Chai Pani’s Union Market Arrival: A New Era for DC Indian Dining
Washington, DC’s Union Market District has a new culinary star: Chai Pani. This James Beard Award-winning restaurant, celebrated for its “mindblasting” Indian street food, has opened its doors in the capital, joining successful locations in Asheville, NC, and Decatur, GA.
Founded by Chef Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani, Chai Pani’s concept is rooted in the everyday food of India. This authentic approach has earned them widespread acclaim, including a spot on The New York Times’ list of “America’s Favorite Restaurants” and the 2022 James Beard Award for “Outstanding Restaurant.”
Designed to evoke a bustling Mumbai street festival, the space is a sensory explosion of bright colors and hand-painted murals, reflecting the culture of the cuisine.