I had dinner with my mom and husband at Chai Pani this past Sunday night and had a great time. I've…read moreheard great things about Chai Pani in Asheville for years, so I was thrilled they opened up a location in DC. Chai Pani serves Indian street food, and the restaurant is vibrant and colorful and fun. The service was also great - friendly, helpful. My mom is vegan, and their menu is very vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. We shared: Disco Bhel (puri, puffed rice, boondi, corn poha, sev, onion, cilantro, roasted peanuts, tamarind & green chutneys, bhel mix, pomegranate); Sweet Potato Chaat (roasted sweet potatoes, pomegranate, masala cashews, golden raisins, red onions, cilantro & corn poha; tossed with tamarind & green chutneys); matchstick okra fries (julienned "okra fries" tossed with salt & seasoning, served with a lime wedge); Sabudana Vada Tots (crispy tater & tapioca tots seasoned with green chillies, curry leaves, cumin & ginger; served with Maggi hot & sweet ketchup); wild mushroom & scallion uttapam (Exotic mixed mushrooms, scallions, green chilli, ginger & curry leaf; served with coconut chutney & ghee-podi); Sloppy Jai (spiced lamb hash simmered with tomatoes, ginger & aromatic spices; garnished with onions & cilantro, green chutney, sweet yogurt & served on two toasted pav); and coconut chutney sorbet Sundae (coconut sorbet infused with hints of ginger, curry leaf, & cumin; topped with a chocolate shell). Everything (with the exception of the lamb take on a sloppy Joe) was vegan or veganized, and everything was delicious. I had reached my alcohol max for the day, so we had some non-alcoholic drinks (even though their drinks looked great). I had their Golden Pineapple (Spicewalla Golden Milk blend mixed with fresh lime and pineapple), and my husband had a Tamarind Cola. With dessert, I also had a Chai - and theirs is a treat (although I wanted to read my book and take a nap right after - the coziest beverage on a rainy day). I had a great time at Chai Pani. Their Indian street food menu is great - I wanted everything. And the service made the meal even better. We had a reservation, and I recommend you make one, too! They had some tables for walk-ins but they were time limited or high-tops. If you want to make sure you get a table, make a reservation ahead of time! I had a great dinner; I'd love to return.

We returned for a second lunch with our daughter--in-law who was visiting from Zanzibar, and were…read moreable to explore more of the menu. She liked the food just as much as we do -- this time we tried the catfish special , catfish koliwada (I confess I was disappointed to find that the dish came in fried bite-sized morsels instead of whole filet), plus the disco bhel, aloo tikki chaat, and lamb kala masala (my favorite of them all), as well as another kale pakora chaat. Our daughter-in-law wanted some extra spice and was brought a small plate with a few hot peppers and a very spicy pickle (a small extra charge). One disappointment was the very loud music blaring , making it harder to chat in a normal voice -- the maitre d' explained that it is equally loud throughout the restaurant, providing an atmosphere comparable to Mumbai. I was not impressed by that excuse (and besides, it was NOT that loud every where in Mumbai when we were there 25 years ago) Sill, good and interesting food. A recommended place

Rasika had been on my list for at least a decade, as the place had been a renowned Indian…read moredestination for years. Its high-end, refined dining experience made it a real standout for the who's who in DC. While they have two locations, we would up at the one closest to the center of downtown in Penn Quarter, as that was where we had plans later in the night. We were able to get a reservation around 8:15 pm, which was a bit later than my desired time, but it actually worked out perfectly since the staff had their process down to a flawless flow that allowed us to eat at a perfect pace and still make our second reservation for the evening. The dining room was completely packed, but the efficient staff did not miss a beat and did so with gracious friendliness. The dining room was very refined and classy without being over-the-top or ornate. While I skipped a beverage, I did have a sip of the lightly sweet and spicy Mumbai Manhattan, a crisp blend of Old Forester Bourbon, all-spice liqueur, Maraschino, and bitters. Unfortunately, the restaurant did not serve complimentary Papadams, so, instead, we decided to start by sharing an order of the Sweet Potato Samosas, which we were told included three pieces. Well, these were not your typical, deep-fried stuffed pyramids, but were, instead, lightly crispy phyllo pastry beggar's purses stuffed with mashed sweet potatoes. They were served with a cranberry chutney that brought even more Fall notes to the dish. They were small but delicious morsels of seasonal flavor. The restaurant's main courses were very interesting and included ingredients not often seen on Indian menus, such as duck, plantains, and more. For my meal, though, I kept it simple by ordering the Mixed Grill from the clay oven, which included a variety of proteins that were all excellent. The Tandoori Salmon was seasoned with Kashmiri chili, cinnamon, and black pepper for a lightly sweetened heat. The Chicken Tikka chunks were perfectly lean and tender, and the Truffle Seekh Kebab was an aromatic link made of seasoned, minced lamb. I paired the robust meats with some basmati rice and a slices of both the Garlic Naan and the Onion and Sage Naan, both of which were thin, yet fluffy. I also made sure to get a spoonful of my companion's Gosht Ahuna, a saucy lamb dish that was infused with onion, red chili, cinnamon, and whole garlic. The sauce had such a warming depth of flavor that was perfect for dipping our breads into. As I had mentioned, we were able to conclude our dinner in a swift fashion that even allowed us a few extra moments before we had to leave, so we decided to indulge in a dessert course to use up some time. We got the Chocolate Samosas, which again used phyllo dough that was formed into two small triangles that were full of oozing chocolate sauce. There was a scoop of home made chocolate mint ice cream that was light, refreshing, and not overly sweet to allow it to better pair with the gooey samosa interior that was, in fact, very sweet. From the elegant decor and upscale clientele to the perfectly executed food and professional service, Rasika did not disappoint. The restaurant was completely deserving of all of its praise, even after all of these years.

