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Desi Galli
- 101 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016

Indian restaurant ★4.0 (75)·$10–20

101 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

4.0
I got the Aloo Gosht Roll and the Chicken Tikka Masala with medium spice. It was really good. The restaurant was not that packed when I got there around 5 pm. The food was great and very flavorful. My two items with 15% tip was $35.31.The Aloo Gosht was really good and I would recommend the chicken Tikka Masala. - Eson Zheng
Desi Galli Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
$10–20 per person Reported by 75 people$1–10$10–20$20–30$30–50

Desi Galli Introduce

An Authentic Taste of India in the Heart of NYC

New York City's culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of global flavors, and few cuisines capture the city's dynamic spirit quite like Indian food. Nestled in the bustling Murray Hill neighborhood, Desi Galli stands out as a true gem, offering a genuine taste of India's bustling streets right here on Lexington Avenue. More than just a restaurant, Desi Galli is an experience—a place where the vibrant spices, comforting aromas, and lively atmosphere transport you to the heart of Mumbai or Delhi. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the casual and inviting ambiance of a true street-side eatery, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a casual get-together with friends.

Desi Galli has carved out a loyal following among New Yorkers for its commitment to authentic, flavorful, and approachable Indian cuisine. It’s a place that celebrates the rich traditions of Indian street food, affectionately known as 'desi' food, with a menu that is both nostalgic for those who know the flavors and an exciting discovery for newcomers. They pride themselves on being an Asian-owned and women-owned business, which adds to the welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. The restaurant is particularly popular with a diverse crowd, including college students, families, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, who all appreciate its friendly, non-judgmental, and transgender-safe space. Whether you're a long-time fan of Indian food or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, Desi Galli promises a delicious and memorable experience.

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Location and Accessibility

Desi Galli is conveniently located at 101 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA. Situated in the heart of the Murray Hill area, it’s just a stone's throw from the vibrant Korean Town ('K-Town') district, making it a central and easy-to-reach destination for many. The location on Lexington Avenue is well-known for its wide array of restaurants and shops, drawing in both local residents and visitors who are exploring the city on foot. For those relying on public transportation, the restaurant is easily accessible via multiple subway lines and bus routes, making a spontaneous visit or a planned meal a breeze.

The restaurant's accessibility is a key highlight, as it features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. While it's located in a bustling urban area with limited on-street parking, its central position is ideal for those walking around and exploring the neighborhood. The atmosphere inside is casual and welcoming, a stark contrast to the lively streets outside. Upon entry, you’ll find a cozy counter, with seating conveniently located in the basement, providing a comfortable and intimate space to dine.

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Services Offered

Desi Galli offers a wide range of services to fit every New Yorker's busy schedule and dining preference.

  • Dine-in: Enjoy a casual and comfortable dining experience in their cozy, basement seating area. It’s perfect for a relaxing meal with friends or family.
  • Takeout: For those on the go, their quick and efficient takeout service allows you to grab your favorite dishes and enjoy them at home or on the go.
  • Curbside Pickup: A convenient option for a seamless pickup experience without having to leave your vehicle.
  • Delivery: Stay in and have the delicious flavors of Desi Galli brought right to your door. Their delivery service ensures you can enjoy their food from anywhere in the city.
  • Catering: Desi Galli also offers catering services, making them a great choice for parties, office lunches, or any special event.
  • Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is particularly helpful for planning group dinners or ensuring a spot during peak hours.

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Features and Highlights

Desi Galli distinguishes itself with several key features that make it a standout choice for authentic Indian food in NYC.

  • Great Tea Selection: They are known for their excellent selection of teas, particularly their authentic Masala Chai, which is the perfect complement to any meal.
  • Wide Range of Offerings: The menu caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences, including comfort food, late-night bites, small plates, and an extensive selection of vegan and vegetarian options. Their Halal food offerings are also a major highlight for many diners.
  • Authentic Street Eats and Kathi Rolls: The restaurant’s specialty lies in its "Street Eats" menu, featuring classics like Pani Puri and Samosa Chaat, and their famous "Kathi Rolls" (often called Indian burritos). These rolls, like the Aloo Gosht Roll or the Chicken Tikka Roll, are a fan favorite and are known for being both delicious and incredibly filling.
  • Casual and Inclusive Atmosphere: The atmosphere is described as casual and welcoming to everyone. It's a place where everyone feels comfortable, whether you're a college student grabbing a quick bite or a family enjoying a meal together.
  • Variety of Dining Options: Beyond just lunch and dinner, Desi Galli offers counter service and desserts, allowing for a quick meal or a sweet treat after.
  • Convenient Payment Methods: They make it easy to pay with credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, providing a hassle-free checkout experience.

