Taste of India II brought a new wave of flavor and spice to Staten Island. Introducing the landmark of South Asian cuisine to the borough in 19901, Taste of India serves Indian food that is not just accessible; it is every last bit authentic. Amongst the diversity of New Dorp Lane, it has undoubtedly stood out for over three and a half decades as the island’s first, and arguably best, Indian restaurant.
Although the rest of New York was no stranger to Indian cuisine, there was a noticeable lack of diversity in the food culture of Staten Island leading into the 90s. When Taste of India first opened, owners Raman Kumar and Baldev Malhotra had to be creative in marketing something in a place where it had no demand.
Food was not the only thing that Taste of India brought to Staten Island. As owner Kumar put it, “we created an experience.”2 The restaurant itself is clad in traditional decorations, from intricate figures to vibrant patterns on the wall, and a distinct atmosphere that feels like stepping into another part of the world.
Upon sitting down, pappadam (thin, cracker-like bread) is provided for the table along with three sauces: a refreshing cilantro-mint sauce, a tangy tomato chutney, and a sweet tamarind sauce. And to order, one may start with a wide assortment of flatbreads, including flaky, buttery paratha. The menu has a strong focus on meats and vegetables. As for entrees, the biryani is an ever-so-popular choice; it is a blend of rice, marinated meats, and vegetables. Other options include curry, chicken tikka masala, and chicken vindaloo. And for dessert, dishes such as Kulfi (ice cream) and Kheer (rice pudding) are, “a nice way to end a meal,”3 as Kumar said.
Taste of India II is more than a restaurant; it is an experience. From the atmosphere and smell to the food itself, it is easy to get submerged and lost in a culture originating so far from Staten Island. Especially for those who have never had Indian food or been exposed to Indian culture, I would highly recommend getting a taste of India.
Have a taste of India—the country behind Staten Island’s first Indian restaurant.
Campus: College of Staten Island
Professor: Jane Marcus-Delgado
Location: 287 New Dorp Ln, Staten Island, NY 10306
References:
[[1. “Taste of India II.” Taste of India II. https://www.tasteofindia2.com/.]]
[[2 & 3. “International Flavor.” Industry Magazine. https://industrym.com/international-flavor/.]]
- “Taste of India II.” Taste of India II. https://www.tasteofindia2.com/. ↩︎
- “International Flavor.” Industry Magazine. https://industrym.com/international-flavor/. ↩︎
- “International Flavor.” Industry Magazine. https://industrym.com/international-flavor/. ↩︎
