Alachi Masala Introduce
On a bustling stretch of Amsterdam Avenue, nestled within the vibrant Upper West Side, lies a culinary treasure that transports diners directly to the heart of South Asia: Alachi Masala. This authentic Indian restaurant is a beloved local gem, celebrated not only for its rich, flavorful dishes but also for its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Alachi Masala stands out as a purveyor of true Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani cuisine, offering a menu that is both extensive and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s a place where the aromas of spices and herbs fill the air, creating an immersive dining experience that feels both exotic and familiar.
More than just a restaurant, Alachi Masala is a destination for those seeking a quiet, cozy, and delicious meal. It's a favorite among locals for its consistency and quality, making it a perfect spot for everything from a solo lunch to a relaxed dinner with friends. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients is evident in every dish, from the rich curries to the freshly baked breads. For those in New York City searching for a taste of genuine South Asian cooking, Alachi Masala offers an experience that is a true escape from the city’s usual hustle and bustle. Its reputation for providing a peaceful and satisfying meal is a key reason it's considered a hidden gem by those who frequent it.
Finding this culinary haven is straightforward for anyone in the New York area. Alachi Masala is conveniently located at 488 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, placing it firmly within the lively and accessible Upper West Side neighborhood. The area is well-served by public transportation, making it an easy destination regardless of where you are in the city. Nearby subway stations provide a quick and efficient way to reach the restaurant. For those who prefer to drive, street parking can be an option, though, as with much of New York City, it is often a challenge to find. The restaurant’s position on a prominent avenue ensures it's easy to spot, and its welcoming facade invites you in from the moment you arrive. The central location also makes it a great spot to grab a meal before or after visiting other attractions in the area, offering a quiet respite from a day of exploration.
Alachi Masala provides a wide range of services to accommodate every diner’s needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful sit-down meal or the convenience of dining at home, they have an option for you. The following services are available:
- Outdoor seating: Enjoy your meal in the fresh air with a few tables available outside. Dogs are also allowed in this area.
- Curbside pickup: A convenient option for a quick and easy takeaway experience.
- No-contact delivery: For those who prefer a safe and seamless delivery directly to their door.
- Delivery: A standard delivery service to bring the flavors of Alachi Masala right to your home or office.
- Takeout: Place an order and pick it up at your convenience.
- Dine-in: Experience the full, cozy atmosphere of the restaurant with table service.
In addition to these core services, the restaurant offers dining options throughout the day, including brunch, lunch, and dinner. They also provide catering services for special events, bringing their delicious cuisine to larger gatherings. With table service and seating available, the dining experience is always comfortable and attentive. These comprehensive services ensure that Alachi Masala can be a part of your routine, whether for a planned meal or a spontaneous craving.
Alachi Masala is distinguished by several features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for both new and returning customers. These key aspects contribute to its reputation as a true neighborhood favorite:
- Great tea selection: The restaurant is known for its excellent variety of teas, including its special Alachi Masala tea (Chai), which is a perfect complement to any meal.
- Halal and vegetarian options: A significant draw for many diners, the menu features a wide array of halal, vegetarian, and even vegan dishes, ensuring there's something to suit various dietary needs and preferences. The variety of vegetarian specialties, from Daal Saag to Baigan Bhartha, is a standout.
- Cozy and quiet atmosphere: The ambiance is a major highlight. Alachi Masala offers a casual and cozy environment that is perfect for a quiet meal, whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The serene setting provides a peaceful escape from the city’s noise.
- Diverse menu: The food offerings span a wide range of authentic South Asian cuisine, including Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani dishes. From Tandoori Specialties to Seafood Specialties and Meat Delicacies, the menu is rich with options.
- Family-friendly: The restaurant is good for kids, offering high chairs and a dedicated kids' menu, making it a comfortable choice for families dining out.
- Accepts reservations: For those planning a special meal or dining with a group, the option to make a reservation ensures a table will be ready for you.
- Comfort food and small plates: The menu is filled with classic comfort foods and an option for small plates, perfect for sharing and trying a variety of dishes.
These features, from the peaceful atmosphere to the accommodating menu, make Alachi Masala a well-rounded and appealing choice. It's a place that prioritizes a satisfying and comfortable dining experience for all guests, which is why it has earned its reputation as a cherished local spot.
