Varli Indian Street Kitchen

- 78 Hillside Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596

Introduction / Overview

New Yorkers looking for an authentic and vibrant taste of Indian culture and cuisine need to look no further than Varli Indian Street Kitchen, located in Williston Park, Long Island. More than just a restaurant, Varli is a culinary destination that celebrates the diverse, bold, and heartwarming flavors of Indian street food, blended with a modern, welcoming, and colorful dining experience. It is the vision of renowned restaurateur and cultural advocate Varli Singh, who has dedicated over a decade to promoting Indian cuisine globally through her magazine, food festivals, and now, her own restaurant. This establishment is a must-visit for anyone craving flavorful and fresh Indian fare, from quick bites of Chaat to satisfying curries served in traditional Tiffins.

Varli Indian Street Kitchen stands out in the New York culinary landscape for its commitment to authentic yet healthy preparation. The menu emphasizes dishes that are freshly baked or roasted, moving away from heavy oils and creams typical of some Indian-American fare. They also use fresh halal meat, ensuring the highest quality of ingredients and authenticity in their meat dishes. The atmosphere itself is a major draw, designed to immerse diners in Indian culture with vibrant colors, a wall-length mural by Chicago muralist Jenny Vyas, and artistic furniture. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a cheerful, inspiring space that captures the 'authentic vibes' of India, as noted by enthusiastic patrons.

Location and Accessibility

Varli Indian Street Kitchen is conveniently situated at 78 Hillside Ave., in the heart of Williston Park, NY 11596, USA. This Long Island location makes it easily accessible for residents across the New York metropolitan area looking for an exceptional dining experience outside the hustle of Manhattan. The location offers excellent accessibility for all guests, which is a significant factor for families, groups, and individuals. Parking is manageable, with options for both free and paid street parking available nearby, which is a major convenience in the competitive New York area. For those relying on public transport or driving, the Williston Park address is a straightforward destination for a memorable meal.

The restaurant is dedicated to providing an inclusive experience. It offers a fully accessible environment with:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

Services Offered

Varli Indian Street Kitchen provides a wide range of services to accommodate all dining preferences, from a quick solo lunch to a full family dinner:

• Dining Options: The restaurant serves Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, offering varied menus to suit different times of the day.
• Off-Premise Services: Available options include Delivery, Takeout, No-contact delivery, and Curbside pickup for maximum convenience.
• Catering: They provide catering services for special events, allowing you to bring the authentic flavors of Varli to your next party or gathering.
• Onsite Amenities: A full Bar is onsite, complemented by free Wi-Fi and clean Restrooms.
• Beverages: Offerings include Alcohol, Beer, Wine, Cocktails, and Coffee, with a special focus on unique Indian-inspired alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails infused with spices like Tamarind, Kokum, and Chaat Masala.
• Family-Friendly Features: The restaurant is good for kids, offering High chairs and a dedicated Kids' menu.
• Pet-Friendly: For those dining outside, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

Features / Highlights

Varli Indian Street Kitchen is distinguished by several unique features that elevate it above a typical Indian restaurant experience in the New York region:

• Specialty Street Food and Chaat: The core of the menu is its celebration of Indian Street Food, including highly praised items like Samosa Chaat, Dahi Puri, and the signature 'Butter Chicken Momos' (Nepalese dumplings in a buttery tomato sauce), providing shareable plates perfect for a casual outing.
• Unique Chai Selection: They are known for their exceptional, strong 'Kadak Chai' (strong tea), which can also be ordered in varieties like Saffron Elaichi Chai, often served traditionally in a painted clay cup without handles, complete with Parle G cookies.
• Traditional Tiffin Service: Curries and entrees are often served in cute little stainless steel carriers known as Tiffins, which a server unlocks at your table, adding an authentic, visual element to the dining experience.
• Focus on Authentic and Healthier Cooking: The restaurant prides itself on freshly baked or roasted dishes and the use of fresh halal meat, offering a lighter, healthier approach to traditional Indian cuisine without sacrificing flavor.
• Charitable Partnership: A portion of the restaurant’s proceeds supports the Varli Foundation, a charity dedicated to feeding hungry children globally, allowing patrons to contribute to a noble cause with their meal.
• Vibrant and Immersive Atmosphere: The interior is designed with a modern, colorful aesthetic, featuring vintage Bollywood posters and a stunning mural that creates an authentic, exciting backdrop for your meal.
• Renowned Founder: The restaurant is spearheaded by culinary icon and cultural advocate Varli Singh, ensuring a deeply authentic and expertly curated menu based on recipes passed down through generations.

Contact Information

For New York locals planning a visit or needing to place an order, here is the essential contact information for Varli Indian Street Kitchen:

Address: 78 Hillside Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596, USA

Phone: (516) 500-9429

Mobile Phone: +1 516-500-9429

What is worth choosing

Varli Indian Street Kitchen is worth choosing for a multitude of reasons, making it a standout Indian restaurant on Long Island for New York diners. The menu offers a perfect blend of beloved classics and exciting street food items. The dedication to authentic street food means you can enjoy popular, complex flavor profiles found in dishes like the customer-favorite Dahi Puri, Pani Puri, and Samosa Chaat. Their Curries & Entrées section covers all bases, from the creamy richness of classics like Chicken Tikka Masala and Paneer Tikka Masala to home-style regional specialties like Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, and Lamb Curry. The ability to choose a single-serving option from their Rice Bowls menu, such as the Chicken Tikka Masala Bowl or Saag Paneer Bowl, is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Customer testimonials frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the food and the warm hospitality, with some calling it the 'best Indian food' they have had, specifically praising the Sarson Ka Saag, Biryani, and Chicken Keema. For a distinctive beverage experience, their Kadak Chai is a must-try, providing a strong, rich, and perfectly spiced cup of tea. Finally, for those who love traditional Indian desserts and after-meal treats, the availability of authentic Paan (a refreshing betel leaf wrap) is a unique feature that seals the experience. Varli Indian Street Kitchen is the premier spot for New Yorkers seeking a flavorful escape into modern Indian street culture and time-honored dishes in a friendly, high-quality, and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Varli Indian Street Kitchen

78 Hillside Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596, USA