Seemor
Doaba DeliA-Worth Trying
945 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025
· Indian restaurant, Indian takeaway, North Indian restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (629 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Ultra-affordable, pure-veg Punjabi home cooking with amazing parathas and a $10 thali; delicious but spicy, tiny space, and service can be brusque.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Doaba Deli earns its grade A- standing through exceptional food quality and outstanding value—the $10 thali delivers authentic, generously-portioned Punjabi comfort food that keeps regulars returning. However, inconsistent service warmth, cramped seating, and basic hygiene conditions prevent higher recognition. This is a hidden gem for budget-conscious diners seeking real, soulful vegetarian cooking, best experienced as takeaway to nearby parks.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels no-frills and bustling, a tiny counter spot where regulars pop in for roti and chai. Reviews gush about comforting, cumin-forward curries and parathas that taste like home. One diner put it simply: "The thali warmed me up like a home-cooked meal." Expect fast, functional service over polish and a space that is more practical than pretty. The cooking leans traditional and hearty—classic Punjabi vegetarian with dals, chana, palak, and oversized parathas. The culinary approach is comfort-first, not flashy (innovation level 3.6): spice-forward, soulful, and priced for everyday eating. If you seek a budget plate that satisfies, the $10 thali is the move; if you want ceremony or décor, look elsewhere. Families do fine here if you keep it simple: naan or roti with mild dal works for many kids, but several curries run hot. There is no kids menu, and seating is very limited, so takeaway to the park can be the better play. Portions are generous, prices kind, and the food reads as real.
At a Glance
- Excellent $10-ish thali value with fresh roti
- Homestyle Punjabi flavors and generous portions
- Very small, congested space; best for takeaway
- Service can be brusque; occasional rudeness reports
- Spice levels run hot; limited transparency on surcharges
What Sets It Apart
- pure_vegetarian_focus
- ultra_budget_thali
- homestyle_punjabi_flavors
- student_and_worker_refuge
What People Love
- That it tastes like home cooking
- Gigantic, chewy roti and parathas
- The choose-your-own thali format
- Prices that feel rare for Manhattan
- Friendly interactions with the owners when not rushed
Points of Concern
- Tiny dine-in area gets crowded; lines and delays at rush
- Service mood swings from warm to brusque; a few rude encounters reported
- Reports of credit card surcharge and a can-priced above menu listing
- One complaint about an added tip after declining; verify receipts
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$12-18 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Build a thali around chana masala ($6.50 equivalent), a green (palak), and a mild dal; add tandoori roti ($1) and gulab jamun ($2) for a complete budget meal.
Perfect For
- A fast, filling vegetarian meal on a budget
- Post-park picnic with parathas and chai
- Students and late-night workers needing comfort food
- Solo diners grabbing a quick, satisfying plate
Location Insights
Area: Residential Upper West Side corridor with student and worker foot traffic; casual, everyday spots over fine dining.
Safety: Generally safe, busy avenues and steady foot traffic; basic storefront upkeep expected.
Nearby: Near Central Park West and Columbia University corridor; convenience to students, drivers, and late-night workers.
Upper West SideThe Upper West Side is characterized by a diverse dining scene ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, often frequented by locals who appreciate quality and variety. The area has a relaxed yet sophisticated social atmosphere, with many establishments catering to both families and young professionals. It is known for its safety, accessibility, and a strong community feel.
West 100th Street CorridorThis micro-neighborhood along Columbus Avenue near 100th Street features a quieter, more residential vibe with a selection of neighborhood-focused dining options, including cozy cafes and ethnic eateries. It is less touristy and more community-oriented compared to the southern parts of the Upper West Side.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–23:59
Tuesday07:00–00:00
Wednesday10:00–23:59
Thursday10:00–23:59
Friday10:00–23:59
Saturday10:00–23:59
Sunday10:00–23:59
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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