Cheeni
485 Tompkins Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Crema's Take
“Cheeni brings Indian street food culture to Brooklyn with genuine warmth and creative ambition, pairing house-made specialties like their Kati Crunchwrap and spiced potato chops with carefully crafted beverages that go far beyond standard cafe fare. The space strikes that rare balance between a casual neighborhood hangout and a place worthy of lingering—whether you're working on your laptop or settling in for a leisurely meal—where every detail from the drinks to the pastries reflects real intention and care.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
My friend and I went to a cute cafe. Indian dishes weren't authentic; we had masala chai (American cinnamon milk tea) and mango lassi (not mango-like). Keema pav was delicious. Chicken popcorn was burnt. Service and atmosphere were great.
Cheeni is such a breath of fresh air, a cafe that pours intention into every beverage, quality into every bite, and warmth into their interactions with customers. i've come twice this week and will be back over & over. the food is so so good. can enthusiastically recommend the Loaded Egg Paratha for breakfast, the 65 Snack Wrap for a filling & affordable lunch bite, and the passionfruit cake is (vegan, what?!?) so so delicious. big shout to the Cheeni team for the care with which you've designed your space, menu, and offering. 🖤
What a find. This fairly small casual restaurant has Indian street foods, dessert treats and delicious drinks. We had Chop (a croquette of spiced potatoes) and Phuchka (small deep fried shells filled with chickpeas, potatoes & onions) and a salad. All were outstanding. The staff is so helpful and friendly. The next morning we had to come back to try their lattes and got a rose pistachio pastry to go. Definitely will return.
Love this new neighborhood spot! I’ve had their great coffee before but finally tried the food and YUM. The Kati Crunchwrap is so yummy!! Decided to work from here today and the vibes are great for work (they play a lot of Lady Gaga, so of course the vibes are great).
I tried 3 dishes, a couple drinks and desserts in recent weeks and I think the flavor palette I enjoyed indian food growing up or the ideas in my mind on what fresh ideas on what indian food could look like now didn't play out when going to this establishment. For me, all the flavors felt off. The outdoor seating is a bit dangerous to place drinks on and outdoor chairs are a bit small to sit.The food/drinks while aesthetically pleasing... but the flavors were over-powering or mixed in a way that made the whole experience of the food not very enjoyable. If the flavors work for you, I think you'll enjoy this place. If not, don't try lots of stuff on the menu just to convince yourself that it was you.
Crema Reviews
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