Haandi: A Taste of Authentic Pakistani & Indian Cuisine in Murray Hill

Haandi Introduce

Located in the heart of "Curry Hill" on Lexington Avenue, Haandi is a go-to spot for those craving authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine. This casual and cozy establishment offers a no-frills approach to dining, focusing on what truly matters: delicious, flavorful food. Haandi's reputation is built on its robust menu of traditional dishes, from savory curries and sizzling tandoori specialties to an all-day breakfast that features their renowned Halwa Puri. It's a place that attracts a diverse crowd, including a large number of taxi drivers, which is often a sign of a truly authentic and well-loved local spot. The food is often served from a counter, reminiscent of a traditional "dhaba" or roadside eatery, and is known for being hot, plentiful, and packed with the bold flavors of the region. While some reviews note a simple, no-frills atmosphere, the focus on the food and its authentic taste is a consistent point of praise. Haandi is a place where you can get a quick, satisfying bite or settle in for a full meal. The restaurant's commitment to offering a wide range of Halal, vegetarian, and vegan options makes it an inclusive choice for many different diets. Whether you're a local seeking a taste of home or a tourist looking for an authentic and affordable culinary adventure, Haandi provides a genuine and memorable experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Pakistani and Indian cooking.

Haandi is conveniently situated at 113 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, in the bustling Murray Hill neighborhood. Its location is a significant advantage, placing it in the epicenter of the city's South Asian food scene, often affectionately known as "Curry Hill." This area is a culinary destination in itself, making Haandi an easy stop for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is highly accessible via public transportation. The 6 subway line is just a short walk away, with stops at both 28th Street and 33rd Street. For those coming from further afield, a number of bus lines run along Lexington Avenue and nearby 3rd Avenue, providing a seamless journey. The central location makes it a great choice for a quick lunch or dinner, especially for those working in the area. Parking in this part of Manhattan can be challenging, but both free and paid street parking options are available in the vicinity, though they require patience and a bit of luck to find. The restaurant's easy-to-spot storefront on Lexington Avenue makes it simple to locate. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, and it is a safe and welcoming space for diverse crowds, including families, groups, and individuals, as well as being designated as a transgender safe space and LGBTQ+ friendly. Its accessibility and central location contribute to its status as a local staple.

Haandi provides a wide array of services to meet the needs of its diverse clientele, from a quick meal on the go to a catered event.

Dine-in: The restaurant offers a casual seating area for guests who wish to enjoy their meal on-site.
Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to eat at home, Haandi offers convenient takeout and delivery services, including curbside pickup and no-contact delivery, making it easy to enjoy their food anywhere in the city.
Catering: With a menu that includes half trays of chicken biryani and large quantities of appetizers and desserts, Haandi is well-equipped for catering events and large group gatherings.
Onsite Services: The restaurant offers a counter-style service where food is prepared and presented, allowing for a quick and efficient ordering process.
All-Day Dining: Haandi's menu is available all day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they even offer late-night food options.

Haandi is celebrated for several key features and highlights that set it apart in the crowded New York City food scene.

Authentic Pakistani and Indian Cuisine: The food is the main draw, with customers praising its authentic flavors and spices. Dishes like Halwa Puri, Hyderabadi Haleem, and Mutton Karahi are frequently highlighted as must-tries.
Great Value: The restaurant is well-known for being affordable and offering generous portion sizes. One reviewer noted paying $22 for two combos and two drinks, with so much food they couldn't finish it. This value-for-money proposition is a significant draw.
Halal Food: Haandi offers a wide selection of Halal dishes, making it a popular choice for those seeking this dietary option.
Diverse Menu: The menu is expansive and includes a variety of selections from different parts of the region, from tandoori specialties and rice dishes to vegetable curries and an all-day breakfast menu. It also features a "Today's Specials" section with unique offerings.
Fast Service: Haandi is praised for its quick and efficient service. Food is often prepared and served in a timely manner, which is a major benefit for people on the go.
Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant is described as casual and cozy, and it attracts a wide crowd, including college students, families, and tourists. It is also noted as being a "transgender safe space" and "LGBTQ+ friendly," demonstrating its inclusive environment.
Great Tea Selection: Haandi offers a great tea selection, including traditional options like "Doodh Patti," which is a popular and comforting choice for many.

