Homestyle South Indian cuisine, located in the East Village. Owner Sruthi Chowdary partners with the team behind popular Indian restaurant chain Godavari, to offer dishes that are inspired by Sruthi's childhood meals, as well as street market staples from South India. The term "Khiladi" translates to player -- someone that is in the game and ready to do anything necessary to get the victory.
In my life, that meant going against the cultural norms expected of South Asian women in today's society. See, I'm not your typical Indian woman. I have 5 tattoos and my favorite beer is a Kingfisher. I used to play by the rules I until realized that pleasing others wouldn't lead me to living a happy, fulfilled life.
In my life, that meant going against the cultural norms expected of South Asian women in today's society. See, I'm not your typical Indian woman. I have 5 tattoos and my favorite beer is a Kingfisher. I used to play by the rules I until realized that pleasing others wouldn't lead me to living a happy, fulfilled life.
Reviews (27)
Emi B.
Jan 08, 2022
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I don't understand this place. Came with expectation and left confused.
*Idly Nugget - imaging sliced chunk of sponge cake.
*Fried Shishito Pepper - seems pre fried for days and just sat there like those cheap Indian deli? Bread dough is so thick, and both the bread and Shishito wasn't crispy. So confused.
*Dosa - I like dosa in general. Also find this lack of actual vegetable but overwhelmed with potato.
*Kheema Pao - want to be explorative but imaging this like "Indian spiced chili"
*Vindaloo - tasted like tomato ketchup soup and it wasn't spicy.
UGHH ! What&apos
*Idly Nugget - imaging sliced chunk of sponge cake.
*Fried Shishito Pepper - seems pre fried for days and just sat there like those cheap Indian deli? Bread dough is so thick, and both the bread and Shishito wasn't crispy. So confused.
*Dosa - I like dosa in general. Also find this lack of actual vegetable but overwhelmed with potato.
*Kheema Pao - want to be explorative but imaging this like "Indian spiced chili"
*Vindaloo - tasted like tomato ketchup soup and it wasn't spicy.
UGHH ! What&apos
Foodie S.
Dec 11, 2021
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Aliou Diaga
Dec 02, 2021
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Great spot for different Indian food! Staff was great and accommodating for all our group. We had different food restrictions and they were very helpful and courteous in accommodating us.Food itself was very delicious and made us feel like we are eating a home cooked meal! We will be coming back to try the rest of the menu
Lingxiao C.
Nov 29, 2021
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Came here for lunch and was blown away! Hands down the best Indian food I've had in NYC.
We started with Khiladi Pakodi which was batter-fried veggies. I thought the broccoli one was the best lol. The Madurai Fish Fry was amazing - must get! The Stuffed Naan was also good but the cheese made it too heavy. We asked for the curries to be made spicy, and boy oh boy, did they made it SPICY for us! According to my friend, the Pappu was really authentic, as was the Pork Vindaloo.
We really appreciated how Khiladi uses a myriad of spices to create a complex, vibrant flavor profile, instead of passing
We started with Khiladi Pakodi which was batter-fried veggies. I thought the broccoli one was the best lol. The Madurai Fish Fry was amazing - must get! The Stuffed Naan was also good but the cheese made it too heavy. We asked for the curries to be made spicy, and boy oh boy, did they made it SPICY for us! According to my friend, the Pappu was really authentic, as was the Pork Vindaloo.
We really appreciated how Khiladi uses a myriad of spices to create a complex, vibrant flavor profile, instead of passing
Olive Iosello
Nov 19, 2021
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Rachana N.
Nov 14, 2021
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Had an Indian feast at Khiladi the other day Located in East Village, they serve authentic South Indian food with a contemporary twist. The dishes I tried were all amazing and the spice was done right, which I really liked. The food here reminds me of my own Mom's South Indian cooking and comfort food, which the owner of the restaurant Sruthi, said is what she was going for, and that her childhood dishes were the inspiration. This would definitely be a cool place to go with friends and family.
Myra H.
Nov 13, 2021
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We came here this afternoon for lunch and had an amazing time. They have plenty of outdoor seating which we took advantage of since it was a beautiful day. The servers were all so kind, friendly, and attentive. We started with the chai which came with Parle-G cookies. We also tried the idli nuggets (which were delicious and spicy), nacho chat, Kerala chicken fry, and a vegetarian dosa. Everything tasted so fresh and flavorful. I can't wait to come back and try more things on their menu since they have so many unique dishes, and their desserts look amazing too. Definitely recommend this spot
Zach
Oct 23, 2021
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Jonathan Gough
Oct 04, 2021
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Kadeesha L.
Oct 04, 2021
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Khiladi takes Indian dishes we know and love and adds their spin on it! This spot is nestled on a corner in the East village and has great indoor and outdoor seating. The service is fast and friendly and the food is soooo good and affordable! What more can you ask for! A few of my faves from the night was the nacho chaat. It was similar to nachos because it has crisp, a spicy bite and definitely not short on toppings! But still carries the savory, pungent spice of traditional Indian fare. The fish fry was also delicious, cut into strips and easy for dipping. The saag paneer was creamy, rich and
Richa Gupta
Sep 23, 2021
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This has to be one of the best Indian foods in the city. I wish this place got the populariry it deserves.
