Chai Pani to Feed DC Next Spring

An Award-winning Indian restaurant with Asheville roots will be blooming into DC next year. Chai Pani, which won the James Beard award for Outstanding Restaurant, is opening a new location in the Union Market district, reports Eater Washington D.C.

The concept, conceived of by celebrated restaurateur Meherwan Irani, will be moving into 1325 5th Street, NE, as a part of the Gables Union Market apartment complex. The restaurant is hoping to open in spring of 2025.

Chai Pani focuses on crafting authentic Indian cuisine. The website describes the eatery’s mission statement as: “Mindblasting Indian street food. No shortcuts, no compromises, no funny business. Pretty much everything is made from scratch, by hand, the old-fashioned way.Our mission is to serve awesome, affordable food that’s made with love and care.“

The DC location will be Chai Pani’s third home. The concept also has restaurants in Asheville, Virginia, and Decatur, Georgia.