Chola: Authentic Indian Cuisine in Midtown, New York

Chola Introduce

In the bustling heart of New York City, where countless culinary traditions converge, one restaurant stands out for its vibrant and authentic take on Indian cuisine: Chola. Located in the lively Midtown East neighborhood, Chola isn't just a place to eat; it's a destination that transports you to the diverse and flavorful regions of India. With a menu that pays homage to both classic and coastal Indian dishes, Chola offers a dining experience that's rich in flavor, culture, and hospitality. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Indian food or a curious newcomer, you'll find something to love in this cozy and welcoming establishment.

Chola has earned a reputation for its commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The chefs skillfully blend aromatic spices and fresh produce to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the warm, inviting aroma of spices like turmeric, cardamom, and cumin, setting the stage for a memorable meal. The restaurant’s popularity is a testament to its consistent quality and a menu that’s been praised by both everyday diners and culinary icons like Martha Stewart, who has several favorites on the menu. This isn't just another restaurant; it's a cornerstone of the New York dining scene for anyone craving a genuine taste of India.

The culinary journey at Chola extends beyond the well-known curries and tandoori classics. The menu features an impressive selection of dishes from India's coastal regions, offering a unique twist on flavors you might not find elsewhere in the city. With a focus on fresh seafood and bold spices, these dishes bring a refreshing new dimension to Indian food. The restaurant also caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, with extensive vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options that ensure everyone can enjoy a delicious meal. This inclusive approach, combined with a focus on delivering an authentic experience, makes Chola a true gem in the heart of New York.

Location and Accessibility

Chola is conveniently situated at 232 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022, USA, in the vibrant Midtown East area of Manhattan. Its prime location makes it easily accessible for both local residents and tourists exploring the city. The restaurant is just a short walk from several subway stations, making public transportation a convenient option. For those arriving by car, there are paid parking garages and street parking options available nearby, although they can be limited, as is typical in New York City. The restaurant's storefront is easy to spot, with a welcoming entrance that hints at the delightful dining experience within.

In addition to its central location, Chola prioritizes accessibility for all guests. The establishment features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that people with mobility challenges can enter and exit with ease. Inside, the layout is designed to be accommodating, with wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms available. This commitment to accessibility means that everyone, regardless of their needs, can enjoy the wonderful flavors and cozy atmosphere of Chola. The staff are also known for their attentiveness and willingness to assist, adding to the comfortable and inclusive environment.

The neighborhood itself is a hub of activity, with plenty of shops, landmarks, and other attractions to explore before or after your meal. This makes Chola a perfect spot for a lunch break during a busy day of sightseeing or a relaxing dinner after a long day at the office. The combination of its central location and commitment to accessibility solidifies its status as a top choice for diners throughout the city. The convenience of its location is a major plus, allowing guests to seamlessly integrate a fantastic meal into their busy New York City schedules.

Services Offered

Curbside pickup: For a quick and easy way to get your meal without having to leave your car.
No-contact delivery: A safe and convenient option to have your food brought directly to you, minimizing contact.
Delivery: Standard delivery service for when you want to enjoy Chola's food from the comfort of your home or office.
Takeout: Place an order and pick it up at the restaurant to enjoy your meal elsewhere.
Dine-in: A full-service dining experience in the restaurant's cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Catering: A variety of menu options available for events, parties, and corporate gatherings, bringing the flavors of Chola to your special occasion.
Table service: Full waitstaff service to ensure a comfortable and attentive dining experience.
Accepts reservations: Allows you to plan ahead and secure a table for your visit, which is especially useful for groups or during peak hours.
High chairs: Available for families dining with young children, making it a kid-friendly spot.
NFC mobile payments: Modern payment options including credit cards and debit cards are accepted, providing convenience at checkout.