To plan your visit or place an order, here is the essential contact information for Alachi Masala:
Address: 488 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024
Phone: (212) 874-0737
What makes Alachi Masala a particularly worthwhile choice for New Yorkers is its unwavering commitment to authentic flavor and a genuinely personal dining experience. The menu is a testament to this, with a wealth of options that go beyond the typical Indian restaurant fare. Diners can explore classic curries, such as the Lamb Rogan Josh and Chicken Tikka Marsala, alongside unique specialties like the Chicken Morongo and the flavorful Tandoori Lamb Chops. The extensive vegetarian and vegan options, from Chana Masala to Vegetable Tikka Masala, are not just an afterthought but a central part of the menu, providing delicious and healthy choices. The availability of halal food further broadens its appeal to a diverse customer base.
Customer reviews often highlight the restaurant as a "hidden gem" and praise the quality of the food. Visitors from out of town have called it "the best meal we’ve had in NYC so far," a significant compliment in a city with endless dining choices. While some reviews note that service can be slow during peak hours, this is often a sign of a small, dedicated staff working hard to serve every customer. This is a place where the owner may come out to greet you, creating a personal connection that is rare to find. For anyone in New York looking for a quiet, cozy place to enjoy authentic, high-quality Indian, Bangladeshi, or Pakistani food, Alachi Masala is an excellent choice. Its casual atmosphere, delicious offerings, and commitment to a welcoming experience make it a standout destination on the Upper West Side.
Alachi Masala Food & drink
Accompaniments
- Mixed Pickles $4.95
Vegan
- Green Salad $7.95
Vegan. Crisp lettuce with tomatoes and cucumbers
- Mango Chutney $5.95
Vegan
- Raita $5.95
Whipped yogurt with chopped cucumbers, garnished with herbs and mild spices
Shorba
- Nariyal Ka Shorba $7.95
Fresh coconut soup made with honey
- Tomato Soup $7.95
Vegan. Freshly made special tomato soup
- Mulligatawny $7.95
Vegan. Traditional delicately spiced soup with lentils
- Matar Mushroom Ka Shorba $7.95
Peas and mushrooms with lentils
Hot Appetizers
- Assorted Hors D'Oeuvres $12.95
Vegan. Samosa, mixed pakora (fritters)
- Vegetable Pakora Or Onion Bajji $9.95
Vegan. Fried mixed vegetable or Onion fritters
- Chicken Chaat $9.95
Pieces of chicken breast seasoned with garlic and curry leaves
- Lasuni Gobi $9.95
Vegan. Cauliflower seasoned with garlic, curry leaves and an exotic blend of Indian spices
- Lasuni Shrimp $11.95
Baby shrimp seasoned with zesty garlic sauce
- Vegetable Samosa (2 Pieces) $8.95
Vegan. Crispy pastry turnover filled with spiced vegetables
- Jhinga Chatpota $12.95
Spicy, crispy fried shrimp served with hot, sweet & sour sauce
- Crabs Bombay $11.95
Crabs, sautéed with onions and tomatoes flavored with herbs, served with poori
- Chana Bhajee With Poori $11.95
Vegan. Chickpeas cooked in spices, served with poori
- Meat Samosa (2 Pieces) $9.95
Crispy pastry turnover filled with spiced beef or chicken
- Assorted Tandoori Appetizer $13.95
Combination of chicken tikka, seekh kabab, boti kabab, and reshmi kabab
- Chicken Malai Kabab $9.95
Chicken marinated in ginger, garlic, and garam masala
Vegetarian Specialties
- Daal Saag $17.95
Spinach cooked with onions and tomatoes with lentils. Vegan. Served with rice
- Matar Paneer $17.95
green peace with cheese in a rich creamy sauce Served with rice
- Aloo Matar Gobi $18.95
Florets of cauliflower, peas, and potatoes in delicate spices. Vegan. Served with rice
- Yellow Doll Tarka $17.95
Yellow lentils, cooked with onion, garlic, and exotic spicy with tarka and serve with rice
- Malai Kofta $18.95
Mixed vegetable dumplings. Served with rice
- Yellow Dal Tarka $17.95
Yellow lentils cooked with onion, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic, and give the tarka serve with rice
- Daal Makhni $17.95
Mixed lentils and red kidney beans. Vegan. Served with rice
- Chana Saag $17.95
Spinach cooked with chickpeas and exotic spices. Vegan. Served with rice
- Vegetable Jalfrezi $17.95
Stir-fried vegetables cooked in a sweet and sour sauce. Vegan. Served with rice
- Vegetable Tikka Masala $19.95
Mixed vegetables cooked with the chicken salad sauce serve with rice
- Saag Khumb $17.95
Spinach cooked with onions and tomatoes with mushrooms. Vegan. Served with rice
- Saag Aloo $17.95
Spinach cooked with onions and tomatoes with potatoes. Vegan. Served with rice
- Baigan Bhartha $17.95
Eggplant puree cooked with fresh tomatoes, onions, herbs, and spices. Vegan. Served with rice
- Saag Paneer $18.95
Homemade cheese cooked with creamed spinach.
