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Asheville

North America

United States

Chai Pani Asheville, located at 32 Banks Ave in the vibrant South Slope Brewing District, is a celebrated restaurant that brings the flavors of Indian street food to North Carolina. Known for its lively atmosphere and innovative menu, Chai Pani has earned accolades, including the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2022. This popular eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Indian cuisine in Asheville.

Chai Pani's menu is a delightful homage to Indian street cuisine, featuring a variety of chaats, uttapams, and hearty thalis. Here are some highlights:

Matchstick Okra Fries - Crispy and served with a lime wedge.

Butter Chicken Thali - Tender chicken in a rich tomato-cream sauce, served with basmati rice and garlic naan.

Paneer Tikka Roll - Spiced paneer cheese wrapped with fresh vegetables and chutneys.

Chai Pani is conveniently located in Asheville's bustling South Slope Brewing District, making it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists. After enjoying a meal, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Asheville Art Museum and the River Arts District. The vibrant downtown area is also home to numerous breweries, shops, and art galleries, perfect for a day of exploration.

Chai Pani offers a range of amenities to enhance your dining experience, including:

Family-friendly environment with a menu for children.

Serves lunch and dinner, with vegetarian options.

Offers a selection of Indian beverages and cocktails.

Indian chaat (street snacks) plus homestyle platters (thalis) in a funky, laid-back space.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ2MtWHp3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_1z4i1bzWYgRT3GaQweAyPQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ2MtWHp3RRAB

This is a very vibrant restaurant and the ambience is outstanding. Every corner is beautifully decorated. The smell of the cuisine wafts through the building and hits you as soon as you open the door. The line was out the door on a Saturday night and the wait for a party of two was about 45 minutes. You wait again in the to-be-seated line once your table is ready. Then you wait again in the food buffet line! I’d bring wet wipes as everyone serves themselves down the buffet line… who knows where those hands have been. The food was flavorful but was adjusted from traditional Indian spices and flavors to accommodate the American palate. I do wish the entree serving sizes were bigger, considering the cost. The side options were mostly all fried and the naan was not buttered! I expected more for the hype but ate plenty and was satisfied.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmeHFMSmhRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_1z4i1bzWYgRT3GaQweAyPQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmeHFMSmhRRRAB

Chai Pani is a super friendly place that serves up the best authentic Indian food. We went for the lunch buffet and were blown away by the amazing service and delicious food. Everything was fresh and homemade, with a burst of flavor in every bite. If you’re looking for something fresh and tasty, you have to try Chai Pani!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURieDlTSmJnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_1z4i1bzWYgRT3GaQweAyPQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURieDlTSmJnEAE

Wow. Wow. Wow. The one time I had Indian food many years ago I wasn’t a fan, but I decided to give it another try. This meal was AMAZING! Our server was happy to share recommendations from drinks, to starters, mains, and desserts. We got most of what he recommended and it was all so  delicious. The spice level was perfect, I like spice, and I’ve never been so happy to sweat while eating. This completely changed my perspective on Indian food.

The portions were great and the price for the quality and portions is an insane deal in my opinion. If we lived in Asheville we would be regular visitors!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2eUpyazN3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_1z4i1bzWYgRT3GaQweAyPQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2eUpyazN3RRAB

My husband and I had our first experience at Chai Pani this past week and it was delicious and memorable. They're currently serving their Hurricane Hotbar for dinner post Helene -- not sure how long they will continue that, but their buffet is normally served for lunch.The colors, aromas, and most importantly, the tastes will be calling us back again in the future! Check our the historical preserved murals on the walls should you visit Chai Pani in Asheville. The service and friendly atmosphere was welcoming on a chilly December evening.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmOHRHUjh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_1z4i1bzWYgRT3GaQweAyPQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmOHRHUjh3RRAB

Chai Pani, located in Asheville, North Carolina, has garnered significant acclaim for its innovative take on Indian street food, earning the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2022.

**Ambiance and Atmosphere**

Upon entering Chai Pani, guests are greeted by a lively and colorful environment that mirrors the vibrancy of Indian street markets. The decor is eclectic, with bright hues and artistic touches that create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere. Despite its popularity, the restaurant maintains a neighborhood eatery feel, avoiding any sense of pretentiousness.

**Culinary Offerings**

Chai Pani's menu is a tribute to the diverse flavors of Indian street cuisine, offering a range of chaats (snacks), uttapams (savory crepes), and hearty platters. Chef Meherwan Irani's creative approach results in dishes that are both authentic and inventive.

A standout appetizer is the Matchstick Okra Fries, which are thinly sliced, crisply fried, and served with a lime wedge, providing a delightful crunch and tang.

For the main course, the Butter Chicken Thali is highly recommended. This dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich tomato-cream sauce, accompanied by basmati rice, garlic naan, masala slaw, and a sweet yogurt sauce that balances the spices perfectly.

Vegetarian options are plentiful, with dishes like the Paneer Tikka Roll—a wrap filled with spiced paneer cheese, complemented by fresh vegetables and chutneys—showcasing the restaurant's versatility.

**Beverage Selection**

The drink menu at Chai Pani offers traditional Indian beverages such as chai and lassi, alongside inventive cocktails like the Jal Jeera—a blend of tequila, spices, and mint—and the Bold Fashioned, featuring house masala bourbon, orange syrup, and bitters.

**Service and Dining Experience**

The staff at Chai Pani are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to a dining experience that is both enjoyable and efficient. Given the restaurant's popularity, especially after receiving national recognition, wait times can be considerable. However, the establishment's system of taking phone numbers and notifying guests when their table is ready allows patrons to explore downtown Asheville while awaiting their turn.

**Community Engagement**

Beyond its culinary achievements, Chai Pani is noted for its commitment to social justice, supporting various causes and engaging with the community. This dedication adds a layer of integrity to the establishment, resonating with patrons who value businesses that contribute positively to society.

**Conclusion**

Chai Pani successfully brings the dynamic flavors of Indian street food to Asheville, offering a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. The combination of a vibrant atmosphere, diverse menu, and commendable service makes it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. While the increased popularity may lead to longer wait times, the quality of the food and the overall experience justify the patience. For those seeking a culinary adventure that captures the essence of Indian street cuisine, Chai Pani stands out as a top destination.

Chai Pani Asheville: Authentic Indian Street Food in South Slope

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Groups

Serves Vegetarian Food

Good for Children

In the vibrant heart of Asheville's South Slope Brewing District lies Chai Pani, a culinary gem that invites you to embark on a flavorful journey to India. This lively restaurant buzzes with energy, adorned with colorful decor and artful touches that reflect the rich heritage of Indian culture. The air is infused with aromatic spices, whetting your appetite for the tantalizing dishes that await. Chai Pani's menu presents an imaginative take on traditional Indian street food, transforming beloved classics into inventive dishes that energize the palate. Dining here isn't just about satisfying hunger; it's an experience brimming with warmth, laughter, and a sense of community.

Chai Pani Asheville

Savor bold Indian flavors at Chai Pani in Asheville's vibrant South Slope Brewing District. Discover culinary magic today!

Chai Pani Asheville: Authentic Indian Street Food in South Slope

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