Rahul Banerjee

a week ago

"So much hype and recommendations from friends across the tri-state area made us take a jump this Saturday to experience lunch at Dhamaka. Located quite nicely in Essex Market, this place is a little crowded and has a marketplace feel to it. Our server was excellent who paid attention to everything we had to ask. Now to the food. We tried to sample 6 dishes across their spectrum of cuisine from across all parts of India. My overall impression was that this sort of represents India but something is lost in the translation. The Lamb biryani is more representative of Northwest frontiers than Punjab. The crab was excellent in its flavors, presentation and is a recommendation for this place. Bohri chicken cutlet was a pleasant surprise as well. The haiyali (Green) fish was quite a disappointment as was the chicken in cream sauce. The lamb had good flavors and quite spicy, however seemed a little hard."

Amandip Kaur

a month ago

"Modern take on traditional indian dishes was interesting — food was rich and flavorful. Service was excellent: everyone from host, chef, manager, and waitress were the kindest. Space was welcoming and cosy. I couldn’t try many of the popular dishes due to allergies but everything I took was good. I really liked the concept of showcasing dishes from different parts of India; it was cool to try a little bit of everything."

malhar kulkarni

a month ago

"Absolute banger of a place!! The name “Dhamaka” is apt and the flavors resonate with Indian food found in India. Unapologetic Foods (Dhamaka, Semma, Adda) certainly is holding the mantle for taking Indian cuisine forward in NYC. We tried most of the vegetarian options and it was incredible! - Malai Lassi is hands down best I have had in US - Excellent Chana Chenna Tikki and Paneer Tikka (softest paneer you would taste, it’s like almost melts in your mouth). The dips were flavorful too - Paneer Methi and Dhaba Dal blew my mind, no words Your tastebuds will be treated handsomely! Great staff and vibe plus delency market offers other stuff too!"

Ray C

2 months ago

"Had a great meal for my birthday. Lamb biryani was extremely flavorful. Intense umami flavor. Spinach and eggplant were great also. Will definitely come back. Service was awesome. Beef pepper fry was spicy. That was ok."

Stefano Murcia

3 months ago

"Wow! Dhamaka is a fresh take on traditional Indian dishes not usually found at most establishments of the same cuisine. We were pleased to enjoy flavors, spices, and aromas that were both unique and satiating! The setting is relaxed with matching interior decor and a nice street view of Essex St. There's nothing very flashy and it doesn't pretend to be upscale in a superficial sense either. The focus is entirely on amazing quality of ingredients and preparation. We recommend this place for a casual night out and for couples or groups with enough appetite. The dishes are definitely best shared amongst good company! All the waiters/hospitality staff at Dhamaka we're exceptional. It felt like I was at a restaurant that could approach Michelin star status. We had the pleasure to be served by Vikas. He was an excellent waiter with close attention to detail. Besides taking good care of us at each moment, we were also able to engage in great conversations. The experience was definitely warmer and friendlier because of his open personality and great recommendations. Until the next time!"