Chai Pani is located in downtown Decatur. It's a must try if you love Indian food. This restaurant has won numerous awards over the years, and has even been nominated for the prestigious James Beard award.

In Indian slang, chai pani translates into "tea and water" and basically means going out for a cup of tea or a snack.

At Chai Pani, you can test all sorts of interesting Indian snacks and street fare. The food is all fresh and homemade, and most importantly, extremely delicious. Pricing is a bit on the high side compared to most Indian restaurants. Nevertheless, it's nice to find something different as opposed to your typical Indian buffet.

The highlight here is the menu of "chaat" specialties which are basically Indian street snacks. Lots of tasty options here including plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. You really cannot go wrong with the kale pakoras!

Indian sandwiches and crepes are also on the lineup. The best way to go, however, is with the traditional thali. A thali allows you to taste a range of regional dishes which highlight the diversity of the region. Both veg and non veg options are available.

With each thali, you will get to try a veg or non veg special dish of the day, plus basmati rice, homemade daal, raita, housemade roti, kachumber, and Lijjat papadum. We tried both the veg and non veg options, and both were equally delicious. On one sour note, the dish was a bit pricey for such a small serving.