Pakistan Tea House

176 Church St, 212-240-9800

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Cost per person: $7
Value/money: 9/10

In few words - fast, convenient, fresh Indian food. Ultra-cheap, but freshly prepared in a very homely style - not very rich in spices or oil. For a quick Indian meal, I'd rather eat here than at Baluchi's and Salaam Bombay, also in the neighborhood - I don't fancy the rich spices and heavy food too much. This place is very much like home.

The place is crowded at lunchtime, so head early if you want to eat in. In general, they have the dishes out and ready to serve by 11:30am.

The bread is made to order - you can opt for wheat (tandoori roti) or white (naan) when placing your order, and it will be baked in front of you. Platters cost a minimal $4.99 for vegetarian and $5.99 for meat. The basic non-vegetarian platter of 2 vegetables and 1 non-veg item works fine for most people. The vegetarian fare usually includes cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, curried potatoes, and dal. Non-veg options have at least one gravy dish in beef, chicken and lamb. Seekh kebobs, tikkas and chhapli kebobs are well made. Biryani is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, in chicken and mutton respectively. Haleem, a dish of rice and meat, is available at times, and tastes excellent.

Dinnerware is paper and plastic, and seating arrangements are minimal in this spartan joint. From what I hear, deliveries are not reliable, or not made. However, if you can manage to come down here for a take-out, or can seat yourself for a quick meal, the simple fare here is recommended and healthier than the usual fast food.