If you are looking for a traditional Indian food experience, look elsewhere. If you are looking for something experiential with a fun twist on Indian food, you need to try Haldi Chowk. Again, this is really not the place to order traditional Indian food. The beauty lies in the modern, creative dishes and flavors. In fact, if you want to order a traditional dish, the owner will likely not let you!! But letting him guide my journey was the best choice because we had some exciting flavors that are unlike anything else you will try. My favorites were the bhel puri with guacamole (so good with some papadum to dip) and the malai kofta tacos. They were absolute flavor perfection and so unique. The ambience is super casual but the owner will treat you like it is a Michelin star dining experience! He brought out lots of fun (free) snacks in between the courses. Given this, I would prepare for at least 2 hours for the full dine in experience. Again, not what you would expect from an Indian spot in a strip mall but it was such an unexpected delight. Overall it was an excellent culinary experience but make sure you reset your expectations if you are looking for quick, traditional Indian cuisine. They also don't use seed oil and use pure tallow as fat if that is your thing. PS it's BYOB so make a nice night out of it! read more

Located in a strip mall, the restaurant could have been easily overlooked. But this is a must try destination. Every dish we tried was simply amazing. And if you are feeling adventurous, leave the ordering to the chef. You will not be disappointed. read more

I seriously don't know where to begin with this review. We have eaten here many times and every time I walk out I can't help but wonder, how is this restaurant and chef not Michelin rated. If you are looking for the best kept secret in all of New Jersey, I am telling you this is the place. The presentation of food is just remarkable by itself, but once you bite, it's a journey of flavors, textures, spices and finishes. Tonight we had a new dessert which I would describe as one of, if not the best dessert I have ever tried and I am not a dessert guy. This started out as what looks like a chocolate cake with some nuts on top. But then you take a bite and immediately sense what seems like warm chocolate cake but then immediately turns into more of a brownie texture as you begin to chew. It then softly melts in your mouth while you try to grasp all the flavors you're experiencing. But then you realize that they saved the best for last. The end comes with a surprise chili flavor that adds a perfect heat and finish to the bite. Oh, and did I mention that the chef personally comes out to your table and explains the dishes, how they are prepared and the types of ingredients used in each of the dishes you order. Not only is he a chef but also a nutritionalist, so all of the foods are made fresh with no preservatives or sugars. The cheeses used in his dishes, he makes there onsite himself - without the sodium. I have several GI issues and I almost always have issues eating at restaurants. I have never had one issue eating at Haldi Chowk. This is so much more than a meal. It's an experience. read more

Haldi Chowk - Dessert menu - Indian Near Me - Middletown, New Jersey

Unassuming Indian restaurant taking on a fun, fusion take on traditional Indian dishes. I love how passionate Chef Salil is, who came out to greet our table and shared his vision for each dish. He even brought out a few complimentary samples of appetizers and desserts for us. We learned that every dish is free of oils and sugars (he uses dates as sweetener!), and I truly didn't feel as heavy or bloated after eating here. Very clean, healthy, and tasty food in general. My friend and I shared a few dishes and enjoyed everything from start to finish. The bhel and beet croquettes were great starters, and I loved the butter paneer lasagna (10/10 would order again). There are no prices on the menu but you can expect around the $20s range for the entrees. Fantastic spot, which seems unassuming from the outside. Would definitely come back again next time I'm in the area! read more

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What a wonderful dining experience! The owner treated us to a kind of "omakase" course, serving creative and delicious dishes we had never tried before. Each one was beautifully presented and full of amazing flavor. I've never had anything like this at an Indian restaurant before. We were pleasantly surprised and can't wait to come back for more! read more

Came by for dinner. Ambiance is casual, service is pleasant and the food is truly unique. This place is the definition of hidden gems. VIP boutique dinning experience from a strip mall establishment. Chief's menu contains dishes that is a new interpretation on traditional items. All while including options not seen elsewhere (meatball masala, lamb ravioli, etc). If they weren't as far we'd be regularly visiting. Highly recommend. read more

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What a delicious dinner! The chef explained a variety of creative appetizer choices - try the Beet Croquette! - in addition to main courses. Everything was beautifully prepared and best of all - much healthier for you than your average Indian food restaurant. We will be back often. read more

I expected to find typical Indian fare, but was happily surprised that the owner/chef suggested he prepare non-menu items for us as a foodie adventure. Wow! Every course was unique and full of complex flavors, really exciting small courses. Highly recommend letting him guide you! read more