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Contact Information

For reservations, takeout orders, or general inquiries, you can reach Desi Galli at the following contact points:

  • Address: 101 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA
  • Phone: (212) 683-2292

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What is Worth Choosing

What truly sets Desi Galli apart is its dedication to bringing the vibrant and diverse flavors of India's street food culture to New York City. The restaurant’s menu is a carefully curated journey through some of India's most beloved dishes, from savory street snacks to hearty curry bowls. The Kathi Rolls are an absolute must-try. These wraps, stuffed with flavorful fillings like Chicken Tikka, Aloo Paneer, or even Beyond Meat, are a perfect choice for a satisfying and easy-to-eat meal. Many customers rave about the Aloo Gosht Roll, praising its rich and savory flavor.

For those who prefer a more traditional sit-down meal, the Curry Bowls are a fantastic option. The Chicken Tikka Masala and Saag Paneer are particularly popular, offering classic, comforting flavors that are both aromatic and deeply satisfying. The Biryani Bowls, with options like Veggie, Chicken, and Paneer Tikka, are also highly recommended for a full and flavorful meal. The restaurant excels at providing flavorful dishes with customizable spice levels, ensuring every diner can enjoy their food exactly as they like it.

Beyond the main courses, the "Street Eats" menu is where Desi Galli truly shines. The Samosa Chaat and Pani Puri are great small plates to share or enjoy as a delicious appetizer. While some experimental items like the Maggi Samosa might be hit or miss, the core menu, especially the Kathi rolls and classic curries, receives consistent praise for its quality and authentic taste.

Another key reason to choose Desi Galli is its incredible value. While some might find the combo deals a bit pricier, ordering individual items or their signature Kathi rolls offers an excellent and filling meal for a very reasonable price, making it a great option for budget-conscious diners and students.

Ultimately, Desi Galli is a destination for anyone in New York looking for an authentic, friendly, and delicious Indian dining experience. Its convenient location, wide range of services, and genuinely flavorful food make it a top contender in the city’s bustling food scene.

Desi Galli Menu

  • STREET EATS

  • Pani Puri $9.00

    Crispy shells stuffed with spiced potato + chickpeas, ready to dunk in tangy mint cilantro water. Vegan

  • Samosa Chaat $10.00

    Samosa smashed and smothered in chutneys, chickpeas, creamy yogurt drizzle, crunchy onions and tomatoes.

  • Palak Patte Ki Chaat $10.00

    Crispy spinach fritters layered with chutneys, chickpeas, creamy yogurt drizzle, crunchy onions and tomatoes Crunch. Cream. Spice. GF

  • Dhokla Chaat $10.00

    Fluffy, savory chickpea cake drowned in chutneys, sev, coconut, and street cart swagger.

  • Aloo Papri Chaat $10.00

    Crackly wafers, saucy spiced potatoes, cooling yogurt, crunchy onions and tomatoes. GF

  • Classic Samosas $7.00

    Two Flaky pastry stuffed with spiced potatoes + peas. The OG. Vegan

  • Vada Pav $10.00

    Two spiced potato fritters stuffed in buttered buns with garlic chutney. The Mumbai burger.

  • Pav Bhaji $12.00

    Slow-cooked veggie mash served with toasted buns for scooping. Satisfying. Iconic.

  • KATHI ROLLS (INDIAN BURRITOS)

  • Chicken Tikka Roll $9.50

    Yogurt-marinated grilled chicken wrapped in your choice of flaky flatbread. A street food staple.

  • Chicken Korma Roll $9.50

    Slow-cooked chicken with warm korma spices, onion, and tomato. Creamy, rich, and addictive.

  • Aloo Gosht Roll $10.50

    Tender spiced lamb + potatoes in a handheld feast. Meaty, earthy, and deeply satisfying.

  • Aloo Chana Roll $8.50

    Spiced chickpeas + potatoes, sauced up and rolled tight. Vegan comfort food, desi style. Vegan.

  • Aloo Paneer Roll $8.50

    Cheesy, cumin-kissed potatoes with grated paneer. TIME OUT's best Indian sandwich.

  • Beyond Meat Roll $10.50

    Plant-based strips stir-fried with veggies and spice. Bold flavor with a conscious twist. Vegan.

