Written by Kaitlyn Gomez
It starts with a crunch, maybe a kick of spice, then something sweet, a bit tangy, and a whisper of heat that lingers just long enough to make you take another bite. Welcome to Chaatwala, where every plate tells a story, and every story begins on the streets of India.
Founded by culinary adventurer and longtime food obsessive Jai, Chaatwala isn’t just another Indian eatery, it’s a celebration of chaat, the soul-snacking experience that’s captured hearts (and taste buds) across South Asia for centuries. Nestled in the heart of the DMV—serving communities across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, Chaatwala brings the bustle, flavor, and fun of India’s street food scene to a whole new audience.
But what exactly is chaat?
Chaat (or chāt, IAST: cāṭ) comes from the Hindi word chaatnā, meaning “to lick”, a reference to the irresistible, finger-licking nature of this savory snack genre. Originating in Uttar Pradesh, India, chaat has evolved into a rich and varied culinary tradition across India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. These dishes were historically served as hors d’oeuvres or quick bites at roadside stalls and food carts, with roots stretching all the way back to Mughal-era Delhi.
Chaat is always bold, always fresh. It features a dynamic mix of crispy dough, yogurt, chutneys, potatoes, chickpeas, and spice blends like chaat masala, which combines dried mango (amchoor), kala namak (black salt), cumin, ginger, and more to create its signature tang. Every region has its own twist, and it’s this variety that makes chaat both a local treasure and a global obsession.
For Jai, these dishes are more than nostalgic—they’re foundational. “Growing up in Delhi, street food wasn’t just something we ate, it was part of how we celebrated, rewarded ourselves, connected with people,” he says. “That energy, that excitement of watching a chaatwala mix your plate right in front of you, I wanted to bring that to the DMV.”
And he has.
Chaatwala’s menu is a journey across India’s culinary map: from the spice-laden Misal Pav of Kolhapur to the soothing Poha of Indore, the crispy comfort of Dal Pakwan from Sindhi kitchens, and the beloved Masala Puri of Bangalore. Classic street staples like Gol Guppa, Chole Bhature, and Aloo Tikki Chaat are also front and center, each made with chemical-free ingredients and prepared using traditional techniques.
But more than just a meal, Chaatwala is an experience, a moment of joy for homesick expats, a window into India’s street food culture for the curious, and a love letter to food that’s meant to be eaten messily, joyfully, and together.
“Chaat is personal,” Jai says. “You can’t order it passively. It’s fast, but not fast food. It’s customized, communal, and creative. And that’s what makes it so special.”
It’s also what makes it universal. In a diverse, fast-paced region like the DMV, where many communities intersect, Chaatwala has quickly found a fan base of locals, immigrants, foodies, and families. Each visit brings a taste of something familiar, or an introduction to something entirely new.
And with every plate served, Chaatwala is doing more than feeding people, it’s reviving a rich culinary legacy, one snack at a time.
Address - 1050 Elden street Herndon VA 20170
Website - www.chaatwala.com
Telephone- 8885049666
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