Features and Highlights

Fast Service: Chola is known for its efficient and prompt service, ensuring that you receive your food in a timely manner, perfect for a lunch break or a pre-theater dinner.
Great Tea Selection: For tea lovers, the restaurant offers a great variety of teas, providing the perfect accompaniment to your meal or a refreshing drink on its own.
Halal Food: The menu includes Halal options, catering to a wider range of dietary and religious requirements.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options: A comprehensive selection of dishes are available for both vegans and vegetarians, with many of the menu's main courses and appetizers being meat-free.
Alcoholic Beverages: The restaurant offers a full bar with a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, including hard liquor, to complement your dining experience.
Cozy and Casual Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as both casual and cozy, making it a comfortable place for a variety of occasions, whether it's a date night or a family dinner.
Martha Stewart's Favorites: The menu highlights several dishes that are personal favorites of Martha Stewart, including the Murgh Malai, Onion Naan, and Lemon Rice, offering a celebrity-approved dining choice.
Authentic Coastal Cuisine: Chola specializes in authentic coastal Indian cuisine, offering unique dishes like the Manglorean Fish Fry and Lata Shetty's Lobster Ghee Roast, setting it apart from other Indian restaurants.
Crowd-Friendly: The restaurant's spacious seating arrangements and accepting reservations make it a great place for groups to gather and enjoy a meal together.
Desserts: A tempting selection of traditional Indian desserts like Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai are available to complete your meal on a sweet note.

Contact Information

Address: 232 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Phone: (212) 688-4619

What is worth choosing

Chola is more than just a place to get Indian food; it's an experience built on authenticity, flavor, and a dedication to service. What sets it apart is its focus on coastal Indian cuisine, providing a unique and refreshing alternative to the standard Indian restaurant fare found across the city. The bold, vibrant flavors of dishes like the Chili Garlic Shrimp and the Manglorean Fish Fry are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence. For those seeking a truly unique taste, the coastal offerings are a must-try and represent the restaurant’s core strength.

The extensive menu also caters to all palates and dietary needs, ensuring that whether you're a vegetarian, a vegan, or a meat-eater, you'll find an array of options to satisfy your cravings. Highlights like the Paneer Malai Tikka and the Martha Stewart's Favorite Butter Chicken have become popular staples for a reason, lauded for their rich flavors and impeccable preparation. The chefs pay meticulous attention to detail, from the perfectly spiced Biryanis to the freshly baked Naan bread, creating dishes that are a work of art both visually and in taste. This attention to quality is a hallmark of Chola and a primary reason for its loyal customer base.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Chola is what makes a visit so memorable. The space is cozy and inviting, making you feel right at home the moment you walk in. The staff are known for their warmth and professionalism, providing excellent service that is both attentive and unobtrusive. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a great meal, the friendly and accommodating service elevates the entire dining experience. The reviews consistently praise the staff for their genuine care and ability to make every guest feel welcome, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to hospitality as much as its food.

Finally, Chola’s reputation as a go-to spot for an authentic and delicious Indian meal is well-deserved. Its combination of unique coastal dishes, a wide-ranging menu for all diets, and a genuinely warm atmosphere makes it a standout choice in a city with no shortage of dining options. It is a restaurant that appeals to everyone, from those familiar with Indian cuisine to those new to it, offering a flavorful and unforgettable journey. For a taste of India that feels both traditional and refreshingly modern, Chola is the perfect destination in New York.

Chola Food & drink

SOUP
Savitri Amma’s Rasam Soup $10.95
Tangy tomato lentil soup.
Mulligatawny Soup $10.95
Mashed lentils, coconut, and lemon.

VEGETARIAN STARTERS
Onion Pakora $10.95
Crispy onion fritters.
Samosa $12.95
Spiced potato and cauliflower fillings.
Kurkuri Bhindi $14.95
Crispy okra, besan flour, chaat masala, and lime. Must try.
Lasoni Gobi $14.95
Tangy cauliflower, ginger, and garlic. Must try.
Tamarind Eggplant $14.95
Chaat masala and besan crunchies.
Mushroom Haryali $15.95
Grilled in green marinade.
Chili Paneer $16.95
Fried cheese, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and soy sauce.
Paneer Malai Tikka $18.95
Tandoor fired cheese, onion, and bell pepper.

NON-VEGETARIAN STARTERS
Kodi Vepudu $16.95
Sauteed spiced chicken, onion, coconut, and curry leaves.
Chili Chicken $16.95
A Tangra specialty from Kolkata.
Achari Murgh Tikka $17.95
Tandoor fired chicken thighs and pickled spices.
Chicken Hariyali $18.95
Bone-in chicken with creamy green marinade.
Chapli Kabab $18.95
Hand slapped minced lamb patties.
Lamb Pepper Fry $18.95
A fiery dry Chettiyar preparation.

