The best food, particularly for the money, in any coastal American city is likely to be non-Chinese Asian food.
This is a great point. However, Chinese food in America tastes very different from Chinese food in England (and, I suppose, in other European countries). I believe it's because Chinese chefs try to modify their foods for the local tastes.
In NY, LA and San Francisco, you can get authentic, regional Chinese cuisine. Go for it! But you have to know what to look for. Elsewhere, "Chinese" food in the US is really American-Chinese food.
Thai food is also usually Americanized. It can be great, but it's less "authentic" than some other Asian cuisines here. If you can find good Laotian or Vietnamese options, those can be amazing meals for every little money.
Lastly, I can't imagine a Brit eating Indian food in the U.S. -- mostly a waste of time since you have fantastic options where you're from.
(There are of course exceptions to every rule I have posted.)