Lunch @ Chai Pani (Indian street food)
As you walk into Chai Pani, you get a sense of being in India; the colorful walls with authentic Indian paintings and murals to the Indian music being played in the background. While continuing up the entrance way you find yourself at the cashier/order taker. A very pleasant young lady, who will take your order with pleasure and after telling her thank you she will say of course. All employees have learned this response of course. You say thank you to most employees in Chai Pani and they will reply of course; a nice way to interact with your guest base.
After your order has been taken, you will be given your receipt, order number to place on the table and a simple silverware roll-up of a paper napkin, fork and spoon. While walking to the dining room just to the right of the cashier, you will enter a wide, open space similar to a warehouse. All chairs are wooden with a deep colored stain and the tables are of a stainless steel color; somewhat of a color and material contrast that works well with the space. Once seated the Lime Ricky which is a refreshing concoction of house made raspberry syrup, fresh lime juice and soda water; wow that will definitely cleanse your palate and ensure it’s awake for your food. The house made drink was promptly served and garnished with a lime wedge.
While waiting for your food, you will notice a quaint and intimate patio which is surrounded by flowers and moss in the front of the restaurant. Furthermore, the front of the restaurant has large, long windows that are great for people watching however in the back of the restaurant there are only three tiny windows closer to the ceiling which gives the back of the restaurant a darker less lively ambiance.
Back to the food, the chicken pakoras which were delivered very promptly are a mixture of Kashmiri spices and curried chickpea batter. The pakoras come out stacked high life a small Native American mound. They are lightly garnished with fresh herbs on top and are accompanied by a sweet yogurt sauce and fresh green herb chutney. The chicken pakoras are packed with flavor with a crunchy exterior and a succulent, juicy center filled with chicken and spices; what a delicious combination that bursts with flavor when consumed. Moreover, the sauces are a great compliment to the dish; one sauce being creamy and decadent with a hint of sweetness and the other more earthy with full flavor of freshness from the herbs.
Overall, the dining experience at Chai Pani was quick, efficient and flavorful. A spot for lunch is definitely recommended and the quality and quantities will certainly win you over and having returning again and again.
Chai Pani (Indian street food)
406 West Ponce de Leon Ave
Decatur, Ga 30030
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Patio Seating: Yes
Carry-out: Yes
Catering Option: Yes
Lunch: 11:30am-3:00pm
Dinner: 5:30pm-9:30pm (Fri & Sat 10:00pm)