Saree Shopping & Kathiyawadi Kitchen,
New Jersey’s Little India

My friend wanted help picking out her outfit for an upcoming Indian wedding, so we took the opportunity to eat some authentic vegetarian Indian food and gawk at exquisitely beautiful sarees in New Jersey’s Little India, Edison, New Jersey. Their intricate details in the store’s bright lights was a thing of dress fantasy. I kind of have a thing for dresses and dressing up, you may know.

I wanted to but didn’t try anything on. Though my friend thought I was silly, I just thought, without a bonafide reason, it’d be a bit intrusive/cultural appropriation-y. Plus they were very expensive; too expensive for my deodorant stains.

We discussed a possible trip to India in light of her pursuing a PhD in theological studies, so maybe then I’d partake.

Though it was a out of Little India, I determined that Kathiyawadi Kitchen was the best vegetarian eatery in the vicinity. So we braved the tornado aftermath and headed to Sayreville, New Jersey, hometown the Bon Jovi… and this amazing Indian cuisine.

Of course, samosas to start. Because deep-fried potato is never a bad idea… especially so when it is cumin-spiced.

These were a fantastic treat I’d never seen offered before. Think soft, roasted sweet potato oozing tons of Indian spices and heat with a variety of mysterious textures inside a soft toasted bun.

Kathiyawadi Thali for the win. I confirmed my dairy-free needs to the gracious waiter like four times. He made sure that none of my curries had any dairy while explaining the dishes to my inquisitive friend patiently. He was the best waiter ever.

It had gotten so late so we didn’t have the hit up some of the Indian grocers like we had planned. I would love to return soon to explore the unique neighborhood. I am sure there are many veggie gems to uncover!