Adda, a contemporary Indian canteen, is a hidden gem located on Thomson Avenue in Long Island City, far from the bustling city of New York. Despite the location, Adda has become one of the most exciting new restaurants in the city, attracting food enthusiasts from all corners.
The word “Adda” means “a place where people hang out,” and the restaurant lives up to its name by providing a relaxed and leisurely dining experience. The restaurant’s deliberate pacing and the staff’s attention towards their customers make Adda stand out from other restaurants in the city. The prices at Adda are very reasonable, and customers can try a variety of dishes without having to worry about breaking their bank.
The restaurant has a seating capacity of 40, with a raised communal six-top near the window, a row of tables on one side of the long room, a “chef’s counter” type of situation in the back, and a small nook behind the host’s stand. Although there’s not much going on in terms of design, the atmosphere at Adda is perfect for diners who appreciate quality food and great company.
Chef Chintan Pandya, who has worked at the Michelin-starred restaurant Junoon in the Flatiron district, has partnered with Roni Mazumdar, the owner of Adda, to bring authentic Indian cuisine to the restaurant. Chef Pandya’s exceptional cooking skills have elevated the food at Adda to new heights, making it a must-visit spot for those looking for a unique dining experience.
One of the must-try dishes at Adda is the Tandoori Poussin. The juicy meat of the clay-oven grilled chicken is smothered in an outrageously flavorful and fiery bird chili and vinegar sauce, making it a total messy joy to consume. The Tandoori Gobi, which features cauliflower and amul cheese, has a Buffalo wing vibe, but with a fiery twist that is utterly delicious. The Lamb Seekh Kebab, two tubes of heavily seasoned ground leg meat with a lively green chili dipping sauce, is another must-try dish.
The Halka Phulka section of the menu offers a variety of dishes, but the Dilli Pakodi Chaat, a plate of four hollow lentil fritters with a few chickpeas and a lot of chutney lurking inside, is a standout.
Adda has a range of entree-sized Curries and Biryani, and none of them cost more than $17, making them a great value for money. The Junglee Maas, a goat curry with impossibly tender and wonderfully funky meat, and plenty of heat, is highly recommended. The Seasonal Saag Paneer, a pile of creamy greens packed with chunks of soft, tangy cheese, is another standout dish. Both of the above dishes come with a heap of chewy Basmati Rice, but it’s recommended to order a serving of the crisp, flaky Butter Naan to help soak up every bit of the dish.
Although Adda doesn’t have a beer license yet, they have a refreshing Mango Lassi that serves well as an occasional palate cleanser as you gleefully plow through your feast.
Adda is a hidden gem that is well worth the visit for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, combined with Chef Chintan Pandya’s exceptional cooking skills, makes it a must-visit spot for those looking for a unique dining experience. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, allowing diners to try a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
Our Verdict:
Adda is a great restaurant for anyone looking for an authentic Indian dining experience. The restaurant’s emphasis on quality food and great company, combined with its reasonable prices, make it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts in New York City. If you’re craving Indian food, head over to Adda and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.