- Aloo Baigan $17.95
Eggplant and potatoes cooked with toasted cumin and exotic spices. Vegan. Served with rice
- Navratan Korma $18.95
Mixed vegetables cooked in cream and sweet spices. Served with rice
- Chana Masala $17.95
Chickpeas cooked with onions, tomatoes and freshly ground spices. Vegan. Served with rice
- Mixed Vegetable Curry $17.95
Fresh vegetables cooked in onion and garlic in a light spicy sauce. Vegan. Served with rice
- Bhindi Masala $17.95
Okra cooked with onions, tomatoes and an exotic blend of Indian spices. Vegan. Served with rice
Tandoori Specialties (Clay Oven)
- Tandoori Vegetable $18.95
Fresh vegetables marinated in Indian spices, sour cream, and white pepper. Served with rice
- Reshmi Kabab $19.95
Boneless pieces of chicken breast marinated in yogurt and spices. Served with rice
- Tandoori Chicken $18.95
Chicken marinated in yogurt and freshly ground spices cooked in a tandoor. (a clay oven on charcoal) Served with rice
- Sheekh Kabab $17.95
Minced meat with onions and herbs roasted on skewers. Served with rice
- Lamb Chops $30.95
Charcoal grilled lamb chops marinated in exotic spices and yogurt. Served with rice
- Chicken Tikka $19.95
Boneless chicken marinated in subtly flavored spices cooked in a tandoor. Served with rice
- Tandoori Shrimp $26.94
Jumbo shrimp marinated and cooked in a tandoor. Served with rice
- Tandoori Machali $26.95
Chunks of salmon marinated in subtly flavored spices and cooked in a tandoor. Served with rice
- Mixed Grill $27.94
One piece each of tandoori chicken, tandoori shrimp, chicken tikka, reshmi kabab, sheekh kabab and boti kabab. Served with rice
- Boti Kabab $23.95
Chunks of lamb marinated in subtly flavored spices and cooked in a tandoor. Served with rice
Chana Chat $7.95
- Daal Papri $8.95
Lentil and flour chips served with chopped cucumbers and potatoes covered with yogurt and sweet and sour sauce
- Bombay Bhel Poori $9.95
Vegan. Rice crispies, peanuts, onion, mango powder, tomato, and cilantro
- Chana Chat $8.95
Vegan. Chickpeas mixed with onions, tomatoes, yogurt, tamarind and mint sauce
- Dahi Battata Poori $9.95
Mini poori stuffed with potatoes and chickpeas, topped with tamarind, yogurt and mint sauce
Roti (Clay Oven Breads)
- Aloo Naan $5.95
Naan stuffed with spice-flavored potatoes.
- Keema Naan $7.95
Naan stuffed with spice-flavored minced meat.
- Bread Basket $14.95
Choice of three breads except for poori.
- Onion Kulcha $5.95
Bread stuffed with sautéed spice-flavored diced onions.
- Paneer Kulcha $6.95
Naan stuffed with homemade cheese.
- Aloo Paratha $5.95
Paratha stuffed with mildly spiced potatoes.
- Garlic Naan $5.95
Naan topped with fresh garlic.
- Naan $4.95
Unleavened bread of superfine flour cooked in a tandoor.
- Paratha $5.95
Multi-layered whole wheat flour bread.
- Poori $6.95
Deep fried puffed whole wheat bread. Vegan.
- Gluten Free Rice Flour Bread $2.00
- Alachi Masala Special Naan $6.95
Naan stuffed with cherries, raisins, and coconut.
- Roti $4.95
Typical Indian bread made from whole wheat flour baked in a charcoal oven. Vegan.
- Chapati $3.95
Thin whole wheat bread. Vegan.
Alachi Masala Specials
- Kid's Special Fish Platter $14.95
Grilled salmon served with potato, rice, and salad.
- Chicken Morongo $18.95
Boneless chicken cooked with exotic Indian spices and creamy mango sauce. Served with rice
- Emlyka Murg $18.95
Boneless chicken cooked in peppercorns, tamarind and garam masala. Served with rice
- Kid's Special Chicken Platter $14.95
Boneless grilled chicken breast served with potato, rice, and salad.
