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Thelewala
Master Critic Review
Thelewala
8.1
A compact counter a few doors from Kati Roll, Thelewala focuses on Indian street snacks and rolls—lime paneer, bhel puri, chaats—served fast with assertive spice. Limited counter seating and late hours make it a go-to for students and bar-hoppers wanting something more flavorful than a slice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lime paneer roll, Chicken Malai Roll, Bhel puri
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Tight Indian street-food counter known for punchy rolls and chaat into the early morning.
Who should go: Spice-tolerant night owls and students near Washington Square.
When to visit: Post-midnight on weekends or mid-afternoon for breathing room.
What to order: Lime paneer roll, Chicken Malai Roll, bhel puri sharer.
Insider tip: If you’re spice-sensitive, mention it clearly—default heat can run high on some rolls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on MacDougal turnover quickly and are scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, jeans, and post-gym attire all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud during peak late-night hours; ordering is counter-style, not conversation-focused.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on bar traffic; lines move fast.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, occasionally 5 minutes during NYU rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—lime paneer roll, aloo masala roll, and multiple chaats.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—bhel puri and select chaats; confirm sauces to avoid yogurt.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—most rolls use wheat parathas; chaats are the safest GF-adjacent choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s a tiny counter-service spot with limited seating and a grab-and-go vibe. Better for casual hangs than romantic setups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations, but seating is extremely limited. Most diners eat standing or take their food to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who can handle spice and counter eating; not great for toddlers or strollers due to tight space.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and punchier spice than nearby roll shops; standout for chaat and late-night grab-and-go snacks.
Skip if: You want comfortable seating, mild flavors, or a sit-down meal—opt for nearby Ananda or Mint Masala instead.