Go Beyond the Butter Chicken Experience at This East Village Indian Restaurant

"Adda is one of the earlier restaurants from the Indian dining hitmakers of Unapologetic Foods, of Dhamaka and Semma fame. And while it moved from its homey Queens roots into the East Village, there's a good reason Eater NY named it the Best Comeback in the 2025 Eater Awards: The kitchen hasn't lost its focus on flavorful regional subcontinent fare. Yes, the butter chicken experience ($42 and must be preordered) is highly popular, but there's so much more to explore."

"I'm a big fan of South Asian-cooked brains, and Adda's don't disappoint. The bheja masala ($27) mixes goat brain with egg custard, resulting in a springy, silky consistency, spreadable on the pao, a Portuguese sweet bread. The bhatti kumbh ($23) was a hit with my group: Before it was served, fresh foraged mushrooms were presented much like fish at an omakase. The resulting dish featured mushrooms that were seasoned and cooked to a juicy texture."

"The Awadhi lamb shank korma ($48) is showy: a server brings it over in a Dutch oven, then they remove the meat from the lamb shank using a spoon, mix it all, and leave the bone for flavor (for those who like to gnaw on the clinging meat bits). Do not skip getting the creamy dal side ($9). The chutney trio ($32) comes with medium-sized drinks: tamarind-dark rum, mango-serrano tequila, and onion-dry gin; you're encouraged to mix sips while eating the accompanying snacks."

Adda moved from Queens to the East Village while maintaining focus on flavorful regional subcontinent fare. The menu includes a preordered butter chicken and a variety of small plates and mains showcasing diverse ingredients. Bheja masala combines goat brain and egg custard into a springy, silky spread served with pao. Ananas paneer tikka pairs thick pineapple and cheese. Bhatti kumbh presents foraged mushrooms cooked to a juicy texture. The Awadhi lamb shank korma is served in a Dutch oven and finished tableside, with the bone left for added flavor. A creamy dal side and a chutney trio of spiked drinks accompany the meal. Chaat-style snacks, kulfi pops, and wrapped Indian candies finish the experience.

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