Cheeni Introduce
In a city celebrated for its diverse and innovative food scene, Cheeni emerges as a distinctive and welcoming gem in the heart of Brooklyn. More than just a restaurant, Cheeni is a multi-faceted establishment that seamlessly combines the cozy charm of a cafe, the curated elegance of a wine bar, and the vibrant flavors of Indian and Asian-inspired cuisine. Its self-described "Indian-ish" approach sets it apart, offering a fresh take on familiar dishes and introducing New Yorkers to the delightful world of Indian street food and traditional snacks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, a place where you can feel at ease whether you’re settling in with a laptop for some work or catching up with friends over a glass of wine. This unique blend of functions and a commitment to a friendly, inclusive environment makes Cheeni a standout in its neighborhood. It’s a place that caters to various moods and moments, from a quiet morning coffee to a lively evening with friends. The fact that it is a women-owned business also adds a layer of community-focused appeal that resonates with many patrons who appreciate supporting local and diverse enterprises. Cheeni is not just a place to eat; it's a destination for a truly unique and enjoyable culinary experience that brings a taste of home-cooked flavors to a sophisticated, yet approachable, setting.
The menu at Cheeni is a creative fusion of familiar comforts and exciting new flavors, organized to cater to different times of the day. For mornings, you can enjoy a hearty **Egg Paratha** or the full **Cheeni Breakfast Plate** with masala-spiced eggs, tater tots, and bacon. The cafe side of the business shines with its **Tea & Coffee** selection, featuring traditional **Indian Masala Chai** alongside classic espresso drinks like **Cappuccino** and **Latte**. The brunch menu on weekends is particularly popular, with unique items such as a **Masala Egg & Cheese** sandwich and the house favorite, a **Loaded Egg Paratha** stuffed with tater tots and veggies. As the day progresses, the focus shifts to a range of “Not Salads” and other creative bites like the **Kati Roll Crunchwrap** and “Fancy” Maggi Noodles. The evening menu truly showcases the restaurant's unique identity, with a selection of **Kolkata Tea Snacks** and **Mumbai Street Foods** that are hard to find elsewhere, such as **Phuchka** and **Vada Pav**. To complement the food, the bar offers a carefully chosen selection of beverages, including a curated list of **Wine** and various types of **Beer**, from local New York breweries like Ghost Brewing Co. to international favorites like Kingfisher. The menu's dedication to quality and originality is evident in every section, making it a place where you can discover new and exciting flavors with every visit.
Cheeni is located at **485 Tompkins Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11216**. This address places it in a vibrant and dynamic part of the borough, making it a convenient and desirable destination. Tompkins Avenue is a lively street, known for its eclectic mix of small businesses and community-oriented spots. The restaurant’s location is easily accessible by various public transportation options, including bus routes that run along Tompkins Avenue. For those who prefer to drive, the area offers **Free street parking**, which is a significant convenience in a bustling city like New York. The presence of **Outdoor seating** is also a key feature, allowing patrons to enjoy their meal in a relaxed, open-air setting, particularly during the warmer months. The restaurant's integration into the local neighborhood is a core part of its appeal, as it provides a sense of community and familiarity that can be hard to find in a big city. The convenient location, combined with the comfortable amenities, makes Cheeni a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike. It's the kind of place you can easily walk to from surrounding blocks or make a dedicated trip for a truly unique and enjoyable dining experience.
Cheeni offers a suite of services and amenities that enhance the customer experience. The service options include **Outdoor seating** and **Dine-in**, providing flexible ways to enjoy your meal. The restaurant also features **Counter service**, which is perfect for those who want to grab a quick coffee or snack. When it comes to dining, Cheeni caters to all parts of the day, with dedicated menus for **Breakfast**, **Lunch**, and **Dinner**, as well as a selection of **Dessert** items. The offerings are diverse and include **Alcohol**, with a good selection of **Beer** and **Wine**. Patrons can also enjoy **Small plates**, which are great for sharing or for a light meal. The restaurant is also proud to offer **Vegetarian options**, ensuring that there is a wide range of choices for those with dietary preferences. The amenities are designed for comfort and convenience, with an **onsite bar**, **gender-neutral restroom**, and a general **restroom**. Additionally, the availability of **Wi-Fi** makes it a popular spot for those who want to get some work done while enjoying a coffee. For those with pets, the policy of allowing **dogs outside** is a great feature. The restaurant accepts various modern payment methods, including **Credit cards**, **Debit cards**, and **NFC mobile payments**, making transactions quick and easy. These features and amenities all contribute to making Cheeni a versatile and accommodating place for any occasion.
What makes Cheeni a hidden local gem and a place worth choosing is its distinct character and unwavering commitment to a unique culinary experience. The restaurant’s "Indian-ish" concept is more than a novelty; it is a genuine celebration of flavors and traditions, as evidenced by positive customer reviews that praise the authenticity and deliciousness of the food. The fact that it is a **women-owned** business is a powerful highlight that resonates with many patrons who are looking to support ethical and community-focused establishments. The atmosphere is consistently described as cozy and friendly, with a staff that is genuinely sweet and accommodating. The seamless transition from a morning cafe to an evening wine bar is a major highlight, as it provides a versatile space for the community. The combination of classic coffee and tea options with unique Indian-inspired breakfast and brunch dishes makes it a truly special place to start your day. For dinner, the inventive menu of street food and small plates, paired with a carefully selected list of wines and beers, offers a perfect setting for a relaxed and flavorful evening. The availability of outdoor seating and the pet-friendly policy further add to its appeal. In a city of endless choices, Cheeni stands out by offering a unique and authentic experience that feels both familiar and exciting, making it a must-visit spot in Brooklyn.
