Chola NYC: A Culinary Symphony of Regional Indian Flavors

Tucked away in Midtown East’s bustling food district, Chola NYC is a refined destination for anyone looking to explore India’s rich regional cuisines under one sophisticated roof. Celebrated for its elegant presentation, inventive recipes, and impeccable hospitality, Chola transcends the idea of typical Indian fare with a bold, curated menu that celebrates both coastal delicacies and inland classics.

With a Yelp rating of 4.3/5, Chola is frequented by NYC's corporate crowd, food critics, Indian expats, and culinary explorers alike. The name “Chola” evokes the legacy of India’s ancient Chola dynasty, known for its contributions to art, architecture, and cuisine—and the restaurant lives up to that legacy.

Ambience and Setting

Chola exudes understated luxury. The interiors are characterized by:

• Dark wood paneling

• Golden-hued lighting

• Intricate Indian artwork

• Soft instrumental Indian music

The combination makes for a warm, inviting space that’s equally suited for business lunches, family gatherings, or elegant dinners. With linen-draped tables and an attentive waitstaff, Chola offers a fine-dining experience without being pretentious.

The Culinary Concept

What makes Chola special is its dedication to presenting authentic dishes from India’s many states—from the spice-laden curries of the North to the coconut-based stews of the South, and from coastal seafood preparations to Indo-Portuguese fusions.

Unlike restaurants that stick to Punjabi staples or street food, Chola curates from across India’s culinary landscape, which makes it a standout for diners eager to go beyond the basics.

Signature Dishes

Here’s a look at the must-try dishes that define Chola’s brilliance:

1. Kosha Mangsho (Bengal)

Tender pieces of goat slow-cooked in a traditional Bengali-style onion and spice gravy. It’s deeply flavorful and served with luchi (fried bread).

2. Meen Moilee (Kerala)

A southern coastal dish of fish simmered in a turmeric and coconut milk sauce, enhanced with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

3. Lal Maas (Rajasthan)

A fiery red lamb curry made with mathania chilies. Chola’s version maintains the heat but balances it with refined flavors.

4. Awadhi Dum Biryani (Lucknow)

Fragrant rice layered with marinated meats or vegetables, slow-cooked in sealed pots to absorb the aromas of saffron, rose water, and ghee.

5. Dakshini Chicken Curry

A southern-style chicken curry with a base of black pepper, curry leaves, and roasted coconut paste.

Each dish is plated beautifully and accompanied with options like kulchas, malabar parathas, and biryani rice, all made in-house.

Vegetarian Offerings

Chola offers a robust vegetarian menu, perfect for both traditional and vegan diners.

Popular choices include:

• Baingan Bharta: Roasted eggplant mash with garlic, tomatoes, and mustard oil

• Paneer Makhani: Homemade cottage cheese in a creamy tomato-butter sauce

• Vegetable Chettinad: A spicy southern-style curry made with star anise, black pepper, and coconut

Seafood Specials

Seafood lovers are in for a treat. Chola’s coastal roots shine in dishes like:

• Jhinga Kalimirch – Black pepper shrimp sautéed in ghee

• Goan Fish Curry – Tangy curry with kokum, tamarind, and fresh catch of the day

• Tandoori Salmon – Marinated in yogurt and grilled with fennel and ajwain

Weekend Brunch Buffet

One of Chola’s biggest draws is its lavish weekend brunch buffet, featuring:

• Over 20 regional Indian items

• Chaat counters with live stations

• Fresh naan and dosa stations

• A dessert bar with gulab jamun, payasam, and more

The buffet is a favorite among locals and tourists, and it offers a great way to experience the variety Chola is known for.

Desserts & Drinks

Finish off your meal with:

Desserts:

• Rasmalai

• Kesar Pista Kulfi

• Payasam (South Indian rice pudding)

Beverages:

• Mango Lassi

• Fresh Lime Soda (Sweet/Salted)

• Masala Chai

• Full bar with wine and Indian-inspired cocktails

The bar menu features selections curated to complement Indian spices—think Riesling, Malbec, and spiced gin-based drinks.

Service and Hospitality

The staff at Chola provide white-glove service with warm Indian hospitality. The servers are well-versed in the ingredients and origins of each dish and can guide guests unfamiliar with regional Indian cuisines.

Dietary needs—vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free—are handled with care, and the kitchen is happy to make adjustments where possible.

Events and Catering

Chola offers private dining spaces and catering for:

• Corporate functions

• Weddings & receptions

• Cultural celebrations

Menus can be customized, and the staff provide full-service event planning including servers, chefs, and décor on request.

Date Opened

Chola has been serving New Yorkers since the early 2000s, gradually evolving into one of the city’s premier Indian fine-dining destinations.

Location and Directions

📍 Address: 232 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022
🚇 Nearest Subway: Lexington Ave/59th St (N, R, W, 4, 5, 6 lines)
🚗 Parking: Several parking garages available within 1 block

Budget

While Chola falls under premium dining, it offers excellent value for a luxury experience:

• Appetizers: $10–$15

• Main Courses: $22–$35

• Buffet (Weekend): Approx. $30 per person

• Drinks & Cocktails: $10–$18

Best Time to Visit

• Lunch Hours: 12 PM – 3 PM

• Dinner Hours: 5 PM – 10:30 PM

• Brunch (Weekends): 11:30 AM – 3 PM

Ambience Tips:

• Opt for weekday evenings for a quieter experience.

• Weekends tend to be livelier with families and large groups.

Dress Code and Dining Policies

• Dress Code: Smart casual to formal

• Pet Friendly: No

• Kid Friendly: Yes, with special menus for younger guests

Online Presence and Reviews

Chola has been featured in:

• The New York Times

• Eater NYC

• Local food blogs and influencer reels

Instagram foodies often post photos of their paneer tikka, chaat counters, and luxurious thalis using the tag #CholaNYC.

Why Chola Stands Out

• One of the few NYC Indian restaurants offering pan-Indian cuisine

• Elegant ambiance and professional-grade service

• Authentic representation of regional dishes rarely seen elsewhere

• Excellent vegetarian and seafood options

• Upscale buffet that doesn’t compromise on quality

Final Thoughts

Chola NYC isn’t just an Indian restaurant—it’s a culinary journey through India’s history, geography, and cultural richness. Whether you’re nostalgic for a dish from your childhood, or discovering Indian food for the first time, Chola offers a curated, elevated experience for every diner.