Namkeen Dhaba, a new addition to Maricopa's culinary scene, made its debut at the Wild West Music Fest. The husband-and-wife team behind this venture, Manoj and Erin Kari, have a passion for bringing authentic Indian cuisine to the Maricopa community. Their menu features mouthwatering dishes like butter chicken, chicken korma, and palak paneer.
Manoj's culinary inspiration comes from his diverse upbringing. With roots in Kuwait, an Indian father, and a Sri Lankan mother, he grew up appreciating a blend of flavors from these countries. According to Manoj, Namkeen is all about this fusion of different taste profiles.
What makes Namkeen Dhaba stand out is their dedication to detail. Manoj, who has a decade of experience as a chef before transitioning into a software engineer, uses a unique flavor profile that sets their food apart. The curries, which take around four hours per batch to prepare, reflect their commitment to authenticity and exceptional taste.
Although their business at the Wild West Music Fest didn't reach the anticipated levels due to festival attendance, they've gained loyal customers who appreciate the genuine flavors. Erin mentioned the delighted reactions from those who sampled their dishes.
Looking ahead, the Karis plan to stay local, participating in Maricopa events, including Food Truck Fridays and regular appearances at the Central Arizona College Maricopa Campus. Namkeen Dhaba promises to be a delightful addition to the local food scene, bringing an exciting blend of Indian cuisine inspired by their rich cultural background.