In a bid to spice up the classic deli sandwich, Fonty's Deli + Dukaan in New York's West Village has taken inspiration from Viraj Borkar's Indian heritage to create bold and unexpected flavors that are anything but typical.
Borkar, co-founder of the eatery, is on a mission to redefine what we think of as a deli sandwich. Gone are the days of traditional cold cuts and cheeses; instead, he brings an "Indian-ish" flair to his offerings, infusing each bite with the vibrant flavors of India.
"I'm inspired by my homeland," Borkar says. "In India, we have a rich culinary tradition that's all about bold spices and vibrant flavors. I wanted to bring those same flavors here in New York."
At Fonty's Deli + Dukaan, customers can now indulge in sandwiches like the Chicken Tikka Panini, which pairs tender chicken with melted mozzarella cheese, cilantro-lime chutney, and crunchy bacon, all on toasted sourdough bread. Another popular option is the Lamb Rogan Josh Sandwich, featuring slow-cooked lamb shoulder, pickled onions, cucumber raita, and mint-coriander chutney.
While some may be skeptical about the idea of Indian flavors in a classic deli sandwich, Borkar's passion for his heritage shines through in every bite. His restaurant is not just a place to grab a quick lunch; it's an immersive culinary experience that transports customers to the streets of India.
"I want people to feel like they're experiencing India without leaving New York," he says. "Our food is meant to be bold and exciting, with flavors that will leave you wanting more."
Whether you're a fan of traditional deli fare or just looking for something new and adventurous, Fonty's Deli + Dukaan is definitely worth checking out. So go ahead, take a bite of the Chicken Tikka Panini – your taste buds may just thank you.
As for Borkar's vision, he hopes that his restaurant will not only satisfy customers' cravings but also inspire them to try new things and explore different cuisines. In an increasingly globalized world, the concept of "Indian-ish" is no longer a novelty; it's a fusion of flavors that are meant to be shared.
"I want people to feel like they're part of something bigger than themselves," he says. "Food has the power to bring us together and take us on a journey. That's what I'm trying to do here at Fonty's Deli + Dukaan."
Borkar, co-founder of the eatery, is on a mission to redefine what we think of as a deli sandwich. Gone are the days of traditional cold cuts and cheeses; instead, he brings an "Indian-ish" flair to his offerings, infusing each bite with the vibrant flavors of India.
"I'm inspired by my homeland," Borkar says. "In India, we have a rich culinary tradition that's all about bold spices and vibrant flavors. I wanted to bring those same flavors here in New York."
At Fonty's Deli + Dukaan, customers can now indulge in sandwiches like the Chicken Tikka Panini, which pairs tender chicken with melted mozzarella cheese, cilantro-lime chutney, and crunchy bacon, all on toasted sourdough bread. Another popular option is the Lamb Rogan Josh Sandwich, featuring slow-cooked lamb shoulder, pickled onions, cucumber raita, and mint-coriander chutney.
While some may be skeptical about the idea of Indian flavors in a classic deli sandwich, Borkar's passion for his heritage shines through in every bite. His restaurant is not just a place to grab a quick lunch; it's an immersive culinary experience that transports customers to the streets of India.
"I want people to feel like they're experiencing India without leaving New York," he says. "Our food is meant to be bold and exciting, with flavors that will leave you wanting more."
Whether you're a fan of traditional deli fare or just looking for something new and adventurous, Fonty's Deli + Dukaan is definitely worth checking out. So go ahead, take a bite of the Chicken Tikka Panini – your taste buds may just thank you.
As for Borkar's vision, he hopes that his restaurant will not only satisfy customers' cravings but also inspire them to try new things and explore different cuisines. In an increasingly globalized world, the concept of "Indian-ish" is no longer a novelty; it's a fusion of flavors that are meant to be shared.
"I want people to feel like they're part of something bigger than themselves," he says. "Food has the power to bring us together and take us on a journey. That's what I'm trying to do here at Fonty's Deli + Dukaan."
this is soooo suspicious, like, why now? they're just trying to control our minds with all these new flavors 
. think about it, every food joint is doing this same "fusion" thing and what's next? a sandwich that tastes like nothing at all 
. borkar's trying to sell us on the idea of india, but i'm onto him... 
his restaurant is just a front for something bigger. mark my words 
. The fusion of spices and ingredients like cilantro-lime chutney and mint-coriander chutney adds a delightful layer of complexity to the traditional cold cuts and cheeses. However, what I find most appealing about Fonty's Deli + Dukaan is its potential for cross-cultural exchange and understanding 
. By embracing the bold flavors of India, Borkar's restaurant offers an immersive experience that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also inspires exploration and discovery 
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. Taking inspiration from Viraj Borkar's Indian heritage and blending it with modern flavors is genius. I love that they're not just serving up traditional cold cuts and cheeses, but rather bold spices and vibrant flavors that are meant to be shared. The idea of "Indian-ish" fusion cuisine feels so on point for this globalized world we live in 
. It's exciting to think about the possibilities of new and adventurous food experiences. And I gotta say, who wouldn't want to try a Chicken Tikka Panini or a Lamb Rogan Josh Sandwich? The fact that Borkar wants people to feel like they're experiencing India without leaving New York is super cool 
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The idea of a Chicken Tikka Panini and Lamb Rogan Josh Sandwich might sound weird at first, but hey, if you're feeling adventurous, go for it! 
I mean, who doesn't love trying new food experiences? And it's cool that the owner is passionate about sharing his heritage with others. Maybe we'll see a whole new wave of fusion cuisine happen because of this? 
️. Now they're gonna throw some Indian flavors in there? I mean, I guess if you like that sorta thing... But honestly, who needs chicken tikka panini when you can have something that's actually gonna hurt your stomach after eating too much cheese? 
And don't even get me started on the prices, $15 for a sandwich with all those fancy spices and whatnot? 
Just another reason to be disappointed in the state of food inflation these days... 
been reading about viraj borkar's journey and his passion for sharing indians rich culinary traditions with the world. his chicken tikka panini sounds insane! have you guys tried it yet?
I mean, who wouldn't want spicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and crunchy bacon on sourdough bread? It's like a flavor bomb just waiting to blow your taste buds away! 
And don't even get me started on the Lamb Rogan Josh Sandwich... slow-cooked lamb shoulder is giving me all the feels 
. I'm so down for trying out new foodie spots, and Fonty's Deli + Dukaan sounds like an absolute must-try! 
that's what makes food so exciting - trying new things and discovering new flavors 
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I'm def going to have to check out this Fonty's Deli + Dukaan ASAP