CHATTI BY REGI MATHEW: A KERALA CULINARY EXPERIENCE IN NYC
CHATTI BY REGI MATHEW: A KERALA CULINARY EXPERIENCE IN NYC
Renowned Malayali chef Regi Mathew, the visionary behind Kappa Chakka Kandhari, has launched his latest venture in New York City – Chatti NYC, a Kerala-style restaurant. Drawing inspiration from Kerala’s iconic toddy shops and his mother’s home-cooked meals, Chatti offers an authentic and flavorful dining experience. It gained widespread popularity among the Malayali community, and we knew we had to check it out.
AMBIANCE
The restaurant exudes a modern, fine-dining ambiance, complemented by earthy aesthetics and high-quality imported furniture and decor. It perfectly embodies the relaxed atmosphere of Kerala, with minimalist yet sophisticated elements that capture its true essence. The interior is both welcoming and warm, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle of NYC, perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying quality time with family and friends. Every detail, from the furniture to the plating, seating, decor, and lighting, to the instrumental South Indian music, has been thoughtfully curated to create a redefined yet vibrant dining experience.
SERVICE AND HOSPITALITY
The staff at Chatti were incredibly attentive and warm. They frequently checked in to see how we were enjoying everything, offered great recommendations, and were quick to respond to our needs and requests. Our main server, though not Malayali herself, made a genuine effort to learn from us about the Malayali culture. These personal touches, along with the willingness to engage, truly made the service exceptional.
FOOD AND DRINKS
The presentation mirrored Kerala-style toddy shop experience, elevated with a more upscale and refined touch. The touchings were so delicious and we could not get enough. We sampled a variety of dishes, including Trivandrum chicken fry, toddy shop beef fry, BDF, Quilon coconut prawns, chili roasted calamari, mathi varuthathu, banana blossom patties, chicken stew, clay pot fish curry, duck mappas, string hoppers, biriyani, Kerala porottas, and more.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the unforgettable desserts. We had cloud pudding, filter coffee pudding, palada, coconut pancake, and purple taro ice cream. The drinks were fantastic, with unique names that matched the flavors.
The portions were tapas-style, allowing us to try a variety of dishes, and each one was rich with authentic flavors of Kerala. There were recommended pairings, and while we tried some of those pairings, everything complemented each other well. The spice levels varied across the dishes, but Chef Regi Mathew accommodated our preferences of spice. Each bite was rich and smokey, or sweet and indulgent.
CHEF REGI MATHEW
We had the incredible opportunity to meet Chef Regi Mathew directly, and it was truly a memorable experience. From the moment we arrived, he made us feel incredibly welcome, frequently checking in to ensure we were enjoying everything. He engaged in genuine conversations with us, sharing the fascinating stories behind some of the dishes, and in turn, also taking time to get to know us. Chef Regi’s warmth, humility, and kindness were evident in every interaction. His passion for his craft, not only in the food but also in the genuine hospitality he extended to every guest at Chatti NYC.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The experience was truly wonderful, and we felt grateful to indulge in an upscale Kerala culinary journey, right in the heart of New York City. Chatti NYC is a perfect spot for couples, families, food enthusiasts, or even those looking for a solo dining experience. It was a deeply proud moment for us to witness people from all backgrounds, both Malayali and non-Malayalis, come together to enjoy the flavors of Kerala. It’s a testament to how food can bridge cultures and create a sense of unity, all thanks to Chef Regi’s dedication and talent.
