A LITTLE ABOUT US
Chai Pani literally means “tea and water.” It's slang in India for going out for a cup of tea, a tasty bite, a snack, or “a little something.” In Downtown Asheville and Downtown Decatur it means innovative, fun, affordable and delicious Indian cuisine. We'd go so far as to say it's “mindblasting.”
Some of the best food of any country is its street food, and Chai Pani features chaat - crunchy, spicy, sweet, tangy, brightly flavored Indian street snacks. And because there's nothing more comforting and delicious in any culture than a home cooked meal, Chai Pani also brings you thalis, traditional family meals highlighting India's amazing culinary diversity.
"With a few steps through the double doors of Chai Pani’s new location at 32 Banks Avenue, you’ll find yourself transported into what can only be described as an Indian wonderland."
"For chef Meherwan Irani, winning a James Beard Award is a crucial step towards putting authentic Indian food on the global map."
"Meherwan Irani’s lighthearted homage to Indian street food has long been beloved by locals, but it also draws steady crowds of tourists with its vivid flavors."
Meet Meherwan & Molly Irani
MEHERWAN IRANI is the Co-Founder, Chef and CEO of Chai Pani Restaurant Group. Through his restaurant and spice empire in the South’s most essential culinary cities, he is changing the perception of Indian food in America. He's been named a Game Changer by Food & Wine and one of Time Magazine's 31 People Changing the South.
MOLLY IRANI is the Co-founder and Chief Hospitality Officer. She is responsible for CPRG's groundbreaking culture, management style, community engagement and “mindblasting” hospitality.
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Botiwalla by Chai Pani
Meet our sister restaurant, Botiwalla by Chai Pani, Meherwan Irani's love letter to Irani Cafés and India's late night grills.
Work With Us
We don't see ourselves as a food company serving people, but as a people company serving food.