Came in on a weekday and had a lovely dinner! Two of us shared two appetizers and split an entree…read moreand dessert. The appetizers Palak chaat and Papadum were both tasty and healthy portions. They complimented our pre-dinner drinks. I loved my cocktail which was like an old fashioned. For the main we split the dal makhani (could eat a bucket of this!), garlic naan (so warm and yummy!), and a duck dish. For dessert we split the gulag jamun. No leftovers and everything was delicious!!!! The chef came out and we took a pik! Service was perfect. We never felt rushed. The decor is relaxing and the perfect spot after a stressful week.

Wow! We had such an amazing experience at Goat Room Indian Cuisine! Being from the Bay Area, where…read morewe have some incredible Indian food, I came in with high expectations--and this place completely exceeded them. Every dish was packed with rich, authentic flavors and perfectly balanced spices. We ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala, Veggie Korma, Shrimp Korma, garlic naan, cheese naan, plain naan, fragrant rice, and tea. The owner also recommended an appetizer, and we're so glad we listened because it was absolutely delicious! The service was just as outstanding as the food. The owner personally checked on us several times, made thoughtful recommendations, and made us feel so welcome. Our waiter was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal. If you're looking for authentic, flavorful Indian cuisine with exceptional hospitality, this is the place. We loved every bite and can't wait to come back. Highly recommend!

What a find! Had no idea about GOAT room, just stumbled upon it on a Saturday and decided to check…read moreit out. So glad we did, here's the hits and misses; Chicken Shammi kabab: you get two pieces (just a heads up) but they are delicious 2 pieces. Flavorful and not at all dry. The chutney that comes with it is SO fresh it tastes like it is made in house. Absolute hit! Masala fries with tikka masala sauce: SOOO good. Love the idea of using a tikka masala sauce to replace ketchup. Fries themselves aren't spicy at all but they come out hot and crisp on the outside with fluffy insides. Definitely a hit as a veg app option Whiskey smash: "good" (husband ordered this and that's all I could get out of him) Chai: excellent, satisfying, soul soothing stuff. Another hit, so much so that I had 2. Daal makhani: creamy consistency, lots of lentils, just delish comfort food. Not very spicy so if you want it spicier add some of that kabab green chutney Garlic naan: fluffy and soft. Not super garlicy but just enough to make it enjoyable but not overpowering. GOAT room has a convenient location near the DC convention center. Restaurant itself is open and airy. Good service, no issues there. Looking forward to our next visit!

This place is so good!! When we walked in there was only one other table with customers, and I…read morewondered if I had made a mistake. However, by the time we left they were packed, and everyone there enjoyed the bright atmosphere, attentive waitstaff, and delicious food. We tried several dishes--we got the fried chili buff momos. I will definitely get. Them again, but steamed. Honestly, I think that I could make an entire meal of momos. We got veggie samosas--standard--crisp, plump, a little salty, and good. We also got a creamy chicken dish and an okra (bhindi) dish. Both were very good. The service was exemplary--there was a team of four or five dedicated staff who rotated through with dishes and takeaways. Oh! I almost forgot the garlic naan--some of the best I have had. Definitely stop in and give this place some love!!

