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Cali Chilli (DTLA)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Cali Chilli (DTLA)
8.0
A chef-led, Indian-forward fusion room near Little Tokyo that filters classic spices through global comfort-food forms. The menu is playful—sometimes surprising—but grounded in solid technique and rich sauces. A good pick when you want Indian flavors without a traditional template.
Must-Try Dishes:
Butter chicken pot pie, Eggplant bharta lasagna, Tandoori chicken wings
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Indian spice profiles applied to inventive, comfort-driven fusion dishes.
Who should go: Curious diners who like chef twists on classics.
When to visit: Evenings for the full menu and best vibe.
What to order: Butter chicken pot pie, eggplant bharta lasagna, tandoori wings.
Insider tip: Split a few fusion mains family-style to sample the range.
Cali Chilli (DTLA)
7.7
Michelin-star-chef Mural Manjunath’s ‘unauthentic Indian’ concept in Little Tokyo offers a playful, cross-cultural take on comfort food. The Eggplant Bharta Lasagna is smoky and spiced, swapping Italian tomato depth for tandoori-style eggplant and paneer-mozzarella layering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggplant Bharta Lasagna, Butter Chicken Pot Pie, Tellicherry Shrimp
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Indian-fusion lasagna that’s genuinely different yet comfort-forward.
Who should go: Fusion seekers and spice lovers.
When to visit: Dinner, especially weekends.
What to order: Eggplant bharta lasagna, pot pie, tellicherry shrimp
Insider tip: Pair the lasagna with their tangy chutney sides for contrast.