New Indian Restaurant in Alexandria

The Bombay Canteen is a collaboration between DMV restaurateur Asad Sheikh and chef Nishi Barua, for whom the restaurant is the realization of a 15-year dream. Sheikh, who grew up on Mumbai's Linking Road corridor, is returning to the Alexandria restaurant scene after selling his former Cameron Station restaurant, London Curry House, in 2017. The restaurant's menu is inspired by the street food of Mumbai (formerly Bombay), where Barua spent her college years developing a passion for the culinary arts. Offerings include vada pav (spiced potato fritters in soft buns), pav bhaji (buttery mashed vegetables with toasted bread), and layered chaats. The interior design reflects Mumbai's culture, with Bollywood art and colors that echo the city's vibrant curry dishes. Located at 2010 Eisenhower Avenue, the restaurant replaces the former Hunan Cafe. It features seating for approximately 45 guests indoors and an additional 25 on an outdoor patio. The Bombay Canteen offers daily lunch and dinner service, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The Eisenhower East neighborhood is a significant economic hub, home to major federal agencies like the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the National Science Foundation. The area has seen substantial development, including new residential and retail projects, which bring a built-in customer base for new establishments. The opening was celebrated with local city and business leaders in attendance, including Mayor Alyia Gaskins and City Councilman Canek Aguirre. Gaskins expressed excitement for the new business and its potential to become a gathering place for the community. The restaurant offers unlimited Thali platters for lunch on weekdays, providing a diverse assortment of dishes like saag paneer and chicken tikka masala for a fixed price. In the evening, the a la carte menu focuses on Bombay snacks and delicacies. Desserts include traditional Indian sweets like gulab jamun and house-made, Indian-inspired gelatos.