Cali Chilli

Cali Chilli has not only been continually updating its menu since opening in 2022 but but continues to define (and defy) the idea of what Indian food can be in Long Beach.

“We certainly have some Indian families come in and ask us for more spice,” said Praveen Nair, chuckling slightly. “We try to accommodate them as much as possible, but ultimately, we are trying to accommodate everyone. Cali Chilli is a way to both introduce people to Indian food that might not have experienced it beforehand as well as give those who love Indian food a new interpretation.”

Cali Chilli opened in late May of 2022 in Lakewood Village, crafting the space to be a dinnertime destination with much success. With its brass-trimmed glass bar shelves, color-changing LED lights beneath the barstool seats, and tall, industrial ceilings, it was a space that both didn’t take itself too seriously and catered to its nearby communities. The restaurant’s unique menu continues to be a play on the American tendency to insist that foods from other countries must be served “authentically,” loosely defined as strict adherence to tradition or, more often, cultural tropes.

And it’s working: Praveen has opened the space’s second location in Downtown Los Angeles in the heart of Little Tokyo. The pros? A massive footprint that goes beyond its Long Beach sibling and, even better, a great patio space that can expand the restaurant’s love of brunch and drinking.

“It’s unfortunate we weren’t able to get a patio here [in Long Beach] but I hope, perhaps, some of our patrons will make the trek to visit our new location,” Praveen said. We’re extremely proud of it.”

Written and photos by Brian Addison.

For the full feature on Cali Chilli, click here.