I came here today because I was with a friend that never tried Indian food before. The food was very good, but it was more of an Indian American fusion food. We ordered the truffle mushroom ravioli, the lamb Naanchos, which is nachos made out of naan bread and deep fried. I also ordered a lamb biryani and that was very tasty. I had a pineapple and ginger juice which was good and did not have sugar. The chef was very nice and friendly, but a bit intrusive. The chef explained that they do not use sugar and they do not use any type of seed oil, but they use tallow from chicken and I think beef. What I didn't like was that the menu did not list any of the prices and according to Google, their prices were between $20 -$30, which is what I was looking for, but ended being more. I wanted to have a quick and inexpensive lunch because we were running off to look at some properties and we were pressed for time. The meal with Tip came out to $52 each, which was more than what I've paid for lunch in New York City. When paying for the meal, I had to pay first before I could see the bill. This was odd, considering the lack of price on the menu. Another issue for me was that the chef was going down the menu line by line and explaining in detail the food, what was in it and how it was made. It would have been fine if he was explaining specials but no he was about to explain the entire menu. I already knew what I wanted and before he could get too far into the menu, I asked him if he was planning to explain all the items in the menu to which he responded yes. I told him that I just didn't have time for that because we needed to be somewhere. I felt bad and a bit rude, but I had to let him know because it was beginning to stress me out that he wanted to explain every single item. He also kept interrupting and bringing different items for us to try and letting us know how it was made, while it was very nice of him, it just prolonged the meal and I felt like a guinea pig. He should've asked if we were interested in learning about all the menu items. So just keep this mind when coming here to dine when it's a slow day. Maybe he did that because no one else was in the restaurant, but I just don't know. I'm not sure if I'll return unless they change their practice of not listing prices and not presenting a bill before payment. read more

This place is my go to Indian restaurant, but this time, we had it delivered. It seemed like the takeout menu was more traditional than the in-house menu, so next time we will visit rather than do delivery. My seafood biryani was very good, but the lamb chorizo was dry. The shahi chicken korma was good and chicken tikka masala was typical. read more

Absolutely love this place! It's my go to place and never get disappointed. In fact, it keeps getting better. I usually order my normal Chana Masala but tried their vegetable Enchilada with side salad and chick peas. It was amazing! Next time I will order medium as spicy is SPICY!!! My husband loves the Chicken Tika Nanza. It's his go to! I definitely recommend going in person as the owner and restaurant is great! read more

Haldi Chowk - Chicken Tika Naan Pizza - Indian Near Me - Middletown, New Jersey

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We got lucky to have gone on a random day they weren't busy. The chef was super attentive and accommodating. He asked us what we liked and what our spice and cheese tolerance was etc. The food was so delicious. The style is American-Indian fusion. The food is unique and has a healthy spin on comfort food. We got the truffle filled samosas which are to die for, then the chef came out with various samples of new menu items, all of them amazing. For the main dish we had lasagna with paneer and I'm still in awe of the paneer ricotta! The kitchen is sugar free & use dates, but desserts are yummy. The atmosphere was great too. I can't wait to go back! read more

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This place is the best of fine dining with an indian fusion menu Had 1 appetizer and 2 mains. all were original dishes and all were excellent. a true 5 star experience. l read more

Haldi Chowk - Amazing Lamb curry and more - Indian Near Me - Middletown, New Jersey

Service and food were excellent. Large portions so be sure to go in with a large appetite.

We walked into Haldi Chowk for the first time, hoping for a decent Indian meal, and walked out amazed at the creativity and intense flavors of the food. Salil, the chef and owner, gave us the royal treatment and certainly ate like kings. The arancini was amazing, only to be outdone by the ravioli, stuffed with mushrooms and truffles. Sounds like an Italian place, right? Delicious and unique food, an amazing experience! Go there!' read more

This place was nothing short of amazing! My family and friends are big foodies--we've tried some of the best spots all across New Jersey. We even keep a running list of top restaurants, and this one immediately made the cut. I can't recommend it enough to anyone who loves talking shop about great food. The owner and chef, Sal, is incredible. His passion for what he does is contagious, and his commitment to both health and quality is beyond admirable. He personally took the time to explain the menu to us, and honestly, by the time he was done describing the intricate concepts of Indian fusion cuisine, I wanted to order one of everything. You can tell he puts his heart and soul into every dish. Let me try to describe what we had (though I know I won't do these dishes justice). We started with Sal's take on arancini balls, which were a special that night, filled with a flavorful cilantro-infused chicken--so unique and absolutely delicious. Then we tried the beef kebabs, another special, made with American Wagyu beef along with two other meats I can't quite remember. Both the truffle mushroom ravioli and the beef ravioli were exceptional, with ravioli encased in samosa dough and topped with a dreamy garlic cream sauce. Oh, and the Malai Chicken Tikka Taco were phenomenal. The portions were generous, and even though we were stuffed, we couldn't stop eating because it was all so good. Even my daughter, the pickiest eater in the family, polished off her chicken tenders and fries. Of course, Chef Sal gave even this kid's meal his special touch, and it did not disappoint. Dessert was the perfect ending to an already incredible meal. We tried the Chai-misu (a chai-inspired twist on tiramisu), the Indian cheesecake (made without sugar, using in-house date syrup instead), and an ice cream sampler featuring berry, coconut, green tea, mango, and chocolate. The chocolate, by the way, was almost fudge-like, with just a hint of hazelnut. We were so full at this point, but the desserts were too good not to finish. Oh, and did I mention it's BYOB? Yet another reason we'll definitely be back soon. read more

