The Kati Roll Company NYC: A Flavor-Packed Indian Street Food Icon

Introduction: The Kati Roll Revolution in Manhattan

In a city as culinary-diverse as New York, standing out in the fast-casual space takes more than good food—it demands identity, soul, and flavor. The Kati Roll Company, established in 2002, delivers all three with bold flair. Located in Midtown Manhattan, with additional locations across NYC and internationally, this eatery has singlehandedly introduced the NYC crowd to Kolkata’s iconic kati rolls.

The experience is informal, colorful, and full of flavor—just like the streets of India. With a 4.4-star Google rating and loyal fanbase, it’s safe to say this roll joint is now an institution.

The Origin of the Kati Roll

The word “kati” means “skewer” in Bengali. The original kati roll was born in Kolkata, where marinated meat was cooked on skewers and wrapped in a paratha with onions and chutney. The Kati Roll Company has brought this concept across the globe while keeping its roots intact.

Their success lies in staying true to the format—freshly made parathas, spicy fillings, and handcrafted chutneys, served fast but with love.

Ambiance: Urban India Meets Downtown NYC

The decor at The Kati Roll Company pays homage to the vibrancy of Indian street life. Think Bollywood movie posters, worn-out tiles, handwritten menu boards, and funky murals. It’s casual, creative, and feels like a slice of Kolkata.

The space is compact and buzzing with activity—ideal for a quick lunch, post-work snack, or midnight craving. The laid-back vibe makes it approachable for students, office-goers, and foodies alike.

The Menu: Simple, Spicy, and Satisfying

The Kati Roll Company’s menu is compact but powerful. Focused on Indian wraps, the variety comes from the fillings—meat, paneer, egg, veggie—and bread choices like paratha or roti.

Wraps: The Star of the Show

Top Sellers Include:

• Unda Chicken Roll:
  A spicy chicken tikka wrapped in a paratha lined with a fluffy beaten egg. Juicy, bold, and perfectly messy.

• Aloo Masala Roll (V):
  A vegetarian favorite made with spiced mashed potatoes, onions, and house chutney.

• Shami Kabab Roll:
  Made with minced lamb patties and garam masala—rich, smoky, and addictive.

• Paneer Tikka Roll (V):
  Chunks of grilled Indian cottage cheese with tangy spices and herbs.

• Unda Beef Roll:
  Spiced beef with egg—hearty and high on heat.

• Double Roll Options:
  All rolls can be upgraded to “double” for extra stuffing and appetite satisfaction.

Each roll is made fresh to order and wrapped in eco-friendly paper, making them perfect for on-the-go dining.

Plates & Sides: More Than Just Rolls

• Kati Salad:
  A mix of greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and spiced chicken or paneer.

• Chickpea Chaat (V):
  A tangy-spicy chickpea salad with onion, tomato, tamarind, and chaat masala.

• Mixed Pickle & House Yogurt:
  Add-ons that bring authenticity to every bite.

• Samosas:
  Crisp, golden pastry filled with potatoes, peas, and spices.

Drinks: Desi and Refreshing

• Mango Lassi:
  A chilled mango yogurt smoothie—sweet and creamy.

• Masala Chai:
  Spiced tea brewed with milk, cardamom, and ginger.

• Thums Up / Limca:
  Classic Indian sodas that bring nostalgia in a bottle.

• Bottled Water and Soda options are also available.

Pricing: Affordable and Filling

For Midtown Manhattan, The Kati Roll Company is refreshingly budget-friendly. Prices range from:

• Single rolls: $6.50 – $9.50

• Double rolls: $9.50 – $12.50

• Chaat/Samosa sides: $4 – $7

• Drinks: $2.50 – $5.50

Meal combos including two rolls and a drink are often available and offer great value.

Health & Customization Options

If you’re watching your diet, the restaurant offers options to:

• Swap paratha for whole wheat roti

• Remove egg

• Go dairy-free (ask for no paneer or yogurt)

• Reduce spice level

Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of hearty choices like the Chana Chaat, Aloo Roll, and Paneer Tikka Roll.

Service: Fast, Friendly, No Fuss

This isn’t the kind of place where you need to sit down for an hour. Service is counter-based, quick, and efficient. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and food arrives within minutes.

Ideal for:

• Quick lunch break

• Bite before a Broadway show

• Midnight snack run

• Casual meet-ups

Location & Accessibility

Main Address (Midtown Manhattan):
49 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018

Other NYC Locations:

• Greenwich Village (99 MacDougal St)

• East Village (128 1st Ave)

Website:
https://www.thekatirollcompany.com

Delivery & Takeout:
Available via Uber Eats, Seamless, DoorDash

Open Daily:
11:30 AM – 11:00 PM (hours may vary slightly by location)

Customer Praise & Accolades

With thousands of reviews and a Google rating of 4.4/5, The Kati Roll Company is one of the most popular Indian quick-bite joints in NYC. Customers love:

• The fast service

• Generous portions

• Perfectly spiced fillings

• Nostalgic, Bollywood-themed décor

Events, Pop-ups, and Global Reach

The Kati Roll Company has grown beyond New York, with locations in London and international franchise opportunities. They've also hosted pop-ups and catered for high-profile events, becoming a flagbearer of Indian street food culture in the West.

Sustainability Note

The brand uses eco-friendly packaging, recycles when possible, and minimizes waste in its kitchens. It's street food with modern sensibilities.

Conclusion: Why The Kati Roll Company Deserves a Visit

In a city where quick eats can feel generic, The Kati Roll Company stands out with identity, authenticity, and flavor. It offers the soul of Indian street food in a New York-ready format—easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying.