Restaurant Review: Namkeen Hot Chicken

Namkeen has been on my foodie bucket list for months. If the thought of southern hot chicken with Pakistani spices does not intrigue you, then you’re reading the wrong blog. The creativity and meshing of different cultural flavors is what keeps food exciting by tickling your taste buds and adding to the experience through a plethora of other senses.

When talking about spicy chicken sandwiches, there’s been a constant battle over the last few years: Chick-fil-A, Popeyes, KFC, etc. It seems like every fast food chain and mom-and-pops shop has created their version of one to compete in the spicy chicken sandwich war. We tried a majority of them too – but none come close to Namkeen. Hot, juicy, quality chicken with the crispiest breading accompanied with homemade coleslaw and the sauce of choice depending on which sandwich you get. How can anyone say no to that?

When you first walk in, you’re greeted by the friendly staff and their modern décor.

Their menu is small, but that’s the beauty of it. We’re pretty sure they’ve perfected everything on there.

Luis got the Tikkaville Sandwich, which is fried chicken smothered in their tikka sauce and includes pickled onions and mint chutney on a brioche bun. It comes with coleslaw too, but Luis wanted it on the side.

I got the Nashville Sandwich, made with hot fried chicken, pickles, coleslaw, and chipotle aioli on a brioche bun. SO FREAKING GOOD. I chose mild as the spicy level, which already packed on a bit of heat. And we also got the masala fries! They were crispy up until the very last fry, with their delicious spices coating every single one.

We honestly haven’t had something so delicious in a very long time! The flavors were exciting and perfectly complemented each other for my Nashville Sandwich. Imagine spicy, hot southern fried chicken against a refreshing, cold slaw – tied together by slightly tangy pickles and a nice mayo-based sauce that rounds out the sandwich with a hint of sweetness. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

We’re already planning our next trip to Namkeen, when we’re also going to order either the Dhamaka Fries, Chicken and Waffles, or Chicken Tikka Mac & Cheese. Try this restaurant the next time you’re in the area or make a road trip out of it. The food is that damn good!

Pro Tips:

• The place gets busy on weekends. To avoid the crowds and lines, either go during weekdays or non-peak hours.
• If you’re getting take out, get your coleslaw on the side. Otherwise, be prepared for a potentially soggy bun by the time you get home!

Restaurant Info:

• Address & Directions: 233 Main St, Chatham, NJ 07928