Chai Pani

Chai Pani is an Asheville crown jewel. Not only is their Indian street food amazing, but their atmosphere is fun and laid back. It’s actually a fun restaurant to take kids in Asheville. You definitely wouldn’t expect such a casual place to win the 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant, but once you go you’ll see why!

We love all of the food we have tried at Chai Pani. A few absolute standout dishes are their kale pakora, matchstick okra fries, fish sandwich and butter chicken. And don’t sleep on their ‘Sloppy Jai’– a sloppy joe but with spiced lamb hash.

If you aren’t yet convinced, Chai Pani was voted one of New York Times’ favorite restaurants in 2021!