Image: The board of fare.

Last Updated: May 2024

Overview:

Masala Story fits in the category of a neighborhood place punching above its weight.  It is far from fancy with picnic tables and counter services, but the food is done with care and can sneak in a good surprise.  On our visit it was the mahi mahi chunks grilled then immersed in a cashew-based curry.  The options are numerous and vegan and/or vegetarian dishes are central, including a tame but tasty baingan bhartha.

Part of the allure is a decent area for the bar and a large outdoor space (enclosed by plastic when weather necessitates it).  Beer, wine, and some spirits are available.  They might ask if you want a splash of rum in your mango lassi.

It opened on the same stretch of road as the great Menomale and Primrose (two places that deserve a drive out of the way).  It may remind you of another Indian neighborhood go-to.  Originally started as a spinoff of Indigo in NoMa, but “family matters” meant it was ultimately independent in formal terms even if it feels similar.

Other Guidance:  The entrance is at street level but there are a couple interior steps.  Vegan options are clearly marked and vegetarian options are numerous, as well as GF. 

Summary:

Cuisine: Indian
Neighborhood: Brookland
Address: 3301 12th St NE #4008, Washington, DC 20017
Website: https://www.masalastorydc.com/
Reservations: Walk-in

Other Critics/Voices:

Washington Post: Carman on the backstory and pretty strong recommendation. “Masala Story is not a photocopy of Indigo. It’s more of a Photoshopped version — enhanced, sharpened and sometimes even better.”

Washingtonian: Cheap Eats 2019.