For more information, to place a takeout or delivery order, or to check on the latest specials, you can use the following contact details.

Address: 113 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Phone: (212) 685-5200

What is worth choosing Haandi for is its commitment to authentic, flavorful, and affordable Pakistani and Indian cuisine. While some reviews mention issues with the atmosphere and service, the overwhelming sentiment from many loyal customers is that the food itself is worth it. One customer's review encapsulates this perfectly: "The FOOD is all that matters!" The Halwa Puri is particularly noteworthy, with one reviewer exclaiming, "OH MY GOODNESS- THE HALWA PURI IS SOOOOOO GOOD!" It is a place that has built its reputation on the quality of its dishes, which many consider to be on par with home-cooked meals from the region. The sheer variety on the menu, from classic curries to unique specialties like Nihari and Haleem, means there's always something new and exciting to try. The affordability and generous portions also make it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal that won't break the bank. Haandi's status as a go-to spot for locals, particularly its popularity among taxi drivers, is a testament to its authenticity and value. For those who prioritize a truly authentic culinary experience over a fancy dining atmosphere, Haandi is a top recommendation. It is a true taste of Pakistan and India in the heart of New York, a place where the food speaks for itself and keeps people coming back for more.

Haandi Menu

All Day Breakfast
Halwa Puri $12.99
Vegetarian. Includes 2 puris, halwa, Channay and achari aloo. (Serving for one person).
Hard Boiled Egg $1.00
(One). Hard boiled egg.
Desi Omelette $7.99
Egg omelette fried up Dhaba style.

Desserts
Rasgulla (2 Pieces) $3.99
Spongy, white dessert of sweetened cheese balls in sweet cardamom syrup.
Gulab Jamun $1.99
Deep fried milk ball made with ghee. (One piece).
Mini Cham Chams (15 Pieces) $5.99
Sweet, irresistible, bite-sized mini rasgulas or cham chams, perfect for sharing. Made with cheese, sugar, rose water and soaked in a cardamom sugar syrup.
Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa) 12oz $12.99
Carrot-based sweet dessert pudding made with milk, sugar, khoya, cardamom and nuts.
Mejdool Dates Large Box $8.99
Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa) 8oz $6.99
Carrot-based sweet dessert pudding made with milk, sugar, khoya, cardamom and nuts.
Rasmalai $4.99
Sweet clotted cream patties with cardamom served in sweet cold milk. Two pieces.
Jalebi Box $8.99
South Asian dessert made by deep-frying a flour batter in Circular shapes, then soaked in a delicious sugary syrup.
Halwa $5.99
Made from a base of semolina and cooked with ghee, sugar, cardamom and saffron. So sweet and so good. (Will not contain nuts unless specified) Color may be light pink or natural semolina at times.
Sheer Khurma $4.99
Festival vermicelli pudding prepared by Muslims on Eid ul-Fitr. Made with fine vermicelli, milk, dates, nuts and sugar.
Mejdool Dates Small Box $4.99
Kheer $4.99
Rice pudding made with boiling milk, sugar, and rice for 3-4 hours. One serving.

Chicken Selections (served without rice or bread)
Achar Chicken $13.99
Chicken cooked in curry sauce with spices and pickles.
Karahi Chicken $13.99
Chicken cooked with ginger, tomatoes, spices in ghee. (Clarified butter).
Keema Tawa $12.99
Minced meat cooked with onions, tomatoes and blend of spices on hot plate.
Chicken Jalfrezi $13.99
Chicken and seasonal vegetables, stir-fried and served in a thick spicy sauce that includes green chilli peppers.
Hyderabadi Haleem $15.99
Savory boneless chicken stew cooked with a variety of mixed wheat, lentil, spices and herbs on low heat for 3-4 hours.
Chicken Qorma $13.99
Chicken cooked in thick curry sauce and herbs.
Chicken Makhni $12.99
Boneless chicken cooked in thick gravy with cream.
Daal Chicken (Lentil Stew With Chicken) $13.99
Hearty dish composed of lentils, chicken, garlic, tomatoes, ginger slow slow cooked and stewed.