THELEWALA CHAAT
Bhel Puri $11.95
Savory crunchies, puffed rice, onions, and chutneys. Has gluten.
Purani Dilli Ki Papri Chaat $11.95
Flour semolina chips, yogurt, and tamarind green chutney. Has gluten.
Pani Puri $11.95
Potato and chickpea stuffed crisp puris, tamarind water. Has gluten.
Ragda Patties $12.95
Potato patties, spiced chickpeas, and chutneys. Has gluten.
Dahi Bhalla $12.95
Lentil fritters, yogurt, and chutneys.
Samosa Chaat $13.95
Spiced chickpeas, yogurt, onions, and chutneys.
Phuckawala Alu Dum $13.95
Spiced tamarind potatoes, fresh coriander, and ginger.

SEAFOOD
Royyala Vepudu $19.95
Tossed shrimp, onion, curry leaves, and coconut.
Baghari Jhinga $19.95
Creamy mustard shrimp, tomato, and curry leaves.
Jhinga Koliwada $19.95
The famous shrimp fry from the fisherman of the Koli tribe. Must try.
Chili Garlic Shrimp $19.95
A fiery red chili sauce.
Manglorean Fish Fry $19.95
Pan seared fish, pounded spices, and tamarind.

TANDOOR
Murgh Tandoori $22.95
Marinated bone-in chicken grilled to perfection.
Murgh Tikka $23.95
Boneless chicken kebabs and yogurt marinade.
Reshmi Kebab $23.95
Skewered spiced chicken rolls, green chili.
Martha Stewart’s Fav Murgh Malai $23.95
Skewered spring chicken and creamy cheese marinade. Must try.
Sheekh Kebab $25.95
Skewered lamb rolls, onions, and bell pepper. Must try.
Salmon Tikka $29.95
Grilled, creamy marinade, lemon
Jhinga Malai Kebab $29.95
Grilled shrimp and creamy marinade.
Kasundi Lamb Chops $32.95
Grilled in our tandoor and mustard marinade. Must try.
Lobster Ajwain Tikka $35.95
Creamy marinade and caraway seeds.
Tandoori Mix Grill $37.95
A melange of our favorite kababs.

PANEER (CHEESE)
Saag Paneer $21.95
Fresh pureed spinach and cheese.
Malai Kofta $21.95
Vegetable croquettes, cream, nuts, and raisins.
Methi Mutter Malai Panner $21.95
Green peas, cheese, fenugreek, cream, and tomato sauce. Must try.
Butter Paneer Masala $21.95
Skewered cheese, creamy tomato sauce, and coriander.
Paneer Khurchan $21.95
Grated paneer cheese and creamy tomato sauce.
Tawa Vegetable $21.95
Handpicked daily vegetables, paneer cheese, green masala.

VEGAN
Hingwali Dal Tadka $17.95
Yellow lentils, burnt garlic, and asafoetida.
Langarwali Dal $18.95
Medley of lentils, cumin, and dry red chili. Must try.
Chole Amritsari $18.95
Curried chickpeas and garden herbs.
Martha Stewart’s Fav Bhindi $20.95
Okra you would eat at your in-laws house.
Adrak Ki Gobi Keema $20.95
Mashed cauliflower, onion, and green chili. Must try.
Alu Gobi $20.95
Spiced potato and cauliflower.

VEGETARIAN
Bhoger Khichuri $18.95
A delicious one pot meal of rice, moong lentils, and vegetables. Must try.
Dal Malai Marke $18.95
Slow cooked black lentils, cream, and tomato.
Sarson Da Saag $19.95
Fresh pureed spinach, mustard greens, and ghee.
Lasoni Makai Saag $19.95
Pureed spinach, corn, and garlic.
Saag Sabji $19.95
Fresh pureed spinach and vegetables.
Baigan Bharta $19.95
Tandoor smoked eggplant and pounded spices.
Mushroom Mutter $19.95
Green peas, fresh tomato, onion, and ginger.
Katrika Tomato Curry $19.95
Stir fried eggplant, lentils, sambhar powder, curry leaves.
Savitri Amma’s Mor Kuzhambu $19.95
A buttermilk churn, okra, white pumpkin, and coconut. Must try.
Tanjavur Avial $19.95
Eclectic vegetables, coconut, yogurt, and curry leaves. Must try.