Chicken Specialties
- Chicken Tikka Marsala $19.95
Boneless pieces of tandoori chicken, cooked in a rich tomato sauce and fenugreek leaves. Served with rice
- Chicken Makhani $19.95
Boneless tandoori chicken breast poached in a rich tomato sauce. Served with rice
- Chicken Korma $19.95
Chicken cooked in creamy almond sauce and sweet spices Mughlai fashion. Served with rice
- Chicken Salimar $19.95
Boneless chicken in cilantro, green chili, lemon juice, and exotic spices. Served with rice
- Chicken Shaslic $19.95
Grilled chicken with onion and bell pepper in rich tomato sauce. Served with rice
- Chicken Vindaloo $19.95
Chicken cooked with hot, spicy vinegar mixed sauce and potatoes. Served with rice
- Chicken Madras $19.95
Medium hot chicken cooked with tomatoes, south Indian style. Served with rice
- Chicken Saagwala $19.95
Chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes, and cream of spinach. Served with rice
- Chicken Jalfrezi $19.95
Stir-fried chicken and vegetables cooked in sweet and sour sauce. Served with rice
- Chicken Kali Mirch $19.95
Chicken cooked with exotic spices and black pepper. Served with rice
- Chicken Dhansak $19.95
Chicken cooked with lentils and hot spices, Persian style. Served with rice
- Chicken Malabar $19.95
Boneless piece of chicken cooked, coconut mustard, seeds, curry leaves, and creamy sauce serve with rice
- Chicken Curry $19.95
Boneless chicken cooked with onions and mild spices. Served with rice
- Chicken Xacutti $19.95
Chicken cooked in a mixed sauce of dry spices, curry leaves, mustard seed, and coconut. Served with rice
Rice Specialties
- Peas Pullao $4.95
Long grain basmati rice with saffron and green peas. Vegan.
- Poona Special Kacchi Biryani $22.95
Basmati rice with minced meat, saffron, dried fruits, nuts, and exotic spices garnished with tandoori chicken.
- Shrimp Biryani $22.95
Fresh shrimp sautéed in herbs and spices cooked with basmati rice, dried fruits, and nuts.
- Lemon Rice $6.95
Prepared with roasted mustard seeds, curry leaves, and lemon juice. Vegan.
- Chicken Biryani $21.95
Basmati rice with cubes of chicken cooked with saffron, onions, ginger, garlic, dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices.
- Lamb Biryani $22.95
Basmati rice with cubes of lamb cooked with saffron, onions, ginger, garlic, dried fruits, nuts, herbs, and spices.
- Banarassi Pullao $16.95
Saffron basmati rice cooked with garden fresh vegetables. Vegan.
- Basmati Brown Rice $4.95
Vegan.
Seafood Specialties
- Fish Malabar $23.95
Chunks of salmon simmered in a spicy hot coconut sauce. Served with rice
- Tilapia Dopiaza $22.95
Stir-fried filleted tilapia topped with sauternes onions and exotic spices and herbs. Served with rice
- Sharso Ka Machali $23.95
Fresh fish sautéed with herbs, mustard, and spices, garnished with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. Served with rice
- Shrimp Patia $22.95
Shrimp cooked in a very hot sauce with lentils, Madras style. Served with rice
- Kadai Shrimp $23.95
Shrimp cooked with ground spices, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, and herbs, served in an Indian wok. Served with rice
- Fish Masala $23.95
Filleted fish cooked with rich tomato sauce and fenugreek leaves. Served with rice
- Shrimp Curry $22.95
Shrimp cooked with spice flavored sauce. Served with rice
- Shrimp Sabji $22.95
Fresh shrimp cooked with choice of mushrooms, spinach, or cauliflower in a thick spice flavored sauce. Served with rice
- Shrimp Vindaloo Or Dhansak $22.95
Shrimp cooked in a very hot sauce with potatoes, Madras style. Served with rice
- Bhagari Shrimp $23.95
Jumbo shrimp cooked in a tangy garlic sauce. Served with rice
Indian Desserts
- Suji Ka Halwa $7.95
Roasted suji cooked with sugar and olive oil. Vegan.
- Coconut Samosa (2 Pcs.) $8.95
Crispy pastry turnover filled with sweet coconut. Vegan.
- Gajar Halwa $7.95
Alacha masala's traditional Indian carrot pudding.
