The MasalaWala

My review is going to be so good, you're going to think I'm family or own it. I swear I'm not. I can tell you, yes, this is the best Indian food I've had since London...Which Indian affeichinados know as the destination for great Indian food in a western country. I can tell you the value is brilliant considering the food is spectacular....But I will tell you this....GO NOW, before it catches on. It will be the new hot restaurant in the city.

In a nutshell, shocked at the poor form regarding the wine. The food was delicious...nothing on menu over $14. Owners sat us...super attentive. We asked for wine list. Very young waiter brought us a few laminated cards, each showing a different wine...no prices. We figured...how much could a glass of wine be, given the menu prices. We ordered 2 glasses white wine. Owners came over many times during meal to chat. Bill comes...$16 per glass...no joke! We called for owners...now they send waiter. We inquire, assuming it's a mistake. He said it was special "french" wine and they only have 2 bottles. It was actually german riesling. We explain that if this is case, the price should be clearly indicated. He left, and owners never come over.

We really enjoyed this place -- the food was very good, and it's a great addition to our end of the Lower East Side; we just wish it were closer. We liked the MasalaWala Pakora Basket, Dahi Puri, naan, Dal Makhani, and Haleem; I think the Dahi Puri is best shared by several people, with its delightful yet intense flavors, though my friend says she could have enjoyed the entire appetizer by herself. We both really liked the Kashmir Pink Chai, but not the Masala soda. The staff and owner are very friendly and open to conversation; the ambiance is spare and simple, with carefully chosen decorations (note the connections to spices and street food). Unlike some places in the neighborhood, the music and other background sounds are low, making this restaurant very conducive to conversation.

I have grown up with Indian food and am a total snob when it comes to getting it right. This place gets absolutely does! Great authentic Indian food! Papri Chat starter was unexpectedly great and everything we ordered was delicious. A new local favorite. Would highly recommend it. Also he owner is so sweet and the staff are polite and friendly! It is a true gem!

Born in pakistan and growing up with pakistani food, i've always had to go to queens or brooklyn to properly fulfill my pakistani food cravings. masalawala is the closest thing in manhattan. we tried the chicken biryani and the haleem. we also tried the spicy egg (it was earlier in the day so i was craving a little breakfast) those three things were right on point. can't wait to try some of the other things on the menu. if you're eating there, the plates a little flimsy but i like the environmentally friendly choice so it's worth the sacrifice ;) if you like spicy authentic south asian food, this is a must try...

Highly recommended. So fresh. Cool vibe. Love the palm leaf plates. Extremely friendly and gracious staff.