When you think of Indian restaurants in the Philippines, do you envision opulent decors, vintage vibes, and a traditional menu? A new Boracay hotspot wants you to experience the more modern and trendy side of India.

Little Taj started out as a pandemic idea. Shria and Patrick Florencio, the Boracay power couple behind the famous Nonie’s in Station X and Muchos in Station 1, were adapting to the zigzagging levels of quarantine in the island in 2020. They put up a cloud kitchen that served authentic Indian curry and chaats, which you could cross-order through Nonie’s restaurant.

The concept became a hit with both locals and tourists alike. Soon they opened Little Taj: Boracay’s Curry House in Station X’s Street Market (food court). As tourism returned to almost regular programming, so did Little Taj’s pop-up events and parties, such as 2021’s Bollywood Bonanza.

On May 2022, Little Taj: Indian Steet Kitchen moved to its new and bigger home in D’Mall, where you’ll find some of the most happening bars, restaurants, and party spots in Boracay. It’s tucked in its own cool corner, in the alleyway between Aria and Epic. Their menu is a mix of traditional eats and modernized drinks.

If you’re coming for lunch, you’ll find a quiet respite from Station 2’s elbow-to-elbow situation. Shria wanted to pay homage to her Indian roots and share the flavors she grew up loving. Their menu is a showcase of various regions’ specialties. Indulge in the famous dosas of Southern India, the Papdi Chaat made in the Northern Indian style, curries from across the regions, chaats from North to South, and mouthwatering Biryanis. For fans of Indian food, you’ll find your favorites here, such as the Butter Chicken, Masala Dosa, Hyderabadi Biryani, and Palak Paneer. Also try their homemade Lassis, the traditional dahi (yogurt)–based drink.

Come nighttime, the place transforms into a hip little Mumbai. Whether you’re there for Happy Hour or dinner onwards, their award-winning bartenders are ready to serve curated cocktails with modern Indian flair. Try the Dirty Lassi, mango lassi with rum, or the Mumbai Mule, a spicy twist on the Moscow Mule.

Catch “Indian Eats + DJ Beats” from Fridays to Sundays at 8pm onwards with Boracay’s top DJs, such as DJ Justine and DJ Q2. They’re also organizing Boracay’s biggest Diwali party this October 22, 2022 from 6pm onwards. Celebrate their Festival of Light and get free henna hand tattoos, traditional Mithai box giveaways, and special drinks. Party the night away with their guest drummers, DJs, booths, and bollypop infusions!

As they say in India, “Jhakaas. Chalo!” (Awesome. Let’s go!)

Little Taj Indian Steet Kitchen is located at D’Mall in Station2, Boracay (in the alleyway between Aria and Epic) and is open daily from 10am to 12mn. For reservations, contact +63969-149-0070.

Klook.com