Halal, Vegetarian and more in Decatur, Georgia
I have always prided myself on being inclusive and embracing of all people, but I've realized over the past 4 years that I still have a lot to learn about diversity, equity and inclusion (don't we all). However, engaging in a conversation with a person of color is very different from seeing the world through their eyes on a daily basis.
So, when my middle son began dating someone who is Bangladeshi, I was humbled yet again. There is so much to learn about not only her but also her food, family and traditions. One of the many gifts has been her recommendations about food in the Atlanta area (she knows I'm a foodie). Case in point, Indian cuisine in Decatur, Georgia - specifically Patel Plaza and Zyka.
VIBE
If you Google "best Indian restaurants in Atlanta" pretty much all of them will be in Decatur.
This is AUTHENTIC Indian cuisine, and I recommend being open-minded and adventurous.
This is an area where South Asian people in Atlanta go for not only halal groceries but also authentic restaurants and shopping. If you visit, be respectful of their community!
RECOMMENDATIONS
Zyka's Chicken 65 is the best chicken I've put in my mouth! There is a great deal of lore surrounding this dish, but all you need to know going into it is that this bright, red dish is marinaded chicken thighs (with too many spices to list here) which provide a definite kick at the finish. It's crunchy on the outside and incredibly moist on the inside.
Patel Plaza has an abundance of Indian restaurants to choose from. One standout is Kailash Parbat. This is vegetarian Indian cuisine at its finest! Enjoy cocktails and zesty dishes where you will not miss the meat.
Do some shopping in Patel Plaza. There is really a lot to experience here.