Every visit to Apni Mandi, my go-to South Asian grocery store, always comes with an exciting culinary side trip. Just across the street, the unmistakable crowd gathered around is a sure sign of Chandni Chowk, a vibrant food truck serving up authentic South Asian cuisine. This isn’t just any food truck; it’s a destination for anyone seeking genuine Indian flavors in a casual, street-food setting. If you’re on the hunt for Indian Food Trucks Near Me, this spot, co-located with another equally enticing Indian-Asian food truck, is a must-visit. Together, they infuse the air with aromas reminiscent of bustling Mumbai streets, offering an immersive experience into South Asian culture and food.
Finding parking can be a bit of an adventure, often requiring a short walk from the Apni Mandi parking lot. However, this small detour is well worth it, especially if you’re planning to stock up on groceries afterward. The short stroll only builds anticipation for the flavors that await.
Seeking recommendations from seasoned Indian food enthusiasts—my parents and other friends familiar with the truck—I decided on a trio of dishes: the live Pani Puri with all five flavor variations, the Dahi Puri Chaat, and the Chole Kulcha. It’s worth noting upfront that Chandni Chowk positions itself at a slightly higher price point compared to some other Indian food stalls. The Pani Puri was priced at $8.99, the Dahi Puri Chaat at $9.99, and the Chole Kulcha at $12.99. While it might seem a bit steep for food truck fare, the quality and taste, for some dishes, certainly justify the cost.
Alt text: Close-up of vibrant Pani Puri with various flavored waters, a popular Indian street food offered at Chandni Chowk food truck.
My visit was around 7 p.m., undoubtedly peak hours for this popular food truck. There was a slight delay in getting my order ready – a touch of “Indian Standard Time,” perhaps – but considering the long queue of eager customers, it was understandable. The waiting area outside the truck is quite lively, filled with the chatter of South Asian families, adding to the authentic street food vibe. If you’re planning a visit on a sunny afternoon, be mindful that shade is limited.
Approximately twenty minutes after ordering, my food was ready, and I wasted no time diving in, starting with the Pani Puri. This iconic Indian street food consists of crispy, hollow puris filled with potatoes and spices, and then generously filled with flavored water (pani) just before you eat it in one satisfying bite. Among the five flavors offered, the Mint Pani Puri was the clear standout. While the Pineapple and Pomegranate flavors might appeal to adventurous first-timers, the Mint flavor is a timeless classic. It delivered the perfect balance of tangy pani and crunchy puri, instantly transporting me back to the Pani Puri stalls of India. As a whole, the Pani Puri experience gets a 7/10, but the Mint flavor alone deserves a solid 9/10 – a true taste of Indian street food perfection.
Alt text: Delicious Dahi Puri Chaat, showcasing yogurt, sev, and chutneys, a cooling and flavorful Indian snack available at the food truck.
Next up was the Dahi Puri Chaat, a dish I thoroughly enjoyed. The cool, creamy dahi (yogurt) beautifully counteracted the spices, creating a refreshing and balanced flavor profile. Dahi Puri is another beloved street food from Mumbai, my hometown, and this rendition genuinely evoked those nostalgic flavors. It earns an 8/10. While not the absolute best Dahi Puri Chaat I’ve ever had, it’s a solid choice, though perhaps not the most economical given the pricing.
However, when it comes to dishes truly worth the splurge, the Chole Kulcha at Chandni Chowk is a definite winner. My mom’s strong recommendation, combined with seeing it on almost every other customer’s order, sealed the deal for me. For those unfamiliar, Chole Kulcha is essentially soft, fluffy naan bread served with a side of flavorful chickpea curry (chole). Initially, the chole appeared a bit oily, but after draining off the excess oil, it was absolutely divine with the naan. The spice-infused chole and the comforting naan create a harmonious combination that is undeniably worth the price. This was the highlight of my meal, earning a 9.5/10 – only losing half a point due to the initial oiliness.
Alt text: Appetizing Chole Kulcha, featuring chickpea curry and naan bread, a hearty and flavorful Indian meal offered by Chandni Chowk food truck.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Apni Mandi or find yourself near the South-Asian hub across from Safeway, make sure to stop by Chandni Chowk and the other indian food trucks near me in the vicinity. It’s more than just a quick bite; it’s a flavorful journey to the streets of India, right in your neighborhood. You won’t be disappointed.
