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The World’s greatest buffet is back! Come before its gone. Some of the best food of any country is its street food, and Chai Pani features chaat – crunchy, spicy, sweet, tangy, brightly flavored Indian street snacks. And because there’s nothing more comforting and delicious in any culture than a home cooked meal, Chai Pani also brings you thalis – traditional family meals highlighting India’s amazing culinary diversity. GQ Magazine lauded our “Indian street food with a twang,” and New York Magazine called us a star in downtown’s dining scene.” Meherwan Irani has been nominated for James Beard ‘Best Chef SouthEast’ four times, and Chai Pani was named one of the 50 Most Exciting Restaurants in the US by the New York Times in 2021.
Indian chaat (street snacks) plus homestyle platters (thalis) in a funky, laid-back space.
Hours
| Thursday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Monday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 32 Banks Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: (828) 254-4003
Website: https://www.chaipani.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Order: Order online
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Chai Pani Asheville
Chai Pani Asheville … 32 Banks Ave. … Indian Street Food. The everyday cuisine of a billion people. Joyful. Colorful. Raucous. Delicious. Shareable. Communal.
Chai Pani
Mindblasting Indian Street Food | Asheville, NC & Atlanta, GA.
Asheville Menu – Chai Pani
See our latest menu, find our hours, and order online directly from us. Locations in Decatur, GA, Asheville, NC, Washington, DC.
Reviews
Liz by Design Photography LLC
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Indian street food experience in Asheville, North Carolina, you have to visit Chai Pani. This place completely exceeded our expectations and delivered one of the most unique and delicious dining experiences we’ve had in Asheville.
We sampled a little bit of everything — from rich, flavorful butter chicken to perfectly spiced veggie patties and crispy fried okra — and every single dish was packed with bold, authentic flavor. But the true standout of the meal was the roasted potatoes topped with green chutney, yogurt, and crunchy bits. They were absolutely incredible. Everyone at our table — from 4 years old to 45 — went back for seconds. That dish alone is worth the visit!
I also loved trying authentic Indian chai tea, which felt like such a special touch and added to the immersive experience. We ended the meal with gulab jamun (India’s version of a donut soaked in sweet syrup), and it was the perfect indulgent finale.
From a convenience standpoint, there is paid parking right outside the restaurant, which made access easy and stress-free. We visited on a weekday at lunch and only waited about 10 minutes — very reasonable for such a popular Asheville restaurant.
The atmosphere at Chai Pani is absolutely top notch. The decor, branding, and overall vibe are beautifully executed and create a fun, vibrant environment that enhances the entire dining experience.
If you’re searching for the best Indian restaurant in Asheville, authentic Indian street food, or a unique downtown Asheville dining experience, Chai Pani should be at the top of your list. We will absolutely be back!
… moreWe sampled a little bit of everything — from rich, flavorful butter chicken to perfectly spiced veggie patties and crispy fried okra — and every single dish was packed with bold, authentic flavor. But the true standout of the meal was the roasted potatoes topped with green chutney, yogurt, and crunchy bits. They were absolutely incredible. Everyone at our table — from 4 years old to 45 — went back for seconds. That dish alone is worth the visit!
I also loved trying authentic Indian chai tea, which felt like such a special touch and added to the immersive experience. We ended the meal with gulab jamun (India’s version of a donut soaked in sweet syrup), and it was the perfect indulgent finale.
From a convenience standpoint, there is paid parking right outside the restaurant, which made access easy and stress-free. We visited on a weekday at lunch and only waited about 10 minutes — very reasonable for such a popular Asheville restaurant.
The atmosphere at Chai Pani is absolutely top notch. The decor, branding, and overall vibe are beautifully executed and create a fun, vibrant environment that enhances the entire dining experience.
If you’re searching for the best Indian restaurant in Asheville, authentic Indian street food, or a unique downtown Asheville dining experience, Chai Pani should be at the top of your list. We will absolutely be back!
Melissa
The food and atmosphere are EXTREMELY top notch. Zero complaints. The decor is vibrant, eye catching, and beautifully done. We went in for their lunch buffet and we nearly ate ourselves sick. We tried a little of every single item they served and every single item was perfection. The carrot cake was my favorite thing. Considering the quality of food and plethora of options, the lunch buffet is an incredible value! We also ordered a couple of drinks (iced Chai and a housemade soda), which were also delicious!
