Chai Pani

Chai Pani is a Hindi phrase that translates as "tea with water." The phrase "a little something" refers to going out for a cup of tea, a nice nibble, a snack, or "a little something." It means inventive, exciting, inexpensive, and delectable Indian cuisine in Downtown Asheville (and now in Downtown Decatur, as well as other locations). Even the term "mindblasting" comes to mind when we think about it. Some of the greatest cuisine in any country can be found on the streets, and Chai Pani is home to chaat, which are crunchy, spicy, sweet, sour, and brilliantly colored Indian street snacks with a variety of flavors. For the simple reason that there is nothing more soothing and delectable in any culture than a home-cooked dinner, Chai Pani also offers thalis, which are traditional Indian family meals that showcase the country's incredible culinary diversity. The New York Times praised our "fresh, cilantro-strewn twists on Indian street cuisine," GQ Magazine praised our "Indian street food with a twang," and New York Magazine hailed us as "a star in downtown's eating scene." We also received positive reviews from other publications. According to the Huffington Post, we were one of the "Top 10 Cheap Eats in the United States," and even Fox News referred to us as "the hit of their Asheville trip." (We're simply relieved that we were able to get them all to agree on anything)! So, now that we've made it all the way from Bombay to Buncombe, let's get out on the sidewalk and into the street — Indian Street Food, to be precise. (I couldn't help myself!) From Bombay to Buncombe, and from Asheville to Atlanta, Chai Pani has brought our passion for food, culinary experience, and storytelling to the Southeastern United States and Canada. The day we opened the doors of CHAI PANI ASHEVILLE in 2009 was a monument to our determination, love, and friendship with one another. By midday, we had run out of food. Whatever happened after that is history...