  • DIRTY FRIES & HOUSE SPECIALS

  • Desi Poutine $10.00

    Fries + tikka gravy + shredded paneer = Indian poutine dreams come true. GF

  • Chili Paneer Samosas $10.00

    Two crispy samosas loaded with Indo-Chinese paneer, peppers, and onions. Comes with sweet-spicy dip.

  • Chili Chicken $13.00

    Fried chicken, bell peppers and onions tossed in tangy, fiery chili sauce. Indo-Chinese street food heat.

  • Chili Idli $13.00

    Mini crispy rice cakes, bell peppers and onions soaked in spicy chili sauce. Wild texture, wild flavor. Vegan

  • CURRY BOWLS

  • Yellow Dal $14.00

    Golden lentils tempered with cumin + red chili. Creamy, earthy, deeply comforting. Vegan. GF

  • Saag Paneer $17.00

    Silky spinach cooked down with cubes of soft Indian cheese. Popeye could never. GF

  • Paneer Tikka Masala $18.00

    Grilled paneer chunks swimming in creamy tomato sauce. Like butter chicken, but make it cheese. GF

  • Chicken Tikka Masala $18.00

    Char-grilled chicken in our famous creamy tikka sauce. The crowd-pleaser. GF

  • Chicken Bihari Curry $18.00

    Marinated chicken in a smoky onion gravy. Rich, savory, and full of flavor. GF

  • Mommy's Chicken Curry $17.00

    Classic home-style chicken curry in a tomato-onion gravy. Comfort, bottled. GF

  • Aloo Gosht Curry $19.00

    Australian lamb + potatoes slow-cooked in spicy curry. Sunday supper in a bowl. GF

  • BIRYANI BOWLS

  • Veggie Biryani $12.50

    Spiced seasonal vegetables layered with fluffy rice. Comfort in every forkful. GF

  • Paneer Tikka Biryani $14.50

    Grilled cubes of paneer folded into spiced rice. Creamy and craveable. GF

  • Chicken Biryani $14.50

    Slow-simmered spiced chicken buried in saffron-scented rice. Fire. GF

  • Aloo Gosht Biryani $16.50

    Tender lamb, potatoes, and basmati rice come together in perfect harmony. GF

  • SIDES & ADD-ONS

  • Masala Fries $6.00

    Crispy fries dusted with chaat masala. GF

  • Kacumber Salad $8.00

    Cucumber, tomato & onion tossed in lemon vinaigrette. GF

  • Tikka Gravy (8oz) $8.00

    The magic sauce behind poutine. GF

  • Naan $3.00

    Fluffy, ghee-brushed flatbread-hot and ready.

  • Paratha $3.00

    Flaky, buttery griddle bread.

  • Gluten-Free Paratha $3.50

    Made with chickpea flour. GF

  • Basmati Rice $4.00

    Long-grain, fragrant, and perfectly cooked. GF

  • DRINKS

  • Mango Lassi $6.00

    Sweet mangoes and creamy yogurt

  • Strawberry Lassi $6.00

    Sweet mangoes and creamy yogurt

  • Masala Chai $3.00
  • Desi Brew (Indian Coffee) $3.00
  • Indian Soft Drinks $4.00
  • Indian Juices $4.00
  • Soft Drinks $2.50
  • DESSERTS

  • Gulab Jamun Cheesecake $5.00

    Perfect fusion of East meets West.

  • Rasmalai $5.00

    Three cheese dumplings in a sweet milk flavored with saffron.

  • Gulab Jamun $5.00

    Three soft, syrup-soaked dough balls that melt in your mouth.

Desi Galli Details

  • From the business

  • Identifies as Asian-owned
  • Identifies as women-owned
  • Service options

  • Curbside pickup
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Great tea selection
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Offerings

  • Comfort food
  • Halal food
  • Late-night food
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Dining options

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Counter service
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Amenities

  • Restroom
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Crowd

  • College students
  • Family-friendly
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safespace
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • Good for kids

Desi Galli Photos

Desi Galli Picture 1Desi Galli Picture 2Desi Galli Picture 3Desi Galli Picture 4Desi Galli Picture 5Desi Galli Picture 6Desi Galli Picture 7Desi Galli Picture 8Desi Galli Picture 9Desi Galli Picture 10

Desi Galli Location

Desi Galli

101 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Desi Galli Reviews

An average rating of ★4 from 391 user reviews.

kathi rollrollschicken tikka masalacateringvada pavwrappoutinegluten freechatpav bhaji

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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