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Chapter I: Curry Hill - New York symbolizes the melting pot of the world and India is well represented in this mix. The New York area has several small South Asian shopping meccas that allow you to experience the markets, the food and the ambiance without having to travel too far.
CitySaheli’s first stop is Curry Hill. Who says you can’t get a taste of India without actually going there?
The Insider’s Guide to Curry Hill
Appropriately named “Curry Hill” for its many restaurants and spice shops, this district found on Lexington Avenue, between 26th street and 29th street, is lined with various eateries, grocery stores and specialty boutiques. You’ll likely find many starved Indian cabbies stopped here to replenish and the smells will bring you back to the streets of Delhi or Mumbai.
Eat.
Curry Hill has a mélange of different South Asian cuisines. Whether you are in the mood for a quick bite like a khati roll or traditional South Indian cooking, Curry Hill will not disappoint!
Dhaba: Recently opened, Dhaba serves delectable North Indian cuisine and already has a loyal customer base. This place provides an ambience that’s new and refreshing for Curry Hill. CitySaheli ♥s the kebabs and pav bhaji here. Dhaba will surely satisfy the carnivores and omnivores out there!
Chinese Mirch: Serving food unlike anything other spot in NY, stop here for truly unique Indian Chinese fusion dishes. Don’t miss the Chinese chicken lollipops or the crunchy bindi for something tasty and unique.
Dosas, Dosas, Dosas: A favorite South Indian delight, dosas can be found in the many South Indian Curry Hill spots. CitySaheli’s picks: Saravana Bhavan (it’s a chain in Europe!), Madras Mahal and Pongal. For more information, read CitySaheli’s article on Dynamic Dosas in NYC.
Buy.
Sometimes you just need that Fair and Lovely cream your mom got you hooked on. Curry Hill’s many mini markets are fully stocked with Indian products, food, magazines, newspapers and more.
Little India Stores: Stroll over to Little India Stores to stock up on frozen parathas (Indian flatbread), unique masalas and low fat paneer. This grocery market has everything neatly organized and very friendly staff, making it very easy to find what you are looking for.
Kalyustyan’s: Need some kick in your cuisine? Kalyustyan’s is a spice store dating back to1944. Known for its wide array of spices, Kalustyan’s not only has South Asian spices but also carries Middle Eastern and Turkish seasonings. The shop offers friendly service and you will not be disappointed by the selection available.
Butala Emporium: Make sure to stop here if you’re looking for deities for your temple at home, religious books to read to your children or pieces of furniture from India to decorate your home with. Also available is everything you would need for a religious ceremony at home.
Entertain.
Sangeet House: Any Hindi movie fans? Hate waiting to get your order from Netflix? Rent or buy DVDs and video cassettes at Sangeet House located at 124 Lexington Avenue. You can also find a wide array of music CDs and tapes for those interested in South Asian music.
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