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The food is very fresh. Everything is really homemade. No seed oils!! Chef Sal explains every dish. This is our new favorite place to eat !

What a fine surprise in Middletown, NJ! The exec chef went through the menu expertly, and stressed the fusion vibe of the dishes he proudly presented. We were looking g for more traditional fare, but took some chances and were pleasantly rewarded. The portions are plated artistically, the amount of food is substantial, and the flavors are savory and delicious. I will definitely return to try the other dishes, and I will bring others with me to share the experience. You get a lot of delicious food and it isn't very expensive. A great value. read more

Haldi Chowk - Butter chicken curry - Indian Near Me - Middletown, New Jersey

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Phenomenal food and service, recommendations from the staff were very personal and kind! dessert samples are sugar free with impeccable flavor combos I will 100% be eating here again! read more

Head chef is owner which I love to see. He took his time on a very busy Friday to calmly and excitedly walk me through the menu, especially the hybrid dishes that are very unique to his place. Food was excellent. Service was great. We'll be back! read more

Outstanding food and service! We ordered delivery twice and cannot say how amazing the food here is, Had the lamb sagg,curry goat and Chana masala with garlic nann everything came delivered hot and delicious. read more

I've visited many Asian fusion restaurants, but this one stands out. The chef impressed me by blending Indian cuisine with Italian, Mexican, and French dishes. Lasagna with wagyu meatballs and Tikka Masala was phenomenal! Butter chicken enchiladas were delicious. On my first visit, the Garam Masala Duck Confit was cooked perfectly. Don't miss the desserts--they're exceptional. One of the most unique and delicious meals I've ever had. read more

Do not pass by this Indian restaurant! The food is incredible. It opens at 1:00 for lunch and hopefully you're not in a hurry because the owner explains everything from ingredients to how it is cooked. He also brought us samples of a few items on the menu for us to try. It isn't a large space so he was able to give all the patrons attention. BUT it is the food that is incredible. Every flavor was distinct and different from other Indian restaurants. read more

Service people couldn't be any nicer and more helpful especially if you have no idea and not or are into spicy food. Food was delicious served hot and timely. I would definitely go back. Wry simple atmosphere. I recommend it. read more

New owner, amazing service Highly recommend a visit Try seafood cakes, Lamb Chorizo , beets & yellow squash croquette and The Malai Chicken Tikka is superb!!! Yum read more

Haldi Chowk - Seafood Cakes - Indian Near Me - Middletown, New Jersey

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Incredible experience. Its not a typical Indian restaurant at all, where the same sauce is used for all or most dishes and they almost all taste similar. Here each dish has a unique flavor and they only make just enough and use only fresh ingredients. The freshness shows in every dish you try, including the desserts. Will definitely go back again. Service is exceptional. The chef came to the table and explained about each and every dish and how its made. read more

Very unique dining experience! Lots of vegetarian options. The chef does explain the fusion menu well, helps to guide you in getting the best from the menu. Everything is delicious, you can't go wrong. read more

Under new ownership. The Asian fusion menu is outstanding. You have to try the Indian Cheese cake! No sugar in deserts. Amazing bonus for diabetic. The chef is a maestro at presentation and at service. He provided a personal touch and gave some free appetizers. I've never heard Xmas music in an Indian restaurant.. outstanding ambience! The classic Indian staples have been enhanced to be beyond delicious! This restaurant will be my place to order food! read more

Creative and delicious. Great service and they took the time to explain all the food.

