Don't judge a book by its cover. I know that's a well used, even overused, phrase, but if there was ever a restaurant that falls under this category, it's the Chit Chaat Cafe. That's because it's a wonderful Indian restaurant inside a gas station. I'm not sure I've ever pulled in to fill up my car’s gas tank and thought, "I could really go for some Indian food", but I will now. I can't say how much a hidden gem this place is. There are some pretty decent gas station food options. Wawa has a good-sized menu. Anyone who's tried Royal Farms chicken will say it's right up there with all the other chicken chains. Rumor is there's a Buc-ee's coming to Northern Virginia in the next couple years. So food in gas stations is not a new thing, but Chit Chaat puts them all to shame. I tried a few different menu options and was surprised by how good everything was. Portions are a good size, price is reasonable, and the taste - fantastic. Traditional somosas, pani puri, biryani, and, of course, butter chicken are on the menu. One nontraditional option has become a fan’s favorite: their burritos. I was surprised to see this on the menu but it also makes sense. Chit Chaat has a few stools to use in the Mobile station but probably over 95% of customers want to-go orders. What better to-go, eat-on-the-run food is there than a burrito? Chit Chaat still uses the Indian flavors and sauces but wraps them in a tortilla to make it easy to take with you. The last time I was lucky enough to go there it was a beautiful, sunny day. I walked 1 block to a park and sat at a table to enjoy the weather and the meal. Lamb cooked perfectly, chicken well seasoned, naan delicious.
As I have written, everything is great and I look forward to my next visit. Can't wait to try more of their menu. Being inside a Mobile gas station means they have many drink options, but they also have Indian beers and Mango Lassi ready to take with you. This would be a great restaurant if it were a stand alone business on Maple Ave. The fact that it's inside a gas station just gives it even more charm and a great story. I highly encourage you to try Chit Chaat Cafe. Once you go, you'll become a regular. There is only one negative I found. You might be so excited to get your food, you'll forget to fill up your car with gas. The bright side is, if you run out of gas on the way home, you'll have something great to eat while you wait for help.
コメント