Dhaba Wala Indian Kitchen — Restaurant in Hartford

We recently ordered takeout from Dhabawala, an Indian restaurant that combines the charm of a traditional roadside "dhaba" with a nod to Mumbai’s legendary "dabbawalas"—the lunchbox delivery men renowned for their six sigma precision. The interior features artwork celebrating the dabbawala system, and the name seems to blend these two concepts, though the connection isn't obvious—maybe it's about dabbawalas delivering dhaba food? Either way, it’s a quirky fusion that works in its own way.

For our takeout, we chose the Samosa Chaat and Paneer Biryani, and both dishes were a pleasant surprise. The Samosa Chaat was fresh and flavorful, with a perfect balance of tangy chutneys, crispy samosas, and savory chickpeas. Each bite offered a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

The Paneer Biryani was equally enjoyable, though quite spicy—great for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The spices were bold yet balanced, and the paneer was soft and well-cooked, adding richness to the dish. The portions were generous; the two of us shared the meal and were more than satisfied.

Service-wise, the staff were friendly and efficient. Our order was ready promptly, and the person at the counter was courteous and helpful. Pricing was reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes and quality of the food.

Overall, Dhabawala is a fantastic option for takeout, especially if you’re craving authentic Indian flavors. While the restaurant itself is quite small and better suited for solo diners, the flavorful food and prompt service make it a worthwhile takeout...

Went there on a friday night with a couple of friends. The food was exceptionally good - we both 2 lambs and one goat dishes. Note, however, that while two of us asked for "mild" food, one of us asked for "hot" and it turned out to be not hot at all - I have pretty low tolerance for hot food, but I had no problem at all eating a few spoons of his dish. The other negative things about this place are: 1- the atmosphere and the tables: there is only 3 tables, and some counter space, so in the unlikely case you want to dine in, be aware that you may not find much space to eat in the restaurant. The atmosphere is almost non-existing. 2- the wait. We ordered food at 7:40pm, and we got it at 8:30pm. It was probably around peak hours, because a group of 3 people who ordered at 8:20pm got the food by 8:45pm. Just to be clear, I don't mind waiting 20' or even 30' for my food, but close to one hour is a bit of a stretch.

That said, the food was exceptional, in our opinion, and we all are quite familiar with Indian cuisine - I even had indian roomates for 3 years. This was a homemade, well-prepared food. Portions were generous. I like places with a good atmosphere, while this places is a very much no-frill family owned restaurant, so the atmosphere is non-existing. That said, I went to this restaurant to have good food, and I got really good food, so it exceeded my expectations. I will happily be back if I can figure out a time where I don't have to wait for almost an hour...

Dhaba Wala Indian Kitchen offers an exceptional dining experience that brilliantly captures the essence of authentic Indian street food with a modern twist. From the moment you step in, the cozy, welcoming ambiance sets the stage for a culinary journey packed with vibrant flavors and aromas.

The menu is filled with a variety of delicious options, but the star of the meal for me was their Chicken Tikka Masala—perfectly tender chicken in a creamy, tangy sauce that bursts with the rich flavors of Indian spices. The naan bread was light, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.

The vegetarian options are equally impressive. The Paneer Butter Masala was smooth and indulgent, with the paneer absorbing the creamy gravy beautifully. Paired with their basmati rice, each bite was a satisfying blend of textures and spices.

What stands out most is the balance between flavor and authenticity. The food is bold, but never overwhelming, and the spices are perfectly adjusted to bring out the best in every dish. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to recommend the perfect dish for your taste preferences.

Whether you're a fan of classic Indian dishes or are curious to try something new, Dhaba Wala Indian Kitchen is a must-visit. I can’t wait to go back and explore more of their menu!...