Desi Contemporary Indian Casual has been revolutionizing global cuisine in the Bay Area since it opened in December 2019 — just months before the world shut down due to the pandemic. Their growth through one of the most difficult times for new restaurants is a testament not only to their unique approach but also to their delectable take on fusion. “At Desi, we believe that the world’s cuisines are more similar than different,” co-founder Mohit Nagrath told Chicago’s WGN TV.

The Bay Area is experiencing a resurgence in population, with young professionals trickling back into the area, and with them comes money to spend and an infusion of new restaurant ideas and desires. This influx of diverse personalities has meant that the Bay Area offers an equally diverse bevy of restaurants to cater to all palates. Nagrath and his team have created Desi not only to appeal to those who like Indian cuisine but also to those looking for something just a bit different and worldly from their cuisine, where cultures combine to create new tastes.

Making Waves In Contemporary Cuisine

Desi Contemporary Indian Casual and the Gabru Bar have emerged as pioneers of what is known as “Cal Indian Cuisine,” but their taste combinations stretch far beyond flavors inspired by their home state of California. Desi has found a perfect harmony between traditional Indian street food and international delicacies. “It’s truly intriguing to observe the remarkable resemblances between some of our distinctive dishes, which, at first glance, may appear worlds apart,” explains Nagrath. “Our culinary innovations showcase the universal love that transcends culinary boundaries.” Desi has worked hard to perfect the casual dining experience many Bay Area professionals enjoy. It’s a great place to be social after work, meet up with friends, or even take a first date with an ample menu where everyone can easily find something to enjoy.

Indeed, Desi’s menu is what sets them apart from the South Asian competition. “Indian food has come a long way,” says Nagrath. “We’ve stepped up to the plate to satisfy diverse tastes.” While Indian food has already been known to embrace the global tapestry of tastes, Desi is expanding on this with infusions of Italian, Latin, Mexican, and Caribbean influences — to name just a few — with plans to introduce Chinese influences in future dishes. Delicacies such as their Gujia empanada, the Punjab to California via London, the Blackened Chicken or Salmon Bowl, or Cal-Indo Shake allow Bay Area foodies to sample a variety of flavors.

It’s All About Variety

Diners who believe walking into Desi is just like dining at any Indian restaurant will be pleasantly surprised to find a vast menu awaiting them. Whether someone is just in the mood for some quick street food, a cocktail with appetizers, or a complete prix fixe menu, Desi has you covered. They can accommodate large groups of up to 120 people, making it the perfect place for your next birthday gathering or even a small wedding reception! One unique twist on the traditional menu that Desi offers is the DIY menu option, which allows diners to design their own custom bowls, rolls, or tacos by choosing a base, protein, sauces, vegetables, and garnishes. The DIY options can be made with Desi’s popular main dishes, such as minced lamb curry or spicy curried jackfruit.

Craft Cocktails And A Great Vibe

Desi is nestled in the foodie hub of downtown Campbell, California — a hip suburb of San Francisco that offers a distinctly contemporary vibe. With a vibrant interior and a welcoming feel, Desi is perfect for a cozy, romantic dinner or even getting together with friends to watch the big game. There are nods to Indian culture peppered throughout the space, and even tie-ins with the global infusion of the food through world music and the industrial feel popular in many modern American restaurants.

The Gabru bar is a fabulous addition to Desi, offering a host of craft cocktails to complement any menu item a diner may choose, and even stands alone as a destination for people visiting downtown Campbell. Along with its unique craft cocktail offerings, the Gabru bar also offers favorite beers, wine, and even specially curated Indian beverages. Guests can use the cocktail descriptions to guide their choices, from “romantic and effervescent” options to “mysterious and adventurous.” One could curate an entire culinary and cocktail experience depending on their mood.

Featured in Plate magazine, the Perfect Spot Top 10 Bay Area Restaurants of the Month, and Flavor & the Menu, Desi is already garnering a name for itself among discerning diners and cocktail connoisseurs. Offering a diverse menu that seamlessly blends traditional Indian food with global influences and an array of expertly crafted cocktails, there truly is something for everyone at Desi. Whether you’re an avid lover of Indian cuisine or seeking a unique culinary adventure, Desi Contemporary Indian Casual and Gabru stand as a testament to the art of fusion, creating an inclusive and unforgettable dining experience.