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Decatur: Chai Pani

Chai Pani is the new south Indian spot located in the old Watershed location in downtown Decatur. It's a large, well-lit space that gives the feel of a moderately upscale restaurant, coupled with the casualness of chaat. The service was friendly and very helpful.

I started with the matchstick okra fries, which were my favorite. The okra was cut paper thin---I'm very impressed with their slicing technique---and fried to melt in your mouth. The okra flavor comes through extremely clearly. Overall, the taste of fresh vegetables was the consistent theme of the restaurant. A typical chaat restaurant is making fast food and the flavors can get a little lost. The artisanal approach to chaat gives the old standards some real punch.

This is a mixed vegetable uttapam. The pancake is thicker than a French crepe and a little thinner than an American pancake, resulting in a hearty meal. The mixture of fresh vegetables on top popped out with vegetable flavor, making a great combination with the pancake. The vegetable stew served as the side was spicy enough to get your attention but not overpowering. I had chai to drink; the tea and milk were in perfect balance.

I love papadum, so I finished the meal with an order. They were a great treat. Both the tamarind and mint chutneys were excellent.

Chai Pani on Urbanspoon

Chai Pani

Comments

  1. Glad to see you reviewed this one. It needs more pub!

    FnS.

    ReplyDelete

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