Table Hopping with Morris Gut: Where to Celebrate Diwali!
Diwali, the Hindu ‘Festival of Lights’, is a major holiday throughout India and the rest of the globe. It is a fine time to enjoy the vibrant colorful flavors of India culture and cuisine. It peaks on Nov. 8th this year, but the celebrations continue all month. It is marked by rituals, parades, and plenty of good food. Here are some local spots to take in those exotic flavors. Dine in or take out:
Coromandel Cuisine of India, 464 North Ave., New Rochelle. 914-235-8390 The best Indian take-out in the Queen City. You may remember them from their former Division St. location. www.coromandeltogo.com
Coriander-Modern Indian, 154 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont. 914-235-1306 Proprietor Shawn Nagpal and his team offer a modern touch to their regional Indian cuisine. www.corianderny.com
Mumbai Katta, 227 Westchester Ave., Port Chester. 516-953-3265 Anita and Jayant Gawde have opened a vibrant ode to flavorful regional Indian street food. They will mark the traditional 5 day festival Diwali. Anita is a dynamo in front and back of the house. www.mumbaikatta.com
Neha Palace, 27 Meyer Ave., Yonkers at Cross County Shopping Center. 914-476-5900 Diya Ramchandani’s big, elegant restaurant and catering venue serving Halal cuisine. www.nehapalaceyonkers.com
Marigold Cuisine, 434 White Plains Road, Eastchester. 914-202-9455 Michelin recognized chef Hermant Mathur, who was personal chef to the Prime Minister of India, offers a creative modern take on India cuisine. www.ordermarigoldrestaurant.com
Shirley’s India, 1 Leroy Place, New Rochelle. 914-632-6736 Take out only. Kerala specialties. Catering and live action stations. https://www.shirleysindia.com/home
Kokum Grill & Wok, 2 Eastchester Road (corner of North Ave.), New Rochelle. 914-265-6279 The new kid on the block near IONA. www.kokumgrillandwok.com
NH44 Indian, 219 E. Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale. 914-574-5262 Jeevan Pullan and Rashan Balan named their restaurant after the longest highway in India. Indian specialties with aplomb. www.nh44indian.com
(Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in greater Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. Email: gutreactions@optonline.net)