LAMB & GOAT
Lamb Madras $26.95
A hot coconut lamb curry from Chennai.
Keema Do Pyaza $26.95
Minced lamb, onion, bell pepper, fenugreek
Gosht Pasanda $26.95
Creamy cashew lamb curry and raisins.
Rogan Josh $26.95
Kashmiri yogurt lamb curry, saffron, and cardamom.
Saag Gosht $26.95
Spiced lamb, pureed spinach, and ginger.
Golbari Kosha Mangsho $30.95
Slow cooked bone-in goat curry from a Kolkata Pada. Must try.
Goat Chukka $30.95
A famouse Madurai style mutton pepper fry. Must try.
Nihari $30.95
A famous stew style goat preparation and wheat flour. Must try.

CHICKEN
Dak Bungalow Murgh Curry $23.95
Colonial Sahib's famous guest house chicken curry.
Melugu Kozhi Chettinad $23.95
Pepper chicken curry from the house of Chettiyars.
Mirapakaya Kozhi $23.95
Andhra dry coconut chicken and curry leaves.
Lata Shetty's Kori Gassi $24.95
Mangalorean coconut chicken curry and red masala. Must try.
Murgh Dhaniwal $24.95
A Kashmiri yogurt chicken, cumin, and fresh coriander.
Martha Stewart's Fav Butter Chicken $24.95
Creamy tomato sauce, bell pepper, fenugreek, and green chili.
Chicken Tikka Masala $24.95
Fenugreek infused creamy tomato sauce.
Murgh Korma $24.95
Skewered spring chicken and creamy nut sauce.

SHRIMP
Jhinga Bhuna Mirchawala $29.95
Wok tossed shrimp, onion, tomatoes, and green chili. Must try.
Aunt Murli's Shrimp Malai Curry $29.95
A classic Bengali preparation with coconut milk and garden herbs.
Allepy Konju Pappas $29.95
A kokum coconut shrimp curry.
Shrimp Tikka Masala $29.95
Fenugreek infused creamy tomato sauce.
Amritsari Jhinga Curry $29.95
Shrimp, fresh coriander, and pounded spices.

FISH
Allepy Fish Curry $29.95
A popular Kerala dish with green mangoes.
Fish Moilee $29.95
Turmeric infused coconut milk and lemon.
Malvani Fish Curry $29.95
Kokum infused coconut milk and pounded malvani masala.
Goan Fish Curry $29.95
A spicy paste of red chili, coconut with tamarind, onion
Meen Polichattu $29.95
Fried fish in a banana leaf, and house blend spice masala. Must try.

LOBSTER
Lata Shetty’s Lobster Ghee Roast $35.95
Pounded masala and clarified butter.
Lobster Tikka Masala $35.95
Creamy fenugreek infused tomato sauce and cashew. Must try.

Mughlai Biryani
Vegetable Paneer Biryani $21.95
A basmati rice preparation with whole spices, yogurt and garden herbs.
Chicken Biryani $23.95
A basmati rice preparation with whole spices, yogurt and garden herbs.
Lamb Biryani $25.95
A basmati rice preparation with whole spices, yogurt and garden herbs.
Bone-In-Goat Biryani $28.95
A basmati rice preparation with whole spices, yogurt and garden herbs.
Shrimp Biryani $29.95
A basmati rice preparation with whole spices, yogurt and garden herbs.

RICE
Brown Rice $5.95
Steamed.
Basmati Rice $7.50
Steamed.
Misti Rice $8.95
Sweet rice delicacy, cashew nuts, raisins, and ghee.
Ghee Peas Pulav Rice $10.95
Clarified butter, green peas, and cumin. Must try.
Martha Stewart’s Fav Lemon Rice $12.95
Roasted lentils and curry leaves. Must try.
Coconut Rice $12.95
Fried lentil wafers. Must try.