- Rasmalai $7.95
Cottage cheese cooked with cream in sweet almond sauce.
- Gulab Jamun $7.95
Fried rounds of cheese dipped in honey sauce.
- Alachi Special Kheer $7.95
A famous Indian sweet dish made from milk, rice, and sugar flavored with cardamom and rose water.
- Kulfi $7.95
Light Indian ice cream flavored with saffron.
- Ice Cream $7.95
Meat Delicacies
- Lamb Chili $21.95
Cubes of lamb cooked with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and green chiles. Served with rice
- Gosht Dhansak $21.95
Lamb cooked with lentils, hot spices, Persian style. Served with basmati rice. Served with rice
- Lamb Rogan Josh $21.95
Lamb or beef cooked in freshly ground spices. Served with rice
- Lamb Saag $21.95
Lamb cooked with onions, tomatoes, and cream of spinach. Served with rice
- Lamb Vindaloo $21.95
Lamb or beef cooked with hot, spicy vinegar mixed sauce and potatoes. Served with rice
- Kadai Lamb $21.95
Lamb cooked with mixed vegetables in a light, spice sauce Served with rice
- Kheema Matar $21.95
Ground beef and green peas cooked with onions, toasted cumin, green chili, and coriander. Served with rice
- Gosht Pasanda $21.95
Lamb cooked with cream, almonds and sweet spices Mughlai fashion. Served with rice
- Gosht Bhuna $21.95
Medium hot lamb cooked with tomatoes and onions. Served with rice
- Gosht Madras $21.95
Medium hot lamb or beef cooked with tomatoes, south Indian style. Served with rice
Beverages
- Iced Coffee $4.95
- Pellegrino Water $7.00
One liter.
- Panna Water $7.00
One liter.
- Sweet Lassi $6.95
- Orange Juice $4.95
- Mango Juice $4.95
- Iced Tea $4.95
- Tea Or Choice Of Herbal Tea $3.95
- Apple Juice $4.95
- Alachi Masala Special Tea (Chai) $4.95
Tea, milk and sugar brewed with garam masala
- Coffee $3.95
- Soda $2.50
- Mango Lassi $7.95
- Masala Tea $3.95
Cinnamon cardamom flavored tea
- Salted Lassi $6.95
- Cranberry Juice $4.95
Alachi Masala Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Halal food
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Alachi Masala Photos










Alachi Masala Location
Alachi Masala
488 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024, USA
Alachi Masala Reviews
BYOBentreechicken tikka masalatandoori chickenfeewinegarlicvegetable samosasfillinghome
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We are visiting from Florida and were out walking and happened to find this hidden gem. It was amazing! The owner came out and visited with us. My daughters loved their dishes and said it was the best meal we’ve had in NYC so far!
April 29 · Todd DouglasA small intimate Indian restaurant with a few indoor and 1 outdoor table. Food was good though the restaurant needs to add more server since service was very slow with only 1 server for full restaurant during peak brunch time. We waited almost half an hour for tea in the beginning and there were times where we grabbed our own menu so we can save some time. Overall, we know the server try his best though it did dent the experience.
November 23 · Nat T.Had dinner here on a Saturday. The place has a couple of tables to sit at for dine in patrons. The waitstaff were really friendly and gave good recommendations to my friend. They have decent amount of vegetarian options. Everything was cooked perfectly and the food didn’t take forever to come out.
March 05 · fiona brooklynI had the pleasure of dining at Alachi Masala, where I sampled three exquisite dishes that left an indelible impression. The samosas were a crispy delight, filled with flavorful spices and perfectly complemented by tangy chutneys. The chicken dish was a culinary masterpiece, with tender, succulent pieces immersed in a rich blend of spices. On the vegetarian side, the dish I tried was a burst of flavors, showcasing the chef's expertise in creating a satisfying and savory option. However, what truly elevated this dining experience was the exceptional service. The staff, under the owner's attentive guidance, treated me with warmth and ensured that every aspect of my visit was impeccable. Alachi Masala is undeniably a haven for authentic Indian cuisine, offering a delightful gastronomic journey accompanied by impeccable service that I won't soon forget.
September 28 · Amol BhandariSome of the best Indian food in the city. I used to live nearby and it’s so good I moved out of the neighborhood and still come back for it. They have my favorite vegetable samosa anywhere hands down. Very nice atmosphere, cute neighborhood spot, great vegan options that are clearly labeled, 10/10 experience
April 16 · Francesca Kelley
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