ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Pongal
8.3
Pongal is a long-running vegetarian South Indian spot on Lexington where dosas, uttapam, and thalis fill a narrow dining room packed with regulars. Prices stay reasonable for the neighborhood, and the menu quietly covers vegan, Jain, and gluten-free needs without fanfare.
Must-Try Dishes:
Masala dosa, South Indian thali, Chili cheese dosa
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: All-vegetarian South Indian menu with deep neighborhood roots.
Who should go: Vegetarians and dosa fans wanting affordable comfort
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before the queue builds
What to order: Masala dosa, a thali, and a chili cheese dosa to share
Insider tip: Use the lunch hour for quickest turnover and best value combos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce on Lexington Avenue; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and practical — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud — lively room where conversation is easy but not hushed.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours without arriving early
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait outside of the 12–1pm rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is vegetarian with wide variety.
Vegan options: Yes — many naturally vegan dosa, idli, and rice dishes; staff can guide you.
Gluten-free options: Good options — dosas, idlis, and rice-based thalis work well for gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure first date than a romantic one — it’s bright, busy, and focused on food over ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Pongal doesn’t operate on reservations, but arriving early for dinner or outside peak lunch hours minimizes waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — dosa, rice plates, and mild curries work well for kids, though the busy room suits school-age children better than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Authentic South Indian vegetarian cooking with quick turnover and strong value compared to more polished but pricier Curry Hill competitors.
Consider Alternatives If: Skip it if you’re seeking upscale interiors, cocktails, or a quiet dining atmosphere — this is about flavor and speed, not mood lighting.