New York City’s vibrant food scene just got a spectacular new addition, and this one is a game-changer. Say hello to Chatti, the first overseas venture by acclaimed chef Regi Mathew, the mastermind behind India’s much-loved Kappa Chakka Kandhari. Nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s Garment District, just a stone’s throw away from Times Square, Chatti brings to life a slice of Kerala’s toddy shop culture.
Chef Regi Matthew’s Chatti Brings Toddy Shop Vibes To Manhattan
Chatti (pronounced chuht-tee) is a love letter to Kerala’s iconic toddy shops, which are beloved for their bold, rustic flavours and communal spirit. These roadside taverns, scattered across Kerala’s lush landscapes, serve up some of the state’s most flavour-packed seafood, meats, and small plates, all traditionally paired with toddy, a naturally fermented palm or coconut drink. At Chatti, Chef Mathew recreates this unapologetically delicious tradition in a stylish yet earthy setting, designed to transport diners straight to Kerala’s backwaters.
The magic of toddy shop cuisine lies in its slow-cooked, intensely flavoured dishes, and Chatti stays true to this heritage. Expect a celebration of spices, coconut milk, Malabar tamarind, and Kerala’s rich coastal bounty. The signature small plates include Prawn Pouches, Toddy Shop Beef Fry, Duck Mappas, Tender Jackfruit Cutlets, Red Pumpkin Stew, etc. The seafood specialities like Pearl Spot Parcels (Karimeen Pollichathu), Seafood Moilee Soup, Pot Fish Curry, Lobster Moilee, and Raw Mango Prawn Curry bring the coastal flavours of toddy culture straight to Manhattan.
The authentic and wide menu at Chatti also offers Kerala’s signature breads, including Hoppers, Puttu, Coin Parotta, and Nei-Pathiri. After a hearty dose of curries and breads, Palada, Bird’s Eye Chilli Ice Cream, Chatti’s Signature Cloud Pudding, and more desserts with a Kerala Twist will make for a perfectly sweet ending.
An Atmosphere That Feels Like Kerala
View this post on Instagram
The Kerala-inspired menu deserves Kerala-inspired drinks, and Chatti’s artisanal cocktails deliver just that. Crafted to complement the bold flavours of the dishes, these drinks reimagine local ingredients with a modern mixology twist.
The Elephant Whisperer is a tropical delight with banana, coconut, white rum, and Prosecco and the Malayali Old Fashioned serves bourbon infused with toasted coconut, jaggery caramel, and cardamom vermouth. The Sam Bar is a truly one-of-a-kind cocktail featuring clarified sambar, South India’s beloved lentil stew, with curry leaf foam.
Chatti isn’t just about the food but also about the experience. The restaurant’s earthy tones, teak wood accents, and a striking laterite wall (a nod to Kerala’s traditional architecture) create a space that feels both warm and transportive. With seating for 80 guests, an intimate private dining room for 10, and a mezzanine-level party room for 70, Chatti is perfect for everything from casual meals to celebrations.
With Chatti, Chef Regi Mathew has reimagined toddy shop cuisine for the global stage, bringing Kerala’s rich, layered flavours to the heart of Manhattan. Whether you’re a seafood lover, spice enthusiast, or simply a food adventurer, this is one dining experience you won’t want to miss.
New York, get ready to fall in love with Kerala!
Where: 252 W 37th St, New York, NY
When: Mon to Fri: 5 pm to 11 pm | Sat – Sunday: 12 pm to 11 pm
Cost: US$ 200 (₹17,401.68 approx.)++ (For two)
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: February 25, 2025 12:31 PM