Asheville Food Scene: Chai Pani’s New Location and Flour Joins The S&W Market
Chai Pani’s Colorful Expansion
Asheville’s vibrant food scene welcomes the new location of Chai Pani, which officially opened its doors at 32 Banks Ave. The spacious 8,000 square feet venue, previously occupied by Buxton Hall Barbecue, now accommodates up to 120 diners and showcases a colorful ambiance that mirrors the restaurant’s eclectic Indian street food menu.
Dubbed as “America’s favorite restaurant” by The New York Times, Chai Pani has undergone this expansion to provide a better dining experience for its loyal customers. Owner Meherwan Irani noted the necessity of the move, stating, “I’d see them standing in line for hours trying to get into this tiny space. There’s only one bathroom. Our kitchen was overwhelmed, our staff was overwhelmed, and I realized in that moment this is not what we want our customers to experience.”
The enhanced kitchen space allows for an expanded menu featuring sizzling malai paneer, tandoori chicken, kabobs, and more. Additionally, the old Chai Pani location in downtown Asheville will be transformed into another Botiwalla eatery, offering a fresh culinary experience to the local community.
Native Nummies Food Truck
Adding to Asheville’s diverse culinary landscape is the newest food truck, Native Nummies, specializing in Indian fry bread. Owned by Jennifer King, a member of the Choctaw tribe in Oklahoma, the truck offers a selection of sweet fry bread options and Indian Tacos with various toppings.
King emphasized the cultural significance of Indian fry bread, stating, “There’s a history to it and that’s why kind of by design we left our menu simple.” Native Nummies recently obtained its license in Buncombe County and will be making its debut at the White Squirrel Festival in Brevard, inviting festival-goers to savor this traditional Native American specialty.
Flour Bakery and Coffee Shop
The bustling S&W Market welcomes a new addition with the opening of Flour, a bakery and coffee shop offering an array of bread-based recipes throughout the day. Located on the left upon entry, Flour serves up biscuit sandwiches and pastries in the morning and transitions to wine, cocktails, and focaccia sandwiches during lunch and dinner.
Co-owner Gordon Gibbs, along with his partners Carter and Kyle James, brings his expertise from top-tier restaurants in Los Angeles to Flour’s menu. Highlighting a vegan spiced cauliflower sandwich with pickled onions and tahini vinaigrette, Flour promises a unique culinary experience within the market’s bustling food scene.
Stay Updated with Asheville’s Culinary Delights
For more information on Chai Pani, Native Nummies, and Flour, visit their respective websites and social media pages to stay connected with the latest offerings and updates. Asheville’s food scene continues to evolve, offering residents and visitors a taste of diverse flavors and culinary creativity.