We had lovely service and great new food by folks for whom this was a familiar cuisine, which…read morehelped us choose several delicious entrees, and ....MOMOS! Not like all the other dumplings! It was not noisy but was softly lit and comfortable (not fancy)

We ordered a Thali. Everything was delicious, and the service was very good. I can't wait to return.read more

So darn yummy! Food-…read morehonestly the best flavored Indian food takeout in dc. (I've never eaten inside) the food is flavorful and interesting. Inside- the decor is nice and appeared to be clean. Service- I ordered takeout and food was ready when they said. * I do feel like the portions got smaller and priced higher, but what you gonna do!

Pappe was on the bucket list especially with my newfound love of Indian cuisine, and after a friend…read moresent me the IG post a few times it was officially on the must try list. I am so glad we finally made it. 14th Street is quite busy and parking is a nightmare but somehow we manifested the best spots almost right behind each other across the street. A 5:30pm arrival gave us plenty of time to get happy hour in and the bar was fairly empty when we walked in which was a bonus. The atmosphere was inviting from the moment I walked in. My friend was already at the bar and the manager was already on it, making sure we were both well taken care of for the rest of the night. The bar itself was something to take in with exposed brick walls, deep red accents, and a sliding ladder to reach the wooden liquor cabinets above, a detail that only added to the atmosphere. On to the food. Manchurian wings, vegetable samosas, and a lamb shish kebab roll to kick things off. The wings were unlike any I have had before, not your typical crispy wing but cooked with a heavenly rub and sauce that was flavorful with a nice spice kick at the end. Add the sauce that comes with it to cool things down but I promise you will not stop eating them. The vegetable samosas were a favorite and the lamb shish kebab roll came wrapped in a pita but with everything else we had ordered and what was still coming we opted to take it with us. The entrees followed with the butter chicken, naan medley, and wild mushroom biryani. The butter chicken sauce was one of the best I have ever had, rich with flavor and the chicken cooked perfectly. The wild mushroom biryani was the showstopper from the presentation to the meaty mushrooms that stole the show. I was so excited. The chutneys were also a must and the chickpea one far exceeded expectations with a touch of sweet and spicy that I honestly cannot put into words. We even saved room for dessert and I am so glad we did. The Gulab Jamun was the best I have had, with a rose and cardamom-infused sugar syrup that did not overpower it or the ice cream. The manager also created a chai twist on an espresso martini and it was the perfect way to end the night. There were so many highlights but one to mention was when the bartender arrived! She's an opera singer with skills behind the bar to match and she was so excited to answer every question we had. Her energy added to that of the entire staff who was attentive to every patron in the restaurant. That really made the night memorable. We left with a night snack and lunch for the next day and before heading out we stopped by the consignment shop across the street for a little retail therapy. I even squeezed in a visit to a friend close by. Already planning the next visit. Pappe is a bar worth gathering at and certainly a table worth coming back to again and again.

!!! Never heard of…read morethis place under we tried them for restraunt week and happy hour. THIS. IS. A. MUST. TRY!! Bartenders new how to make a great cocktail (always appreciate that!). The food was PHENOMENAL. Very authentic and flavorful. And the ambiance was chic and traditional. Highly reccomend the butter chicken but ask them to make it spicy. They also had amazing garlic naan and we ordered roasted cheddar and onion as well. The kale chaat was crunchy and SOOOO good. The lamb was also sooo good. (Not everyone knows how to cook it Im super picky.) Id def go back again.

This place is amazing all around!…read more My family (through a DC friend) has been going to this restaurant (and its manager's predecessor) for many years now! The food is consistently fresh and delicious and spiced very well with lots of spice levels available. The restaurant is always very clean too! The service and attention to detail among each server is always impeccable--they consistently come around with water and are always happy to help you with whatever you may need. The manager Sanjeet is such a kind and friendly man. Each time we come (may it be for pickup or dine-in) he greets us by name with open arms. He is always happy to help and happy to talk whenever! Overall, this restaurant is fabulous and on behalf of my family and I, is greatly recommended!!!

We stopped by Jab We Met Indian Kitchen for dinner while visiting Washington, DC, and loved it so…read moremuch that we came back the very next day for lunch! The Palak Chaat and Palak Paneer were the highlights of our meals--both were packed with flavor and are a must-try. We also tried a couple of desserts, and they were a great way to end the meal. If you're looking for delicious Indian food in DC, I highly recommend giving this place a try. We'll definitely be back the next time we're in town.

I got the Chicken Naan Pizza, with extra chicken, and it was absolutely delicious! I mean…read moredelicious! 10/10. I also got the Bahu Bali Burger with chicken. It was great as well but I'm def getting the Pizza again.