There were a couple of not so pleasant staff (hostess and server) who dimmed our visit a little bit, however, the gentleman working in the kitchen and the lady working the buffet table were very friendly. Overall, we had a great experience and can’t wait to get the buffet again before they discontinue it.
… moreThere were a couple of not so pleasant staff (hostess and server) who dimmed our visit a little bit, however, the gentleman working in the kitchen and the lady working the buffet table were very friendly. Overall, we had a great experience and can’t wait to get the buffet again before they discontinue it.
Matthew Shaffer
This place was AMAZING! The ambiance and atmosphere was really festive and fit the overall vibe of the food. We got cardamom old fashions to start, which were unique and delicious. Definitely more depth of flavor than a regular old fashioned. We started with Bhel Puri and okra fries. The Bhel Puri was truly unique, unlike other street foods I’ve tried. The okra fries, though, were incredible. Crisp, flavorful, and really unique. After that, we shared the butter chicken thali and beef bihari kebab. Both were excellent, but the kebab stole the show. Great charred flavor, savory spices, and just the right portion. All the while the waitstaff was friendly, helpful, and attentive. Wouldn’t change a thing!
Ratings (one of five *)
Taste: *****
Creativity: *****
Atmosphere: *****
Service: *****
Value: *****
… moreRatings (one of five *)
Taste: *****
Creativity: *****
Atmosphere: *****
Service: *****
Value: *****
David
Absolutely incredible and tasty! Each mouthful is a flavor bomb. I’ve had several different dishes and you can’t go wrong here! I highly recommend the SPDP as an appetizer! You won’t regret this absolutely delightful dish that makes you want to come back again! The ambiance is warm , inviting and keeps your eyes engaged in wanting to look around and talk about it with your crew. The staff are attentive and friendly. I’ll keep coming back here over and over.
… moreKevin Lee
This is the best Indian food I’ve ever had. I’ve never knew much about Indian food, but this restaurant definitely taught me a thing or two about it!
Im a huge meat eater, but you could do an entirely vegetarian meal here and be satisfied. Lots of fresh, bold flavors whether you go meat or vegetarian.
Show up early because there will be a line but its worth it!
… moreIm a huge meat eater, but you could do an entirely vegetarian meal here and be satisfied. Lots of fresh, bold flavors whether you go meat or vegetarian.
Show up early because there will be a line but its worth it!
Sampada Chavan
Absolutely enjoyed the food, service, and ambiance here. If you are in Asheville, do not miss this place! The chaat was really good. 5 stars for the vada pav, fried okra, and spdp. The drinks here are really good too. The staff is friendly and welcoming. The music is upbeat and the vibe is pretty good. Do not miss! No complaints.
… moreElizabeth Asher
Chai Pani, in my humble opinion, is the pinnacle of dining in Asheville. And this is saying a lot because there are so many award winning restaurants in this foodie Mecca. Chai Pani has everything: excellent service, a vibrant and welcoming environment, and consistent delicious food. This is our go-to place when company comes to visit and it is always a hit! Everyone always leaves very happy…and very full! If you live here and haven’t been yet, you have to go! And if you’re visiting and looking for the best place to eat in the city, just stop your search now.
… moreVivek Narayan
Great meal in a vibrant setting, without the “ugh” factor that often comes with buffet dining. Even on a weekday there was a wait, likely because the buffet is offered for a limited time. While the selection isn’t extensive, every item was fresh and delicious. They’ve also put a thoughtful system in place to reduce the food waste typically associated with buffets. The space works equally well for solo diners and larger groups.
… moreCam King
Where do I begin?! Eating here was not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate…beautiful & delicious! Everything came to the table hot & fresh. Our server couldn’t have been sweeter & very helpful with suggestions. I highly recommend the matchstick okra fries, chili chicken, saag paneer & carrot cake. The mango lassi, tamarind cola & some clarity were all very tasty. The portions were generous & the prices were about average. They are known for their butter chicken, so I’m dying to go back & try that, along with the tandoori. Get there right when they open at 5:00 & you won’t have to wait long for a seat.
… moreRahul Anand
We had a wonderful dining experience here! The food and ambience were top-notch, making it worth the visit. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait. The Vada Pav and Sabudana Vada Tots were absolutely mouthwatering, and the Bhel Puri was equally delicious. You can get the paid parking just in front of the restaurant.
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