Masala Box

- 42-02 Bell Blvd, Flushing, NY 11361

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers who appreciate the rich, complex tapestry of authentic Indian cuisine, Masala Box in Flushing, Queens, is a must-visit destination. More than just a traditional restaurant, Masala Box positions itself as a modern Indian eatery, blending the familiar comfort of classic curries with the inventive flair of Indian tapas and a welcoming lounge atmosphere. The restaurant’s name is inspired by the essential spice box central to all Indian cooking, and this philosophy translates directly into their food—every dish is a flavorful, expertly spiced composition that honors the core of Indian cooking.

Masala Box, which proudly identifies as a women-owned business, offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences. Their kitchen excels at creating rich, savory curries, such as the popular Chicken Tikka Masala, the fiery Vindaloo, and the Southern Indian Chicken Curry, noted for its use of coconut milk and a touch of tamarind. Vegetarian and vegan diners are exceptionally well-catered to, with clearly labeled options including Baigan Bhurta, Punjabi Chole, and Lasooni Dal, praised by customers as some of the best in the area. The menu also includes a substantial 'Tapas' section featuring creative small plates like Samosa Chaat, Gobi Phataka (crunchy cauliflower florets), and Kheema Flutes, perfect for sharing and getting a quick bite.

Diners consistently rave about the quality and depth of flavor in the food, with one book club enthusiastically praising the paneer saag as "probably the best I’ve ever had," alongside highly flavorful chicken dishes and perfectly cooked rice. The house-made breads, including soft Naan, Chapati, and specialty Stuffed Naan options like Paneer Paratha and Olive Naan, are also a highlight. Despite an occasional hiccup in service flow, particularly during peak times, Masala Box is noted for generally providing 'Fast service' and maintaining a 'Cozy' and 'Trendy' yet casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for lunch, dinner, or comfortable solo dining.

Location and Accessibility

Masala Box is conveniently located in the vibrant Flushing area of Queens, situated at 42-02 Bell Blvd, Flushing, NY 11361, USA. This prime location on Bell Boulevard makes it highly accessible for Queens residents and visitors from across the New York metropolitan area.

The establishment has taken care to ensure it is welcoming to all members of the community by prioritizing accessibility features. The dining space includes a wheelchair accessible entrance, wheelchair accessible seating, and a wheelchair accessible restroom, providing a comfortable and accommodating environment for every guest. For those traveling by car, parking is manageable in the area, with options for both free street parking and paid street parking available nearby, a valuable convenience in the busy Bayside/Flushing neighborhood.

Services Offered

Masala Box offers a comprehensive suite of services, accommodating everything from a quick weeknight meal to large celebratory events:

• Dine-In Options: Available for Lunch and Dinner, offering table service in a 'Casual,' 'Cozy,' and 'Trendy' setting.
• Takeout and Delivery: Provides convenient options for Takeout, standard Delivery, and No-contact Delivery.
• Bento Boxes: Offers pre-packaged Bento Boxes (Vegetarian, Vegan, and Chicken) for quick, balanced, and flavorful lunch or dinner solutions.
• Bar and Beverage Service: Operates as a full Bar and Lounge with a selection of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard Liquor, and Wine, alongside a 'Great tea selection' and popular drinks like Mango Lassi and Masala Chai.
• Specialized Offerings: Provides Halal food options, Comfort food, Quick bites, and an extensive menu of Small plates/Tapas.
• Group Accommodations: Popular for hosting both 'Family-friendly' groups and larger gatherings, and the restaurant officially accepts reservations.
• Event Services: Offers catering for external events.

Features / Highlights

Masala Box stands out in the competitive New York dining landscape due to a collection of distinctive features and customer-praised qualities:

• Exceptional Vegan and Vegetarian Selection: The menu offers numerous clearly labeled Vegan options (e.g., Lasooni Dal, Punjabi Chole, Vegetable Biryani) and Vegetarian options, making it a highly reliable and popular choice for plant-based diners.
• Creative Indian Tapas: Features a dedicated Tapas menu with inventive small plates like Samosa Chaat, Chicken 65, and Amritsari Fish Pakoras, perfect for a bar setting or shared appetizers.
• High-Quality Beverages: Noted for having a 'Great tea selection,' which includes traditional Masala Chai, and a full bar offering Cocktails and a variety of liquors.
• Halal Options: Caters to diverse dietary requirements by offering Halal food.
• Signature Chutneys: Offers house-made chutneys (Mango, Mint) and their famous 'No Kiddin' Hot Sauce!' for an extra kick of flavor.
• Atmosphere and Ambience: Maintains a 'Quiet' yet 'Trendy' atmosphere that is both 'Family-friendly' and accommodating to groups and tourists.
• Commitment to Speed: Known for generally providing 'Fast service,' which is ideal for quick lunches and diners on the go.

Contact Information

To enjoy the diverse and authentic flavors of Masala Box in Queens, New York locals can use the following information:

Address: 42-02 Bell Blvd, Flushing, NY 11361, USA

Phone: (718) 281-2699

What is Worth Choosing

Masala Box is truly worth choosing for the New York diner for several compelling reasons that extend beyond simply serving high-quality Indian cuisine. The restaurant successfully bridges the gap between traditional Indian dining and a modern tapas/lounge experience, offering something for everyone. For those seeking authentic flavors, the menu delivers with intensely flavorful curries like the Chicken Tikka Masala, which is often listed as a bestseller, and the deeply spiced Vindaloo.

The dedication to diverse dietary needs is a significant draw; the extensive and clearly marked Vegan and Vegetarian options, alongside Halal offerings, make Masala Box a welcoming and safe dining spot for a variety of patrons. The unique Indian tapas menu encourages a fun, social dining style, ideal for groups or individuals looking for a varied tasting experience. Furthermore, the combination of a full Bar, a great tea selection, and a range of desserts like Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai, ensures a complete and satisfying meal experience from start to finish.

While one customer noted a regrettable delay in bread service, the overwhelming consensus points to delicious, flavorful food and good service overall. The atmosphere—casual, cozy, and trendy—is perfect for both neighborhood regulars and those visiting Flushing. Choosing Masala Box means supporting a local, women-owned business that is committed to fresh, flavorful food and a welcoming environment, solidifying its reputation as a standout Indian dining option in the Queens landscape.

Masala Box

42-02 Bell Blvd, Flushing, NY 11361, USA