The area surrounding the Berlin, CT Home Depot plaza is developing an unusual culinary niche. There are not one, but two, sets of businesses with both a World Cuisine food market, and a separate but related restaurant in the same plaza. First there was the Tindahan City Filipino Market and its separate restaurant in the plaza they share with a Domino's. Now, in the plaza with the Super Cuts, there is an "India Foods Market" (which has been around for a while), and a separate "India Foods Restaurant" (which seems to be a few weeks old).
India Foods Restaurant seems to focus on street foods such as Dosas, Chaats, Puris and Samosas. I did not notice any meat dishes, or certain entrees that have become familiar in many Indian restaurants in America. No tikka masala, korma or saag, etc.
You order at the Counter. There is a small dining section. I elected to dine in. The dining room was more functional than nice. I asked for a recommendation, and the person who helped me recommended the Chole Bhatura. I didn't know what that was, but I went with it.
About 10 minutes later, they brought two disposable plates. One had a large compartment of saucy chick peas, a small section of red onion and lime, and a couple chili peppers for additional heat as desired. The second plate had two large Bhatura. If you've had Puri (made with white flour), you'll know what I mean when I say Bhatura (which is made with fermented flour) looks similar to Puri. If you're not familiar with Puri, think of Bhatura as similar to puffed up, fresh out of the oven pita. However, Bhatura is cooked in oil and is lighter. They were good and looked cool.
The chickpeas had good texture. The sauce was pretty good. Kind of a golden brown, with earthy mildly spicy seasoning. The red onions, chilis and lime allowed for a bit of customization. I tore the Bhatura, and used the pieces to soak up the sauce, or to make a chickpea and onion taco. A fun way to eat.
I enjoyed the Chole Bhatura. I will likely return to explore more of the menu when I need a quick bite.
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