I've had a lot of bad service in Washington DC but this place takes the cup. Extremely rude and…read morecombative person behind the counter who was picking a fight with every customer the hour we were there. One regular customer was complaining of shrinkflation and how he was only served half a cup of something that he used to always receive a full cup of. The staff from the kitchen walked out and piled onto him to make the environment uncomfortable for everyone else present. She forgot our order and when we checked in the first time, she said it was being prepared. The second time we checked on it after 30 minutes of waiting, she said we never ordered it. Once again, she called in staff from the kitchen to loudly shout her version of events and make them all side with her and shout back at us. Wtf Clearly one or the other was a lie - why tell us 15m ago it was being prepared. All we kept trying to say is can you please now make the dosa. And they were more interested in being angry and defensive back at us. The dosa was terrible because they put sugar in the batter and in the sambhar. Also, the bathroom is nasty here, even in the morning.

Good quality food with unique fusions and creative add-ins to typical Indian dishes. It's…read morehigher-end, but not super elegant or fancy, instead it's more of a semi-casual atmosphere Definitely palatable for those who are new to Indian food or can't handle much spice. My Korean parents LOVED all the dishes! I thought everything was really yummy too, but personally, I wish it was spicier!! Mushroom Biryani (4.5/5) Solid biryani with a nice umami flavor from the mushrooms. I really like the bread top - you can dip it into any of the sauces you get. The fig raita is delicious too. Branzino (6/5) SO good. Beautiful, meaty fish. They didn't have the typical side that comes with it, so they replaced it with the cabbage, and it was honestly so good. I also really liked the sauce that came with it. Daal Burrata (2.5/5) Bland. It didn't really taste like much to me, and I don't think the creamy burrata added much to the dish. Chicken Tikka Masala (5/5) Yummy, tender chicken pieces. Probably the dish most similar to classic Indian food/takeout. Paneer Lasagna (3.5/5) Very unique dish! I liked the creamy sauce, but I wasn't a huge fan of the crunchy paneer bits. The saag flavor was also pretty light - I wanted MORE saag :) Very nice workers and a semi-casual interior. Service was good. Waiter helped us think through which dishes to order and how or why. Would recommend!! But don't expect your typical Indian takeout ;)

Daru is a top tier restaurant with high quality service. Marvin is awesome and really nice! I loved…read morethe appetizers. The momi was very flavorful and was accompanied with a creamy sauce. The spicy duck kebabs were amazing and came with a sweet sauce and and a creamy sauce. I'm not sure why they call it Duck kebabs when it is actually goat though. We ordered the lamb chops and cabbage and chicken tikka masala. Those items were good, but nothing really impressive. I did enjoy the potatoes and they all have potential with a tad more seasoning. The dessert was amazing! It was their version of floral donut holes and ice cream. I will definitely be back!

Great service and very unpretentious IMO. We had an amazing meal and all agree this is our favorite…read moreIndian restaurant in DC! We did not have a single bad dish. The four of us ordered different things and really enjoyed them all. The standouts were the oysters, lamb shank, and the duck. However, everything was fantastic. The cocktails were delicious and served in a whimsical fashion. We really enjoyed ourselves and want to return ASAP!

Beautiful Restaurant, and the service was okay (for Michelin). There was just something our…read moreexperience lacked here. I didn't take any photos because I really just wanted to enjoy it, etc., without whipping out my phone for every course. Even for a Micheline restaurant, I felt it unnecessary to serve the drinks on their own stage/platter with other things surrounding it (inedible trinkets and whatnots). The drink is presented to you, and the whole "stage" for the drink gets whisked away. I say bring the drink in the glass you're supposed to drink out of and let it speak for itself. Maybe this is done for quick Instagram picture moments? Other than that...meh...My husband did enjoy his drink, and I thought it was wonderful as well, as I tasted it. The Stage presentation was so unnecessary to me, though. Unfortunately, there are no non-alcoholic spirits, and for a Michelin-Star restaurant. I feel like this is a must have (non alcholoic, wines, sparklings, whiskeys, gins, ect.) That would be my number one recommendation for this spot. We found the menu a bit confusing at first, and didn't receive the best explanation of what the "rundown" was on how to order. Each course was okay, Service was quick to put the dish in front of us, and wander off, without explanation of what was going on, on the plate ( ya, we picked out what we ordered, doesn't necessarily mean we knew what we were eating lol)... The best dishes for both my husband and I were the mains. He had a monkfish, and I had the crispy duck...pretty good Our mains came with really great rice and lentils. The Naan, was incredibly underwhelming, didn't seem like it was the freshest, and lacked the salt and fat/butter/herbs and warmth I was hoping for. So interesting experience overall...