Appetizers
Chicken Samosa $2.49
Spiced ground chicken with cilantro, green chiles in a savory shell.
Shami Kabab $2.99
One piece minced meat cutlet mixed with lentils, herbs, and spices.
Lamb Shank $13.99
Chilli Pakora Stuffed With Aloo (1 Piece) $2.99
Deep fried green chili with a potato filling.
Steam Roast Chicken Leg $6.99
Slow roasted chicken quarter leg steamed in Pakistani spices.
Aloo Samosa $1.99
Crispy pastry turnover filled with minced potatoes and light spices. (One piece).
Dahi Baray / Dahi Vada 12 Oz $9.99
Chaat made of fried dough balls in a yogurt and chutney sauce.
Fried Fish (Sea Bass) $12.99
Boneless sea bass fish, fried in a Pakistani spice batter.
Aloo Tiki $1.99
One piece mashed potato marinated in light spice and herbs.
Chicken Puff Pastry $3.99
Baked savory and buttery pastry filled with chicken.
Pakora $9.99
Fried mix vegetables fritters. A pound.
Dahi Phulki (Mini Gram Flour Dumplings In Yogurt Sauce) (8 Oz) $6.99
Gram flour dumplings mixed with onions, tomato and cilantro in a mild yogurt sauce. (8 oz)
Chapli Kabab $3.99
Minced chicken with tomatoes, onions, herbs and spices, shaped like a patty made on a tawa grill. (One piece).
Gol Gappe / Pani Puri (7 Pieces) $8.99
(Gol gappe, pani puri) South Asian street food compromising of spicy dipping water, semolina shells and a potato/chickpea filling.

Beverages
Water Bottle $1.49
OG Poland Spring.
Roohafza With Milk Gallon (For 6 People) $13.99
Rose flavored, sweet, refreshing and cold roohafza with milk enough for 6 people.
Tea $1.99
Shezan Mango Juice $1.99
Mango juice box. Relive your childhood.
Rooh Afza With Milk $3.99
16 oz cup made with pink rose syrup and milk, refreshing summer drink of the east.
Soda $1.50
Choose your drink.
Lahori Lassi $4.99
Sweet Lassi $4.99
Blended yogurt, milk, ice and sugar.
Doodh Patti $2.99
Milk, sugar, boiled with orange pekoe tea.
Mango Lassi Gallon (For 6 People) $24.99
Vegetarian. Mango lassi gallon enough for 6 people.
Mango Shake $5.99
Mini Rooh Afza Bottle $2.99
8 fl oz refreshing rose flavored syrup that can be mixed into water or milk. Ramadan favorite.
Mango Lassi $4.99
Blend of yogurt, sugar, and mango.

Extra Items
Veal (Young Beef) Biryani $16.99
Extra long grain basmati rice cooked with veal(young beef), a blend of masalas, spices and herbs.
Chana Chaat 12 Oz $8.99
Garbanzo chickpeas chaat made with tomatoes, onions and spices, served cold.

Haandi Specials
Sarson Ka Saag (Little Bitter Taste) $11.99
Mustard greens cooked with ghee, herbs and spices.

🌺Today’s Specials 🌺
Fancy Woven Medjool Date Basket $11.99
Cute baskets filled with dates and wrapped in cellophane for gifting or eating yourself.
Fall Of The Bone Lamb Shank $13.99
Marinated Lamb shank with yogurt and a special blend of Pakistani spices Steam Roasted for 3-4 hours.
Chana Chaat 12 Oz $9.99
Garbanzo chickpeas chaat made with tomatoes, onions and spices, served cold
Whole Roasted Chicken $19.95
Whole chicken with mild Pakistani and Indian spices steamed and roasted until tender. Available on Thanksgiving Day!
Mutton Pulao (Lamb) $13.99
Basmati rice cooked with mutton in a broth and special blend of spices.
Fruit Chaat 12 Oz $10.99
A Southeast Asian take on fruit salad. Made with seasonal fruit, splash of citrus juice and chaat masala.
Shahi Beef Haleem $13.99
Savory boneless beef stew cooked with variety of mixed lentils on low heat for 3-4 hours. (One serving).
Sheer Khurma $4.99
Festival vermicelli pudding prepared by Muslims on Eid ul-Fitr. Made with fine vermicelli, milk, dates, nuts and sugar.

