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Casual Indian eatery Masala Story started serving lamb curry and masala chai to Brookland diners a month ago.
The new arrival (3301 12th Street NE) was originally designed as an extension of NoMa favorite Indigo but that plan unraveled last fall due to “insurmountable” problems between now-estranged family members.
The completely separate entity from co-owner Manish Berry includes a fully stocked bar, assorted vegan and vegetarian dining options, and a long list of platters with sides like chickpeas and rice ($12 to $15).
The colorful and modern space, with brick, wood, and industrial accents, couches, and TVs, invites diners to stay a while.
Read on to hear what customers are saying, four weeks into service:
The Consistency News: Yelper Erik D. has been in for dine in and carryout. “Both times the food was very good. Service is fast; turnaround for lunch was less than 10 minutes,” he writes And Yelper Pankaj W. says, “I have been going to Masala Story like twice a week. I must congratulate them for the amazing Indian food and great service.” [Yelp]
The Authentic News: Yelper Sofia F., who self identifies as South Asian, says she can vouch for the authenticity of the food. “The tindura is awesome (and rarely seen on menus), biryani is great too,” she writes. And Aarti P., who claims to be of Indian descent, says “This place was amazing! Authentic, fresh, flavorful...and great atmosphere to boot! I’m impressed and highly recommend Masala Story to anyone looking for no kidding REAL Indian food, cooked in the North Indian style.” [Yelp]
The Suggestions Box News: TripAdvisor’s David M. says, “The quality of the food was good and the portions were also good. Only complaint is the price point is a bit to high, but other than that I would go back.” And Yelper K D. says “sports on the TV at the bar might be a nice touch.” Yelper Melinda F. has major issues with a very important side. “Masala Story’s naan is awful. It was dense and greasy and oddly gritty, nothing like the light, slightly crispy bread I was expecting,” she warns. [TripAdvisor, Yelp]
The 411 News: Facebook user Beerjas Bath says he just arrived from India and “was looking for authentic Punjabi food ... [Masala] did not disappoint at all. Portion sizes were very generous and the vibe was nice. Chicken was delicious!” Facebook user Lindsey Wilkes says, “The food was wonderful and the staff extremely nice, even when it was very busy.” [Facebook]
The Laid Back News: Yelper Jen P. says she is “relieved to have more casual dining options that don’t feel stuffy or pretentious.” Facebook user Karim Tarek Allam notes “the place is well decorated and very well organized.” Yelper Nicky S. calls it “good, reasonably priced Indian food in a very comfortable and relaxing setting.” [Yelp, Facebook]
The Welcome Neighbor News: Yelper E F. is “happy that Brookland has an Indian restaurant with such amazing food and warm hospitality.” Yelper James S. has “been looking forward to having a good Indian restaurant in Brookland, and this place ticks all the boxes.” [Yelp, Facebook]
