Food lovers in the DMV, get your appetites ready! We've got some seriously exciting news that's sure to spice up your culinary scene. Chai Pani, the Asheville-based Indian street food sensation that snagged the prestigious James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2022, is officially setting up shop right here in Washington, D.C.!
Yes, you read that right. The beloved eatery known for its "funky" and authentic take on Indian street snacks is heading north, and they've chosen the vibrant Union Market District as their new flagship location. Mark your calendars for August, because that's when you can expect to dive into their mouthwatering menu at 1325 Fifth St., NE.
This isn't just another expansion, though. Chai Pani's move to D.C. marks an exciting collaboration with another culinary heavyweight: Vishwesh “Vish” Bhatt. This two-time James Beard Award-winning chef and cookbook author, who has been a cornerstone of the Oxford, Mississippi food scene for decades, will be joining Chai Pani as its executive chef in the new D.C. location.
The partnership between Chai Pani owner Meherwan Irani and Chef Bhatt is a story of shared heritage and Southern roots. Both chefs, born in India and having made their homes in the South, forged a strong friendship over their similar experiences. Now, they're teaming up to bring Chai Pani's magic beyond the South for the very first time.
So, what can you expect from Chai Pani in D.C.? Get ready for a delightful array of traditional, non-Westernized Indian street food that has earned them national acclaim. Think flavorful bites like:
- Sev Potato Dahi Puri: A symphony of textures and tastes with crispy wafers, potatoes, yogurt, and chutneys.
- Vada Pav: Mumbai's iconic spiced potato fritter nestled in a soft bun.
- Bhel Puri: A vibrant and crunchy mix of puffed rice, vegetables, and tangy sauces.
But Chai Pani isn't afraid to get a little creative, blending Southern influences into their offerings. Keep an eye out for their signature Southern-inflected inventions such as:
- Crispy Okra Fries: A deliciously addictive Southern staple with an Indian twist.
- Kale Pakoras: Crispy and flavorful fritters made with healthy kale.
- The infamous "Sloppy Jai" Sandwich: A spiced lamb creation that's sure to be a hit.
With Chef Bhatt at the helm, the D.C. location will also shine a spotlight on snacks from his native Gujarat and will embrace the bounty of the Mid-Atlantic's seasonal ingredients. Imagine the possibilities of incorporating fresh Chesapeake seafood into their street food concept! Chef Bhatt himself expressed his excitement for the four seasons and the opportunity to work with local seafood.
For Irani, the bustling atmosphere of the Union Market District felt like a perfect fit. And the good news doesn't stop there! He also has plans to bring his fast-casual grill concept, Botiwalla, to the Upton Place development in Tenleytown in the future.
Can't wait until August to get a taste? You're in luck! Chai Pani will be previewing their offerings at the New Kitchens on the Block event at Mess Hall on April 26th. This is your chance to get a sneak peek at what's in store for D.C.'s food scene.
Meherwan Irani and his wife Molly first launched Chai Pani in Asheville in 2009, followed by an Atlanta-area location in 2013. Their commitment to authentic flavors and a vibrant dining experience led to their well-deserved James Beard recognition. Now, their collaboration with Chef Bhatt in D.C. promises to be an exciting new chapter.
Despite their Southern roots, both Irani and Bhatt believe that the core values of Chai Pani – localism, hospitality, and community – are universal. They are passionate about celebrating Indian street food in its truest form, without unnecessary frills or modernizations.
So, D.C., are you ready for a taste of award-winning Indian street food with a Southern soul? Get ready to welcome Chai Pani to the neighborhood – your taste buds will thank you!