So my husband and I finally tried out Haldi Chowk Indian cuisine. I think like everyone else who eats food from a different culture, one tends to settle in and order the old "safe" standbys. The first time we went, we stuck to our standby of vegetable basmati and chicken tikka masala. However, chef Salil Bhandari was really excited to tell us about the new items on the fusion menu and his creative and innovative take on updating some of the old dishes. He suggested a few items from the new fusion menu and they did not disappoint. The Wagyu beef meatballs, naan, samosas, and black truffle mushroom ravioli were so delicious, fresh, and packed with a ton of flavor. It reminded me of tapas in Spain. We went again tonight and were excited to let the chef suggest what we should try. We had the cheese spinach cigars, (the Wagyu beef meatballs, and truffle mushroom ravioli--had to have that again! ) and the butter chicken lasagna. It really is such a sensory experience. As you dive in, the food gets tastier with every bite. The mix of wonderful smells and spices and different textures is intoxicating. They will also adjust the heat level to your liking. Medium heat was just perfect for us. To end the meal we were treated to Indian cheesecake, a delicate sponge cake and a trio ice creams: passion fruit with saffron, infused mixed berry, and fig. Everything was outstanding! Trust in the process in what chef Salil is trying to achieve here. If you do, you will be rewarded and taken on a wonderfully delicious and exotic culinary journey. The chef's creative vibe, and vision to put a new spin on the old wheelhouse Indian standbys of traditional dishes is very evident. It's obvious that he is passionate about the food he creates and presents. Chef Salil is confident because he knows the food speaks for itself; it is his testimonial. The dishes are presented beautifully and deliciously. They are made with love that you can taste in every biteful. We're so lucky to live close by. Can't wait to stop in again and for chef to take us on another delectable journey. ~ PS ~They play really great music too read more

First time here and already Haldi Chowk has two new customers who will be coming back. The food is delicious, the ingredients are top notch. Love and care is put into the food here, and you can tell. The owner is super nice, personable and friendly beyond words. He even let us try a free sample each of a dessert he's working on. Chaimisu. Think Indian Tiramisu, with all sorts of spices and flavors, yet the normal structure/build/texture of regular Tiramisu. This was reinventing the wheel, done right. As much as I love Tiramisu? I love THIS just as much, equally 100%. Which is not something I take lightly! We ordered the Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala. Both were delicious, packed with flavor and spices, warm and amazing. We even got some Chilli Garlic Naan, never had that before, but I can't picture my life without it now. Portions are so generous and prices are the best around here. There's really nothing to not love about Haldi Chowk. Under this new management, I see them doing better for themselves now more than ever before. You guys have two new loyal customers, I will be going NO where else for my Indian Cuisine! (( As a Side Note )) Recently ANOTHER Indian restaurant near by we loved going to before (And shall remain nameless), recently sold to new owners. They've changed their recipes and even gotten cheap with ingredients. The difference between THEM and Haldi Chowk is Night and Day (With Haldi Chowk being the bright shining Day... of Flavor!) Thank you guys again! read more

Been trying the new menu items since the place is under new ownership. This is the first time in a long time that a restaurant has exceeded my expectations. Every single bite is perfect and I look forward to seeing all the new changes coming to this spot. Just try it! read more

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Food consistently good. The owner has infused Indian cuisine with other food types. Like pizza, pot pies and nachos . All of them great. Honestly the chicken nachos are addicting . They have traditional Indian dishes as well but we love the fusion dishes. Also, the owner comes to your table and explains his dishes: his enthusiasm is apparent and he brings an extra element to the experience. read more

Dined this evening 7/11/2024 with a party of four. Fantastic service; chief came out to induce the meals. Food so unique and outstanding. Would highly recommend! Thank you for a wonderful meal. read more

This place is incredible, should be packed! The food is creative and incredibly flavorful, the service is personal and first rate. I've been there 4-5 times and each time is better than the last. The atmosphere is relaxed but elegant, and prices are very reasonable! Go! read more

I've never been a huge fan of Asian food, Thai, Chinese... anything. However, the food here has been amazing. The first time I ordered from here they called me and offered me a free dessert. That's the kind of customer service that had me coming back. I've ordered 3 times since. Never had a bad dish, but glad to hear any recommendations. read more

Simply fantastic! This is by far the best Indian fusion food I have had.. We tried the Nanchos with chicken korma, the Lasagna and Seafood Briyani.. Everyone in the family was impressed.. read more

Chef Salil made the experience really special. Instead of ordering off the menu, he brought out dishes based on our preferences. Every dish was better than the next. The beef kabobs were the best I've ever eaten. Instead of offering traditional Indian cuisine he served exciting dishes like arancini with Indian flavors. His passion shows in every dish he serves. I highly recommend! read more

We were so pleasantly surprised by the delicious takeout we ordered from Haldi Chowk! We enjoyed saag paneer, Dahl makhamali, tandoori chicken, Tandoori Shrimp, raita, paneer butter masala, lamb korma & chapati. All delicious! Highly recommend you try this wonderful food! read more

Excellent. If I could just give one work review that would be it. The owner has done great job creating a uniquely delicious menu. He brought us a tasting of a variety of apps and desserts and no one left hungry. Kudos to the chef. He will be renovating to match the menu but honestly I would eat beer regardless!! read more