Unapologetic Indian cuisine featuring the "forgotten side of India." Adventurous dishes, standout paneer & biryani. A vibrant, must-try spot.
Amber Sutherland-Namako reviews Dhamaka, an "unapologetic Indian" restaurant in Essex Market, highlighting its unique dishes and exciting atmosphere.
infatuation reviews Dhamaka, a Lower East Side gem serving the "forgotten side of India" with standout dishes like housemade paneer and Nalli Biryani.
This Indian restaurant is celebrated for its "unapologetic" approach, offering a taste of the "forgotten side of India." With a vibrant atmosphere and unique, adventurous dishes, it's a standout in the Lower East Side culinary scene. From its praised housemade paneer to the visually impressive Nalli Biryani with tableside lamb shank, this establishment provides an immersive and memorable dining experience.
The restaurant offers a unique take on Indian cuisine, focusing on lesser-known regional dishes often referred to as the 'forgotten side of India.' Standout items include the Nalli Biryani with lamb shank, housemade paneer, and adventurous options like goat kidney and testicles. While many rave about the bold flavors and authentic taste, a recurring comment is the intense spiciness, with some finding it too salty or greasy.
"Highly recommended dishes include the Nalli Biryani with lamb shank, housemade paneer, Paneer Methi, Beef Pepper Fry, crab garlic butter rice, and Champaran Meat. The biryani is noted for its large portion size, often suitable for sharing."
Customers generally have a very positive sentiment towards the restaurant, frequently praising its unique and authentic flavors, particularly dishes like biryani and paneer. However, some diners note that the food can be excessively spicy, and a few have found it to be overly salty or greasy.
Important Note
Some diners find the restaurant to be excessively spicy, and a few have noted that dishes can be overly salty or greasy. Reservations can be difficult to obtain, and the location within Essex Market might not appeal to everyone seeking a formal ambiance.
"This user mentioned Dhamaka as being easier to get into and still their favorite Indian spot in the city."
Positive"This user lists Dhamaka as a high-quality option for dining out, implicitly contrasting it with delivery options like Taco Mahal."
Positive"I liked Dhamaka, but I wouldn't fight for a reservation."
Positive"There are some good places at Essex Market, including Dhamaka. I don't view it as a must-visit, but it's a good stopover if you're in the area."
Positive"I really enjoyed Dhamaka during a recent stay in the neighborhood."
Positive"Dhamaka is amazing."
Positive"This user found the gurda kapoora (goat offal) at Dhamaka to be solid, noting it's on the more expensive side."
Positive"This user noted that Dhamaka will seasonally have Makkai ki Roti, as part of a discussion about the limited options for exceptional South Asian breads in New York."
Neutral"This commenter agreed with the recommendation for Dhamaka, suggesting it's the closest to Pakistani food due to its yogurt-based curries and goat options. They advised against Gupshup."
Positive"The commenter enjoyed Dhamaka, particularly mentioning their lamb shank nihari as phenomenal. They were unsure if it was still on the menu or considered 'high end'."
Positive"The author suggests that Ishq should be skipped and that Dhamaka would be a good choice."
Positive"The author states that Dhamaka serves some of the best paneer they have ever had."
Positive"A user agrees with the recommendation for Dhamaka."
Positive"Dhamaka is mentioned as an upscale Indian place in the East Village that requires reservations."
Neutral"Dhamaka in the East Village is described as unbelievably good."
Positive"Dhamaka is recommended as an excellent, though not cheap, option."
Positive"Dhamaka is mentioned for not serving roti with appetizers, stating it could only be ordered with main courses, which was inconvenient for the user's preference."
Negative"In response to a query about Dhamaka's Sunday availability, the list creator advised checking the restaurant's website directly, noting that Restaurant Week profiles might not always be up-to-date."
Neutral"The commenter noted that Dhamaka's $60 dinner menu was not available on Sundays, based on their Instagram, and sought confirmation due to conflicting information."
Neutral"The commenter suggests Dhamaka and proposes ordering the lamb feast for a group of three, supplemented by a couple of appetizers."
Neutral