Beef and Goat Selections (served without rice or bread)
Beef Paya $13.99
A beef bone broth made from cow trotters
Paya (Bone Broth) $14.99
Slow cooked, super addictive, and delicious . A Punjabi specialty. (Caution: natural bone marrow may make fingers sticky for a few minutes).
Beef Masala $14.99
Tender beef chunks cooked in a thick curry sauce.
Nihari $14.99
Slow-cooked beef stew, with bone marrow. Beef Nihari.
Shahi Beef Haleem $13.99
Savory boneless beef stew cooked with variety of mixed lentils on low heat for 3-4 hours. (One serving).
Lamb Curry $14.99
A rich and aromatic stew curry with braised lamb.
Mutton Karahi $14.99
Lamb cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic sauce in ghee. (Clarified butter).

Snacks
Gol Gappe / Pani Puri (7 Pieces) $8.99
(Gol gappe, pani puri) South Asian street food compromising of spicy dipping water, semolina shells and a potato/chickpea filling.
Slanty Chips $1.29
Vegetarian. Classic Pakistani chips (small bag).

Tandoori Breads/ Breads
Tandoori Roti $1.99
Whole wheat bread made in tandoor.
Aloo Paratha $6.99
Whole wheat bread stuffed with potatoes.
Garlic Naan $5.99
Leavened white flour bread with garlic made in clay tandoor.
Lacha Paratha $3.99
Layered whole wheat bread made in tandoor.
Naan $2.99
Leavened white flour bread made in tandoor. (One piece).
Naan With Sesame Seeds (Till) And Butter $3.49
Leavened white flour bread made in tandoor with sesame seeds and topped off with butter.
Keema (Meat) Naan $6.99
Leavened white flour bread stuffed with minced meat and baked in a tandoor oven.
Puri (1 Piece) $3.99
Deep-fried bread made out of whole wheat flour. Usually eaten with Halwa, Chana or Achari Aloo.

Rice Specialties
Chicken Pulao $12.99
Basmati rice and chicken cooked in chicken broth with aromatics and spices.
Mouthwatering Mutton Pulao $14.99
Basmati rice cooked with lamb in a broth and special blend of spices.
Plain Basmati Rice $3.99
Steamed basmati rice.
Lamb Pulao $13.99
Basmati rice cooked with mutton in a broth and special blend of spices, carrots and raisins.
1/2 Tray Chicken Biryani $79.99
Basmati rice cooked with chicken, a blend of spices and herbs. (Serves 8-10 persons).
Veal (Young Beef) Biryani $16.99
Extra long grain basmati rice cooked with veal(young beef), a blend of masalas, spices and herbs.
Chicken Biryani $17.99
Extra long grain basmati rice cooked with chicken, a blend of masalas, spices and herbs.
Brown Rice $6.99
Brown basmati rice.

Sauces / Chutneys / Condiments
Large Regular Yogurt Green Chutney $5.99
The og mint, coriander and yogurt green chutney. (12 oz large container).
Plum Chutney (Sauce) $4.99
Gluten free, vegan. Sweet plum sauce (small serving) to accompany grilled items or eaten eaten by itself (8 oz container).
Chili Garlic Sauce Glass Bottle $6.99
Vegetarian. Savory and sweet dip to accompany samosas, pakoras, kebabs, patties, anything you like.
Apricot Chutney $4.99
Sweet apricot chutney sauce. (8 oz container).
Small Regular Yogurt Green Chutney $3.99
Mint, coriander and yogurt green chutney. (8 oz small container).
Achar (Mixed Pickle) $4.99
Mixed vegetables pickled in oil and Pakistani spices. (8 oz container).

