetty
May 24, 2025
5
Barsa was such a great experience. I had the Lobster Moilee and it was incredible. The curry was rich and flavorful, and the lobster was cooked perfectly.
The atmosphere is super cool with a modern vibe that feels really welcoming. They also have unique drinks, definitely not your usual cocktail list, which I loved.
If you’re into Indian food and enjoy an upscale dining experience, this place is definitely worth checking out. Everything from the food to the drinks to the ambiance felt thoughtful and different in the best way.
Sneha Saravanan
Mar 26, 2025
5
Wonderful Indian restaurant located in downtown Durham! From the delicious food to the outstanding service, it was an amazing experience. The ambience is modern and elegant. The dishes were all very fresh and flavorful and were presented beautifully. The lobster was so tasty and the chicken was cooked perfectly - crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. Chicken tikka is a must try! We also enjoyed some lovely drinks that incorporated Indian flavors. Highly recommend!
