The Garage Goes Indian

Most people are a little uncertain of what to expect when they enter the Garage and approach the colorful counter of Chutney’s—the more exotic replacement for Flat Patties. In a Square fast-food scene long dominated by pizza and burritos, the concept of Indian food to-go is rather novel. But for those who don’t know their vindaloo from their palak paneer, the friendly staff will gladly offer samples and explanations to aid in the selection process.

Take away the South Asian substance, and Chutney’s looks just like the average Qdoba or Chipotle. Customers choose their bread or wrap from options like naan and paratha, which is like a burrito wrap. Possible fillings include tofu, chicken, lamb, and vegetables. Finally, customers pick from a range of intriguing sauces, with flavors like mango, pineapple, mint, and yogurt. And if you’re still in doubt about Chutney’s cred as a fast-food venue, check out the value meal, which includes two additional samosas or momos and a fountain drink.

Despite the deviations from a more authentic, traditional Indian cuisine (they don’t actually serve anything called a “nanini” in India, and momos are technically more Tibetan), the food is fresh and includes a lot of the spicy flavors for which Indian food is known. Chutney’s also offers several authentic Indian drinks like lassi, chai, and a soda called Thums Up, which received a mention in Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat Pray Love.”

It looks like Chutney’s might just be the next “it” place for Harvard students to grab a quick meal. Manager Ujjwal Dhaubhadel calls his style “kind of a mix-and-match.” The eclectic offerings seem to be meeting an unanswered demand—as one customer comments, “I can only eat Subway for so many days.”