I loved how maggi was perfectly al dante. The dahi puri was really delicious too. I liked their uttampam too.
I am veg but my bf ate the fish and raved about it. The kuttu parantha was average but I might not be the best judge for it.
The interiors are done quite thoughtfully too with little knick knacks
I loved how maggi was perfectly al dante. The dahi puri was really delicious too. I liked their uttampam too.
I am veg but my bf ate the fish and raved about it. The kuttu parantha was average but I might not be the best judge for it.
The interiors are done quite thoughtfully too with little knick knacks
Jamie R.
Sep 16, 2021
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I love this local spot.
The chai is excellent here but more importantly the stuffed naan is amazing here. Definitely try the stuffed naan
I also recommend the kathu parata, if you're familiar with American stuffing this is like the southern Indian version of it... but much better.
All the food is incredibly flavorful and well balanced here, definitely give it a try!!
The chai is excellent here but more importantly the stuffed naan is amazing here. Definitely try the stuffed naan
I also recommend the kathu parata, if you're familiar with American stuffing this is like the southern Indian version of it... but much better.
All the food is incredibly flavorful and well balanced here, definitely give it a try!!
Jatin A.
Sep 13, 2021
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Khiladi's been on my list for a while now and having moved into the neighborhood recently it was inevitable for us to find ourselves there.
We were seated in the outdoor area, in spite of seats being reserved for a birthday party that was to happen in about 1.5 hrs. The owner was present too, and she came off as being a friendly hostess. The waiter was also helpful, and so, I'd rate the service very highly.
As for the food, we got the chicken Tikka masala curry with garlic naan. It was good and plentiful but we have had better (not to take anything away from it).
We tried the Malabar
We were seated in the outdoor area, in spite of seats being reserved for a birthday party that was to happen in about 1.5 hrs. The owner was present too, and she came off as being a friendly hostess. The waiter was also helpful, and so, I'd rate the service very highly.
As for the food, we got the chicken Tikka masala curry with garlic naan. It was good and plentiful but we have had better (not to take anything away from it).
We tried the Malabar
Jayden B.
Aug 29, 2021
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Annie B.
Aug 18, 2021
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Such a cute restaurant! The inside and outside is well decorated so it's a cute place to visit as a tourist and take pictures!
The Indian food was DELICIOUS. There was so much flavor with the different sauces, and usually I'm not a big fan of Indian food but this was so good!
The only con I have is that they were late with making my food.. but it was only 10 minutes so not the end of the world.
The Indian food was DELICIOUS. There was so much flavor with the different sauces, and usually I'm not a big fan of Indian food but this was so good!
The only con I have is that they were late with making my food.. but it was only 10 minutes so not the end of the world.
Heath W.
Aug 14, 2021
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Amazing spin on your traditional Indian fare. This is my second time here. On this occasion each dish we had was uniquely special and delicious. The Tikka masala was one of the better I've ever had, but I think where this place really shines is in the less traditional dishes.
The kerala chicken fry was absolutely delightful, perfect amount of spice, breading - the chicken was tender and juicy, and accompanied with excellent dipping sauces.
The stuffed naan was essentially a type of flatbread/pizza and full of flavors and textures. The combo of soft naan, and cheese with bits of meat set
The kerala chicken fry was absolutely delightful, perfect amount of spice, breading - the chicken was tender and juicy, and accompanied with excellent dipping sauces.
The stuffed naan was essentially a type of flatbread/pizza and full of flavors and textures. The combo of soft naan, and cheese with bits of meat set
Sarah Teng
Aug 14, 2021
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Niha K.
Jul 31, 2021
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Second time visit! Stopped by on a Saturday night for dinner. The Malabar fish fry was amaaaazing! Had the quality of an upscale restaurant while simultaneously having the taste of the best street food in the motherland. Nacho chaat was also really good. Lamb dosa was decent, but nothing special. Will definitely be coming back (again)
Mansi Mehta
Jul 01, 2021
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Khiladi is one of my favorite Indian restaurants in the city. The restaurant offers not only fusion but authentic south Indian food. I have been to this restaurant several times and every time I came out satisfied not just with amazing food but also with impeccable service.
The ambiance in this restaurant is made by their fun wall decors and mural painting that creates a nice vibe when you are sitting in the restaurant and looking around.
Most fusion restaurants loose the true Indian taste or feel but I must say that this place you will find no mess with the taste, from the chutney to the Rasam
The ambiance in this restaurant is made by their fun wall decors and mural painting that creates a nice vibe when you are sitting in the restaurant and looking around.
Most fusion restaurants loose the true Indian taste or feel but I must say that this place you will find no mess with the taste, from the chutney to the Rasam
Kenneth Mitchell
May 23, 2021
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Khiladi is nicely tucked away on quiet streets in LES which is great for both indoor and outdoor dining. The wall art and decorations set the perfect mood for their tasteful snacks and small plates all of which are very thoughtfully prepared and presented. We had their take on Pani puri, also know as "Balls of Happiness" 😁 which were very savory and had a nice kick. Make sure to ask your server of which dishes will be spicy, we liked spice but if you're not a fan their happy to help you pick the best dishes. We also had their Chicken Tikka a very classic Indian dish but here it unlike any other
Amit M.