Tandoori Specialties
Beef Bihari Kabab $13.99
Tender chunks of beef marinated in Pakistani spices and cooked in a tandoor oven.
Goat Chops (3 Pieces) $14.99
Chops marinated with herbs, spices and yogurt cooked in tandoor.
Tandoori Chicken Wings (6 Pieces) $12.99
South Asian take on chicken wings, tandoori chicken wings marinated in yogurt, spices, then cooked to perfection with crispy skin and juiciness in a tandoor oven. (6 pieces).
Chapli Kabab $3.99
Minced chicken with tomatoes, onions, herbs and spices, shaped like a patty made on a tawa grill. (One piece).
Lamb Kabab (1 Piece) $3.99
Minced lamb cooked with a special blend of spices in a tandoor oven.
Chicken Tikka With Bone (6 Pieces) $16.99
Chicken with bone marinated in spices and yogurt cooked in tandoor.
Chicken Tikka(Boneless) $12.99
Chicken white meat cooked in a clay oven with special herbs and spices.
Tandoori Chicken Quarter $5.99
Chicken leg marinated in spices and yogurt cooked in tandoor oven.
Beef Kabab (1 Piece) $3.99
Minced beef cooked with a special blend of spices in a tandoor oven.
Chicken Bihari Kabab (6 Pieces) $11.99
Chicken pieces marinated in a special blend of spices and cooked in a tandoor.
Chicken Seekh Kabab (1 Piece) $2.99
Minced meat seasoned with herbs and spices cooked in tandoor oven (one piece).

Vegetable Selections (served without rice or bread)
Aloo Palak $11.99
Potatoes and spinach cooked in spices.
Achari Aloo (Pickled Potatoes) $11.99
Tangy potatoes seasoned with a blend of spices and pickles for a zesty, flavorful experience.
Eggplant With Potatoes $11.99
Eggplant with potatoes (aloo baingan).
Aloo Gobi $11.99
Potatoes and cauliflower cooked in spices.
Mash Daal $11.99
White urid lentils cooked in butter and spices.
Tarka Daal (Fry) $11.99
Vegan. Split yellow lentils cooked in butter and spices.
Sarson Ka Saag (Little Bitter Taste) $11.99
Mustard greens cooked with ghee, herbs and spices.
Curry Pakora $11.99
Vegetarian. Tangy and flavorful Punjabi Kadhi pakora with deep fried vegetable pakoras (fritters) dunked in a savory yogurt based curry.
Bhindi Masala $11.99
Okra cooked with special spices and herbs.
Mixed Vegetables $11.99
Cooked with fresh spices.
Chana Masala (Lahori Channay) $11.99
Vegan. Chick peas cooked in herbs and spices.
Aloo Mutter $11.99
Potatoes cooked with green peas in special sauce.

Haandi Details

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

Highlights
Great tea selection
Sports

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Comfort food
Halal food
Late-night food
Organic dishes
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Crowd
College students
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free street parking
Paid street parking
Parking

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Haandi Photos

Haandi Location

Haandi

New York New York County New York Lexington Avenue

113 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Haandi Reviews

An average rating of ★3.9 from 1400 user reviews.

buffetto gomicrowavenihariplatterhaleempraydrivershalwa puricollege

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Total Disappointment – Not Worth VisitingWe took a bus all the way from Times Square expecting a good meal, but this place was a complete letdown. The food was served cold, even after being microwaved. The place was dirty, the staff had a terrible attitude, and on top of everything, they overcharged us. If the food had at least been tasty, it might’ve been somewhat worth it — but it was completely bland. Definitely not worth the time, money, or effort. Would not recommend.
August 22 · Acha Gujjar (Good Milkman)
OH MY GOODNESS- THE HALWA PURI IS SOOOOOO GOOD! ANC THE CHOLE WAS MADE OF PERFECTION. although some people say the atmosphere is dirty, The FOOD is all that matters!
August 17 · Jhon Williams
Reasonable and very tasty food a true desi taste feels like ho e away from home
June 25 · Mohsin Ali
Kind of mid. Food is OK, but not fresh or hot. Ordered a coke and it was lukewarm. The staff were nice and helpful. The water is left out stagnant in open containers with cups. At a glance the place doesn't look clean from the outside, so not sure what it would look like inside. Has a very rustic, working-class atmosphere, but not in a clean way. For the price I would say you can get better food elsewhere.
July 06 · Jin Kim
Was in Lexington and was craving desi food . .. have gone to haandi a long time ago and went back .. there are some tables inside to sit and dine . When you enter you see all the meat and veggies displayed and it looks inviting :) service is good. Pricing is good too. Atmosphere was average . Platter was about 15-16 $ and priced ok.Food looked fresh . The platter has naan , rice , veggie and a meat (optional)… tastes very good . It tasted like home food . Chole was super awesome . Went well with naan and rice . The meat curry was also super duper good . Right spice level and had perfect flavor … food taste is 5/5 but because of overall atmosphere , I had to give them a 4 star . ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 16 · Raj S