Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna and restaurateur Jimmy Rizvi recently opened Bungalow, an Indian restaurant in the East Village that brings a touch of sophistication to the neighborhood. The restaurant is located in a luxury building on the site of the original Lucky Cheng’s, offering a refined dining experience in a quiet section of East Second Street. As guests step through the flower-covered doors, they are transported to an elegant space reminiscent of Mumbai.
Bungalow opens with a grand entrance featuring stairs that descend like the Golden Temple, leading to an Indian-style country club with a library, rattan furniture, and a stunning skylit space filled with greenery. This design is inspired by the large homes and extended families of the past, reflecting a sense of culture and tradition. Khanna and Rizvi aimed to create a comforting and welcoming environment for guests to enjoy.
The restaurant has quickly gained popularity, with a recent weekend night having a reported 2,000 names on the waitlist for the 125-person capacity venue. Reservations are booked well into May, demonstrating the high demand for dining at Bungalow. Despite the challenges of securing a table, Khanna and Rizvi have focused on creating a sense of community and culture through their food, with each guest receiving a warm greeting.
The menu at Bungalow features a refined take on regional Indian-inspired cuisine, with many dishes incorporating imported ingredients to maintain authenticity. From crispy papadum to pan-fried lamb chops and tandoori salmon, the restaurant offers a diverse selection of dishes that showcase the flavors of India. Khanna’s goal is to attract a wide range of diners, from young patrons to grandparents, fostering generations of guests who appreciate the cuisine and ambiance.
In addition to the food, the attention to detail in the decor is evident throughout the restaurant. Rizvi’s sister, Shaila, curated the space using bespoke wood furniture and handcrafted items imported from India. The decor reflects a rich cultural heritage and took 15 months to complete, with custom-made elements such as chandeliers, tableware, and wall lights adding to the unique ambiance of Bungalow.
The distinctive drinks list at Bungalow includes creative cocktails inspired by Indian festivals and flavors, such as the Holi Moli spicy mezcal margarita and the Coco the Elephant rum-and-coconut water concoction. Even the choice of bouquets from the Chelsea Flower District is intentional, with flowers like tuberose and green almonds symbolizing community and celebration. Khanna hopes that Bungalow will serve as a gathering place that celebrates the diversity and beauty of Indian culture, creating a vibrant community in the heart of the East Village.