May 09, 2021
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If you're looking for delicious Indian food that's not your cliche Punjabi spot, this is your spot. Khiladi is a modern take on South Indian food. Between two people, we ordered the Andhra munchkins, fish fry and lamb ghee roast and it was plenty of food.
If you're Gujarati, the munchkins are a South Indian take on daal vada. It was very good and comes with a sambar and chutney. The fish fry was also really good. This is a South Indian staple so I'd definitely recommend ordering this. My favorite was definitely the lamb ghee roast, which slapped. The meat was seasoned very
If you're Gujarati, the munchkins are a South Indian take on daal vada. It was very good and comes with a sambar and chutney. The fish fry was also really good. This is a South Indian staple so I'd definitely recommend ordering this. My favorite was definitely the lamb ghee roast, which slapped. The meat was seasoned very
Prianka S.
May 09, 2021
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Have to support woman owned businesses! Loved all the decorations inside the restaurant. The bathroom's decorations were also super cute and had Hindi puns too.
Came here on a Saturday night and were able to get a table as soon as we walked in. We started off with Kingfishers and they were served nice and cold in cute mason jars. It's hard to find Kingfishers so I'm glad they had them here.
We actually got very full just from 3 "small plates." We got the Andhra lentil munchkins, Madhurai fish fry and the lamb ghee roast. All were delicious, but what stood out to me the
Came here on a Saturday night and were able to get a table as soon as we walked in. We started off with Kingfishers and they were served nice and cold in cute mason jars. It's hard to find Kingfishers so I'm glad they had them here.
We actually got very full just from 3 "small plates." We got the Andhra lentil munchkins, Madhurai fish fry and the lamb ghee roast. All were delicious, but what stood out to me the
Sri Buddy
May 01, 2021
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Khiladi NYC is a vibrant Indian restaurant that reinvented the way that we view South Indian cuisine. The atmosphere of the restaurant is inviting and trendy, presenting a fun and exciting dining experience. While there are authentic items on the menu, some of the fusion dishes like the nacho chat and the idli nuggets are unique to the restaurant. The owner provided great recommendations and is dedicated towards providing every single one of her customers with the best experience. From their extensive dinner, desserts, and drinks menu to their ambiance, Khiladi NYC is a MUST VISIT restaurant if
Shyam K.
Apr 03, 2021
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Khiladi is a must try! I've been meaning to visit ever since they opened and we finally made it last night. We weren't really there for dinner so we just had a appetizers and a desert and we were blown away. The apps we had were all classics that were executed perfectly with a small touch to make it unique. We got the Khiladi versions of pakora, samosas, and chaat and they were all so delicious. I also got the filtered coffee which tasted exaaactly like the coffee I am used to from India. For desert we got the gulab jamun sundae and that was, predictably, incredible. The vibe, decor,
Robin Dern
Dec 03, 2020
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Alice W.
Nov 13, 2020
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Ordered delivery here- Took a bit of time to find the app that will deliver (finally worked in Grubhub).
Ordered the samosa, chicken tikka masala and the fish curry.
Packaging was great- everything was well packed and nothing spilled. The mains each came with a container of rice.
Naan- the naan was good and very chewy but I think maybe because if the delivery it is get a bit soft, I like my naan on the crispy side.
Samosa- very yummy, I love a good samosa. The end was a bit spicier than I thought because the spice builds up but I really like spicy so it was great.
Tikka masala- really creamy
Ordered the samosa, chicken tikka masala and the fish curry.
Packaging was great- everything was well packed and nothing spilled. The mains each came with a container of rice.
Naan- the naan was good and very chewy but I think maybe because if the delivery it is get a bit soft, I like my naan on the crispy side.
Samosa- very yummy, I love a good samosa. The end was a bit spicier than I thought because the spice builds up but I really like spicy so it was great.
Tikka masala- really creamy
Brion R.
Aug 26, 2020
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"Nothing to exciting here...move on"
As much as I like to endorse Indian restaurants in NYC since they are among the least loved on favorite lists and generally get the most objections in a group dining hive, I have to say this place is only "fair".
While the decor is nice and the outdoor seating is well down, the menu is just not that interesting or simply unappealing.
Editors note: I originally stated Vindaloo was not traditionally served with pork, which is in fact not the case in Goa, and was corrected by the owner.
What's to cheer
- Good Beer list and creative
As much as I like to endorse Indian restaurants in NYC since they are among the least loved on favorite lists and generally get the most objections in a group dining hive, I have to say this place is only "fair".
While the decor is nice and the outdoor seating is well down, the menu is just not that interesting or simply unappealing.
Editors note: I originally stated Vindaloo was not traditionally served with pork, which is in fact not the case in Goa, and was corrected by the owner.
What's to cheer
- Good Beer list and creative
