Chaat Cafe
San Francisco, CA 94107
Phone: (415) 979-9946
- Cross Street:
- Folsom Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Vegetarian Food 2007, Indian Food 2005
- Hours:
- Daily 11:30am-10pm
Editorial Review for Chaat Cafe – by Scott Hocker
The Scene
Everything is oversized at this popular Indian eatery, from the monstrous revolving door to the mile-long open kitchen. Service vacillates between charming and perfunctory--fitting for a joint where diners take a numbered placard and choose their own tables. Service can be lacking, but again, a do-it-yourself atmosphere pervades.
The Food
Wraps stuffed with lamb kebab and tandoori chicken might be this beloved mini-chain's claim to fame, but those in-the-know run straight for the snacky bits called chaat. Chickpeas and potatoes form the backbone of these savories--spoon them into the some-assembly-required pani puri; they're doctored with yogurt and cayenne in the papri chaat. Charred naan (try the cauliflower or onion renditions) is ideal for mopping up tangy, rich chicken tikka masala, thick dal and baigan bhartha, a smoky-hot eggplant puree. Kheer, spiced rice pudding, goes well with a hot cup of masala chai to finish off the meal.
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Insider Tips
ParkingFree two-hour parking is offered with validation.
Save MoneyEach day of the week offers a vegetarian and non-vegetarian special that are a few bucks cheaper before 4pm.
User Reviews for Chaat Cafe
08/03/2006 Posted by nlim
They have increased their prices over the last few months so the value for money is not as high. The tandoori chicken wraps are very good sized, and the chicken tikka masala is my favorite. They marinade and broil the chicken bits before cooking it with the sauce so the chicken is flavorsome but still retains the tenderness. The portions tend to be single-serve so this is not really the place to order family style. It is a also great regular for tasty Indian food that isn't too greasy!
Pros: Tasty Indian food at reasonable price
Cons: Avoid the long lunch queues by going before 12pm or after 2pm
07/02/2006 Posted by rocamewl
The food here is great. Pretty much everything we've ever had here has been fantastic. My favorite is the samosa chaat and cholay bhaturay. Mm mm.... The service often leaves much to be desired. May have something to do with the fact that it used to be a self-serve style restaurant that's having to adjust to doing the whole wait staff thing. It's a bit of an adjustment for them, but their occasional fumbling is well worth the trouble for excellent food.
Pros: authentic indian food, generous portions
Cons: service
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