Dhamaka Reservations

About the restaurant

Dhamaka, located in New York City’s vibrant Lower East Side, is a bold and unapologetically authentic Indian restaurant that has quickly made waves with its daring approach to regional Indian cuisine. Helmed by Chef Chintan Pandya and restaurateur Roni Mazumdar, the powerhouse team behind Adda and Rahi, Dhamaka offers a menu that dives deep into the lesser-known, rustic dishes of India, many of which are rarely seen in mainstream Indian restaurants. The vibrant, bustling atmosphere—with colorful murals, open kitchen views, and a lively soundtrack—sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience that’s as energetic as the food.

Dhamaka’s menu showcases the robust, unapologetic flavors of rural India, focusing on dishes that are rooted in tradition yet presented with a modern flair. Highlights include the Champaran Meat, a slow-cooked mutton stew infused with whole spices and garlic, served in a sealed clay pot for a dramatic tableside reveal. The Bharela Marcha, a spicy green chili stuffed with peanuts and spices, delivers a fiery kick that’s not for the faint-hearted. The signature Goat Neck Biryani, served in a sealed pot and bursting with fragrant spices and tender meat, is a showstopper that pays homage to the age-old cooking techniques of Indian kitchens.

Dhamaka also offers a selection of skewers and kebabs grilled over open flames, such as the Doh Khleh, a zesty pork salad with a spicy, tangy kick, and the Murgh Kofta, chicken meatballs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce. The kitchen’s dedication to bold, robust flavors shines through in every dish, making each bite a journey through India’s diverse culinary landscape.

To complement the intense flavors of the food, Dhamaka offers a beverage program that includes inventive cocktails with Indian twists, like the “Saffron Negroni” and the “Aam Papad Margarita,” alongside a curated selection of wines and craft beers that pair beautifully with the spiced-forward menu. The restaurant’s energetic bar scene adds to the lively, convivial vibe, making it a perfect spot for both a casual meal and a spirited night out.

Service at Dhamaka is attentive and personable, with a staff that is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic about guiding guests through the unique and often surprising menu. Their expertise adds an extra layer to the dining experience, helping diners navigate the bold flavors and explore new dishes with confidence.

Dhamaka lives up to its name, which means “explosion” in Hindi, offering a dining experience that is intense, exciting, and wholly unique. It’s a celebration of India’s vibrant culinary heritage, delivering powerful flavors that will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to score a seat at this standout NYC hotspot.

Reviews (0)