The Yadav brothers opened the doors to Kashi, a modern Indian restaurant bringing fresh, vibrant energy to Downtown Brooklyn’s dynamic dining scene. Named after Kashi (Varanasi) – one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, set along the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh – the restaurant draws inspiration from India’s spiritual and cultural heart. Through its cuisine, Kashi largely celebrates the diversity of Northern India, offering a tasting journey from the Ganges plains to the Himalayan foothills, from Mughal courts to Punjabi hearths.
The kitchen is led by Chef/Partner Hakikat Dhawan, whose career spans more than two decades across India and the United States. A Taj Palace New Delhi veteran, he has cooked for dignitaries, foreign delegations, and celebrities, and in New York has helmed the kitchens at Baazi, GupShup, and Inday, helping shape the city’s modern Indian dining landscape. At Kashi, Chef Dhawan presents the rich spectrum of North Indian flavors, blending tradition with global technique and contemporary flair.
Kashi’s menu showcases Awadhi, Mughlai, and Punjabi culinary traditions, each defined by its distinct cooking methods, spice profiles, and regional characteristics. From Awadhi cuisine, known for its delicate, slow-cooked dum-pukht technique, come dishes like Gucchi aur Sukhe Tamater Ka Pulao, with wild morel mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and fragrant basmati rice, and Chicken Dum Biryani, spiced with saffron and mint – both balancing subtlety and richness. Mughlai influences bring bold, aromatic gravies rooted in royal kitchens, with highlights such as Butter Chicken, featuring tandoori chicken tikka in a creamy tomato gravy; Dal Gosht, tender lamb ribs stewed with yellow lentils; and Osso Buco, a cross-cut, slow-braised lamb shank in a silken sauce – all dishes that emphasize cream, nuts, and spice. From Punjab, known for its smoky tandoor cooking and generous use of ghee and butter, come standouts like Methi Murgh, chicken morsels cooked with fenugreek, onion, tomato, and garlic; Paratwala Paneer Tikka, grass-fed cottage cheese layered with mint, cilantro pesto, mango, and chili; and Hariyali Bream, grilled with green chili, cilantro, mint, and mango – dishes that channel the homestyle comfort and abundance of Punjabi cooking. Signature creations such as Chicken Tikka Chlorophyll, featuring chicken blended with greens, chili, and onion; Achari Gobhi, cauliflower in a tangy pickled spice sauce; and Lamb Chops Zarishk Pulao, served with spiced basmati rice and saffron, highlight Chef Dhawan’s refined technique and global sensibility; while dishes like Dal Kashi with black lentils, kidney beans, and homemade butter, and Malaiyo, a saffron milk dessert with a frothy, cloud-like texture, nod to the restaurant’s namesake. Kashi also embraces playful crossovers that bridge cultures: Saag Burrata reimagines a North Indian classic with creamy Italian burrata; Hot Wings get an Indian accent with house spices, green chili, and coconut ranch; and a Kadai Chicken Taco features spiced pulled chicken and pickled onions in flaky Malabar parotta. Together, Kashi honors the flavors of India while also reflecting the creativity of today’s New York dining scene.
The restaurant’s beverage program is designed to complement the cuisine. Cocktail highlights include Kashi’s Paan Old Fashioned (Bourbon, Bitters, Black Cherry, Orange Peel, Rose Water); the Bollywood Wala Nasha (Rum, Pineapple, Cardamom, Seltzer) and the Chatpata Fizzy Shikanji (Tequila, Hibiscus Syrup, Chaat Masala, Lemonade, Seltzer). Non-alcoholic options are available as well, like the Roohafza Dhamaka (Roohafza, Coconut Syrup, Pineapple, Lemon-Lime Soda). Alongside these signature drinks, guests will also find a selection of beer and wine by the glass and bottle. Quarterly “Sip & Spice” tasting flights will launch after opening, expanding on Kashi’s food and drink experiences.
The design of the 1,850 square foot space – seating up to 60 guests – channels a modern Indian supper club sensibility, pairing heritage-inspired details with a clean, contemporary layout. Banquettes, tables, and a central bar create a balance of cozy corners and more social, open areas, with clear sightlines that keep the room feeling warm and connected. The dining room’s palette layers soft cream tones with pops of teal, complemented by mural walls that range from Mughal miniature-style pastoral scenes to sepia-toned architectural landscapes. Statement chandeliers and Mughal-inspired pendant lanterns cast a warm glow throughout, while chartreuse- and rust- hued tufted banquettes and brown leather chairs add polished comfort. The bar – wrapped in floral mosaic tile and finished with a bright white counter and glass shelving – anchors the space as a vibrant focal point.
Kashi is located at 286 Livingston Street in Downtown, Brooklyn. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday through Sunday. Cash and major credit cards are accepted. Reservations can be made via Resy and OpenTable, and walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call 919-909-0243, email [email protected], visit www.kashiny.com, or follow Kashi on Instagram (@kashibklyn).