ROTIYAN
Malabar Parotta $6.95
Flaky thick pan grilled flour bread.
Chapati $6.95
Unleavened flatbread.
Lachha Paratha $6.95
Tandoor fired with butter.
Tandoori Roti $5.50
Whole wheat bread.
Butter Naan $5.50
Tandoor fired white flour bread and butter.
Martha Stewart’s Fav Onion Naan $6.50
Garlic Naan $6.50
Chili Onion Naan (Spicy) $6.50
Paneer Cheese Naan $7.50
Peshwari Naan $8.95
Dry fruits, nuts, paneer cheese

SAATH SAATH
Appalam $4.50
Tamilian style fried lentil wafers.
Pickle Spicy $4.95
Marinated lemon and mixed vegetable.
Aam Ki Chutney $6.50
Sweet mango, paanch poran, and black salt.
Thair Pachadi $6.50
Refreshing yogurt, coconut, okra, and tempered mustard seeds.
Martha Stewart’s Fav Raita $6.50
Refreshing yogurt and besan crunchies.

DESSERTS
Gulab Jamun $8.00
Milk balls, sugar syrup, and cardamom.
Kheer $9.00
Rice pudding and raisins.
Rasmalai $9.00
Creamy cottage cheese balls and nuts.
Vanilla Ice Cream $9.00
Vanilla, cherry
Chocolate Ice Cream $9.00
Chocolate, cherry
Malai Kulfi $10.00
Indian style milk ice cream

REFRESHING DRINKS
Sweet Lassi $9.00
Sweetened yogurt drink.
Salt Lassi $9.00
Salted yogurt drink, spices
Mango Lassi $10.00
Mango flavored yogurt drink.
Voss Bottled Water (800 ml) $9.00
Voss Bottled Water (375 ml) $5.00
Coke $4.00
Diet Coke $4.00
Ginger Ale $4.00
Sprite $4.00
Ice Tea $4.00

Chola Details

Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great tea selection

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Assistive hearing loop
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Halal food
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Crowd
Groups

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Paid parking garage
Paid street parking
Parking

Chola Photos

Chola Location

Chola

New York New York County New York East 58th Street

232 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

Chola Reviews

An average rating of ★4.3 from 754 user reviews.

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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Chola Coastal Indian Cuisine - Where every bite tells a story and every corner whispers elegance,where every dish is a work of art, and every moment is unforgettable.🫰🏻Everything from the grill to the plate smells and tastes delicious.We tried the Dak Bungalow Murgh Curry,Paneer Khurchan,Paneer Malai Tikka,Martha Stewart’s Favorite Murgh Malai,Chicken Biryani, andMartha Stewart’s Favorite Onion Naan.For dessert, we had the Kolkata Tomato Chutney—a refreshing sweet chutney with Panch Phoron and gulab jamun with rasmalai twist, beautifully decorated with chocolate sauce. The Murgh Malai was incredibly tender—definitely a must-try dish! The food was full of flavor and beautifully prepared. More than a meal, it's an experience.😌The cozy ambiance and friendly staff made it a memorable dining experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy flavorful Indian cuisine in a welcoming setting.😋 This is a restaurant where people from all backgrounds—not just Indians—can enjoy the food.Thank you for the amazing service and for making our dining experience truly wonderful. Everything—from the food to the attention we received—was perfect. We felt genuinely cared for and will definitely be coming back! ❤️
May 07 · T Bhattacharjee
Absolutely loved our meal at Chola! We had the chili shrimp, Mangalore fish fry, and the coastal chicken gassi — every dish was bursting with flavor and hit the perfect spice level. Bold, authentic coastal Indian cuisine done right. Highly recommend!
May 19 · Arya Adesh
great restaurant especially for midtown! service is very friendly and the naan is so good. the seating is also good but i wish the lighting were a bit less sleepy. overall i would come back
December 10 · Kelly He
I celebrated my birthday at this place and enjoyed myself thoroughly. Their meals offer taste experiences you can't find elsewhere. The team members show sincere interest in guests. Your check won't surprise you negatively. Exceptional quality.
July 04 · Michel Nee
Every time I visit Manhattan, I include Chola in my itinerary. It’s one of the best Indian restaurants on the island. It’s also important to mention that both the service and the atmosphere of the establishment are impeccable. Its location: unbeatable.
November 21 · Adriana Ortega