TLDR
A go-to for cheap, delicious Indian street food & rolls, esp. late-night [16], [17]. Nizami rolls are a must-try [12].
Details
This casual Indian street food joint on MacDougal Street is a go-to for late-night cravings and quick bites [16], [17]. It's particularly noted for its variety of rolls, with the Nizami rolls being a crowd favorite and highly recommended after a night out [12]. While many praise its affordability and flavorful options, some have found certain dishes, like the Kathi roll, to be less authentic [27].
Food Overview
Thelewala is celebrated for its Indian street food, particularly its rolls, with Nizami rolls and the Kathi roll being frequently mentioned [12], [27]. The Phaal sauce is noted for its extreme spiciness, with the Chicken Phall roll being a standout very spicy option [4], [5], [10]. While many enjoy the flavorful and cheap options, some diners have expressed that the Kathi roll may not be authentically prepared [27].
Caveats
One user found the Kathi roll to be not authentic, although they were open to trying other dishes [27].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About THELEWALA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: What Is The Best Nyc Food After A Night Of
"Chapli kabab roll from Thelewala is mentioned as a late-night food option."
PositiveFrom post: Kolkatastyle Indian Food In Nyc
"This user agrees that Thelewala is average and suggests Korai Kitchen as an alternative."
NeutralFrom post: Kolkatastyle Indian Food In Nyc
"The user tried Thelewala but found the Kathi roll, a Kolkata specialty, to not be authentic. They are open to the possibility that other dishes might be better."
NegativeFrom post: Kolkatastyle Indian Food In Nyc
"This user highly recommends Thelewala, particularly for its phaal sauce."
PositiveFrom post: Kolkatastyle Indian Food In Nyc
"Thelewala is mentioned as a street food style option in Midtown."
NeutralFrom post: Spiciest Vegetarian Dishes In Nyc
"This commenter recommends getting the Phall sauce at Thelewala, as it can be added to any roll. They specifically mention the Chicken Phall roll as the spiciest thing they have ever eaten."
PositiveFrom post: Favorite Kati Roll In Nynj Area
"Thelewala on MacDougal Street is recommended as a fantastic option."
PositiveFrom post: Vegetarian Friendly Spots In Hudson Squarewest
"Thelewala is mentioned as a good fast-casual Indian choice for vegetarians, fitting into a preferred category over some local fine dining Indian options."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Indian Food Recs In Manhattan Lower
"Thelewala is listed as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Fast Lunch In Greenwich Village
"Thelewala was included in a list of recommendations for fast lunch options in Greenwich Village."
PositiveFrom post: Good Food After Midnight Chelseanohosohovillage
"Thelewala is mentioned as a late-night dining option."
PositiveFrom post: Good Food After Midnight Chelseanohosohovillage
"Thelewala is suggested for Indian street food, implying it is open late."
PositiveFrom post: Good Food After Midnight Chelseanohosohovillage
"Thelewala on Macdougal Street is mentioned as an Indian food option that is open late."
PositiveFrom post: An Indian Food Crawlwhats On Your List
"The commenter suggests starting an Indian food crawl in the Village at Thelewala for their rolls."
PositiveFrom post: An Indian Food Crawlwhats On Your List
"This place is highly praised for its delicious and cheap Nizami rolls, especially recommended after a night out."
PositiveFrom post: Desi Shack Replacement
"Thelewala was mentioned as a possible alternative to Desi Shack by a commenter."
NeutralFrom post: Any Really Spicy Food In New York
"The original poster tried the Chicken Phall roll at Thelewala and found it hot, but comparable in heat to other places they've tried, still looking for something hotter."
NeutralFrom post: Any Really Spicy Food In New York
"The Chicken Phall roll at Thelewala on MacDougal St is recommended as being very spicy, to the point of making the commenter cry."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Spiciest God Damn Dish In Nyc Make Me
"The Phall roll at Thelewala was extremely spicy, causing immediate hiccups and lingering physical effects."
NegativeFrom post: Whats The Spiciest God Damn Dish In Nyc Make Me
"A "spicy roll" at Thale Wala on McDougal Street was recommended as a very spicy option."
Positive