Contact Information:
Address: 485 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Phone: (347) 365-4015
Cheeni Menu
Salads
- Crispy Paneer And Tamarind-Date Vinaigrette Salad $14.00
- Cheeni Caesar Salad $12.00
Kolkata Tea Snacks
- Phuchka $10.00
- Peyaji
- Chop Bengali-Style Croquettes $10.00
Mumbai Street Foods
- Masala Papor $6.00
- Vada Pav $16.00
- Keema | Lentil (V) Pav $16.00
Desserts
- Tea-Ramisu $10.00
Mornings
- Egg Paratha $8.00
- Loaded Egg Paratha $10.00
- Cheeni Breakfast Plate $13.00
- Cheeni Vegan Scramble $13.00
Not Salads
- Kati Roll Crunchwrap $14.00
- Cheeni Toastie $11.00
- Fancy" Maggi Noodles $13.00
Brunch
- Crispy Paneer And Tamarind-Date Vinaigrette Salad $14.00
- Cheeni Caesar Salad $12.00
- Masala Egg & Cheese $10.00
- Loaded Egg Paratha $10.00
- Cheeni Breakfast Plate $13.00
- Cheeni Vegan Scramble $13.00
- Keema | Lentil (V) Pav $16.00
- Mimosa $14.00
Beer
- Kingfisher $7.00
- Taj Mahal
- Ghost Brewing Co. Amber $8.00
- Montauk Tropical Ipa $8.00
- Crooked Owl Hard Tepache Piña
- Clausthaler Na Brewing
Na Refreshers
- Aam Panna $5.50
- Masala Coke $5.50
- Mango Lassi $6.00
Drinks
- Indian Masala Chai
- Iced Chai
- Cold Brew
- Americano
- Cappuccino
- Iced American Chai Lat Te
- Tea Selection
Specially Drinks
- Aam Panna
Wine
- Cava Brut, Conquilla $12.00
- Albariño Rías Baixas, Val De Meigas, 2024 $14.00
- Chenin Blanc 'Helios', Pax 2023 $14.00
- Gewürztraminer, Ravines 2023 $17.00
- Rose, Massaya 2023 $13.00
- Orange Rose, Big Salt Ovum 2024 $15.00
- Palhete 'Atelier', Quinta Do Romeu Mwo 2023 $14.00
- Pinot Noir 'Eola-Amity Hills', Salem Wine Co 2024 $17.00
- Bairrada Tinto, 'Dinamica', Filipa Pato 2023 $13.00
Tea & Coffee
- Indian Masala Chai $5.50
- Drip Coffee $2.50
- Cold Brew $5.00
- Espresso $2.75
- Americano $3.50
- Latte $4.25
- Cappuccino $4.00
- Cortado $4.25
- Matcha $5.50
- Mocha $4.50
- Assorted Tea Bags $3.00
Afternoons, Salads
- Crispy Paneer & Tamarind-Date Vinaigrette Salad
- Cheeni Spoon Salad $12.00
Others
- Vanilla $50.00
- Caramel $50.00
Cheeni Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
- Takeout
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- Free street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Cheeni Photos










Cheeni Location
Cheeni
485 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216, USA
Cheeni Reviews
dinnermasala chaiwinethe menupatiopeyajipastriescafevada pavpaneer salad
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Had a delicious breakfast here - so much to choose from! Really enjoyed the cardamom & plum pastry, along with the masala egg & cheese sandwich we split. Delicious drinks, cozy atmosphere, and super friendly staff… excited to come back for wine / dinner soon! Highly recommend, this is a hidden local gem.
July 21 · Brian CaulfieldReally cool new casual spot in the neighborhood. Had a great happy hour experience and excited to come for breakfast! The owner was very sweet and chatted with us about cool restaurants in the area!
September 08 · Michael Ian BaruchDelicious bites & fun drinks!The staff were super friendly to give us recommendations since we weren’t super familiar with the menu. The food was full of rich spices and very gooooood! I also ordered Masala Coke, which was a fun twist on coke. My new fav restaurant!
July 17 · Kim JinhyoungAmazing spot. The food was so good - the most authentic Bengali snack food I’ve ever had at a restaurant! Wine list was excellent. Plus great outdoor space.
July 18 · Shomik SarkarI tried 3 dishes, a couple drinks and desserts in recent weeks and I think the flavor palette I enjoyed indian food growing up or the ideas in my mind on what fresh ideas on what indian food could look like now didn't play out when going to this establishment. For me, all the flavors felt off. The outdoor seating is a bit dangerous to place drinks on and outdoor chairs are a bit small to sit.The food/drinks while aesthetically pleasing... but the flavors were over-powering or mixed in a way that made the whole experience of the food not very enjoyable. If the flavors work for you, I think you'll enjoy this place. If not, don't try lots of stuff on the menu just to convince yourself that it was you.
September 13 · Hiren PatelEvery. Single. Dish was amazing I'm gonna have to come back for every menu. Came for the dinner and was blown away. The phuchka, peyaji, keema, and the tea-ramisu were all incredible.
September 22 · Gambit Morningstar
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