Charlotte’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, and when it comes to Indian cuisine, discerning food lovers are always on the lookout for the best. If you’re searching for an authentic and delightful Indian food experience in Charlotte, look no further than Chaupaati. This casual cafe, drawing inspiration from the bustling street food culture of Mumbai’s famous Chaupaati beach, offers a menu brimming with flavorful dishes that go beyond the usual Indian restaurant fare.
My first encounter with Chaupaati was unexpectedly at a Thanksgiving office potluck. Amidst the traditional turkey and stuffing, a spread of Indian dishes stole the show, vanishing quickly and leaving everyone craving more. These weren’t just any catered dishes; they were from Chaupaati. Located conveniently at the intersection of Pineville-Matthews Road and 485, Chaupaati proved to be a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It took me longer than it should have to visit the restaurant, but once I did, I understood the buzz.
Chaupaati’s menu is thoughtfully divided, with the “Chaat” section dedicated to snacks, mirroring the street food vendors of Mumbai. While you’ll find familiar favorites like samosas and dosas, the menu also features unique items like dabeli. This savory potato patty, nestled in a bun and topped with spicy peanuts, grapes, and crunchy sev noodles, is an explosion of textures and tastes.
The dabeli, a stuffed potato sandwich from Chaupaati.
On a chilly, rainy day, the dabeli paired with tomato coconut soup was the perfect comfort. The dabeli itself is crave-worthy, the kind of snack you dream about late at night. During that same visit, the baingan bharta was a must-repeat order. This smoky, tomato-infused eggplant dish, reminiscent of baba ganoush, is best enjoyed scooped up with warm naan. Speaking of naan, Chaupaati offers butter, garlic, and bullet naan. While all are wonderfully crispy and chewy from the tandoor oven, the bullet naan is exceptional, spiked with fresh green chilies for those who love a spicy kick.
We also sampled the saag paneer, a classic combination of fresh cheese and spinach, and the Goan curry. This rich and creamy curry, made with coconut milk and aromatic spices, can be customized with goat, lamb, or prawn. Each dish at Chaupaati showcases a blend of home-style cooking and culinary expertise.
Top right: saag paneer. Middle left: tomato coconut soup. Middle right: raita. Bottom left: baingan bharta.
The team behind Chaupaati is a mix of home cooks and trained chefs, led by Ram Bhatarrai, the tandoor master. This duality is reflected throughout Chaupaati. The décor is simple yet inviting, with cheerful colors evoking the spirit of Chaupaati beach. Service is attentive and personalized, even down to asking your preference for water temperature. Despite its casual atmosphere, Chaupaati embraces technology with a digital menu on flat screens, iPad ordering, and delivery via Doorstep app. This modern approach likely stems from owners Prab Dahal and Sameer Patel, both Wake Forest MBA graduates.
Leaving Chaupaati, I was already planning my next visit and the dishes I wanted to try: Indo-Chinese hakka noodles, Manchurian cauliflower, masala dosa, and perhaps the goat curry again. For anyone seeking the Best Indian Food Charlotte has to offer, Chaupaati delivers an authentic, flavorful, and satisfying experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Chaupaati
Open for lunch and dinner every day except Tuesday.
980-498-1555
9101-I Pineville Matthews Rd., Pineville, NC 28134
