By: Sean Boelman

Due to its growing population, the Bay Area in California is also known for its burgeoning culinary scene. After all, the Bay Area is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse demographic of people from all over the world, so it is only fitting that the restaurants in the area would be equally diverse. For those looking to dip their toes into the diverse culinary waters of the Bay Area, there are few options more exciting than Desi Contemporary Indian Casual.

Since opening in December 2019 in the heart of the Bay Area in California, Desi Contemporary Indian Casual has made a name for itself as one of the pioneers of Cal Indian cuisine destinations in the Bay Area and USA thanks to its unique, delicious menu. Offering a relaxed, social dining atmosphere and an extensive menu with plenty of options available all day, Desi is an excellent place for Bay Area residents and visitors alike to enjoy a quick meal, a leisurely dining experience, or even order for delivery via an online app.

Blending traditional Indian flavors with international influences

What makes Desi Contemporary Indian Casual stand out from other South Asian restaurants in the Bay Area is its menu, which comprises delicious Indian street food with influences from around the world. Canny diners will see dishes on Desi’s menu that are influenced by other culinary traditions like Italian cuisine, Mediterranean cuisine, contemporary American cuisine, Latin American cuisine, and more, like their butter chicken or Pindi Chole Kulcha chalupa tacos and Gujia Empanadas. The result is an unforgettable culinary experience that ranks not only among the best Indian restaurants in the California Bay Area but also among the best restaurants there in general.

Diners would be hard-pressed to find another Indian restaurant in the Bay Area with as impressively vast a menu as Desi’s, but every dish is crafted with love and care. They offer dishes of all sizes, from large entrees to make a luxurious yet affordable meal to “street eats” that are perfect for an appetizer or late-night snack. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your craving for a contemporary spin on traditional Indian food or want to try something new, Desi has something for you.

However, one of the most unique things about Desi’s menu is its DIY menu. Along with their menu of chef-inspired dishes like blackened chicken or coastal grilled fish, diners can design their meal with the restaurant’s DIY bowls, rolls, tacos, and salads. These dishes allow diners to choose their base, protein, sauces, veggies, and garnishes to create their ideal contemporary Indian meal. Because of the many combinations customers can make with this DIY menu, this adds yet another layer of variety and versatility to Desi’s culinary offerings. 

A welcoming atmosphere to enjoy great food

The elements that help make a great restaurant are just as much about its atmosphere and overall feel of the space as the food it offers. With a location in downtown Campbell, Desi is perfectly situated for any foodie in the Bay Area or Silicon Valley. 

The restaurant also boasts an inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests from all backgrounds to connect over contemporary Indian food and drinks. The dining room is colorful, featuring upbeat global music, TVs showcasing international sports matches, and decor with a flair of contemporary Indian culture, making the physical space feel just as vibrant as the food itself.

Desi is also home to Gaburu Bar, a craft cocktail bar designed to compliment each diner’s mood, offering a varied selection of cocktails, each of which is paired with how you are feeling. The cocktails are based on the seven pillars of a craft cocktail history but with a spin using Indian ingredients, such as the Aaja Nachle based on a Daiquiri with Rum and Paan with famous Indian leaf and rose petal jelly flavors, or the Patiala Old Fashioned with organic date syrup or Royal Ginfield with Amla (Indian gooseberry) flavors. 

Rather than traditional menu groupings, Gabru sorts its cocktail list into sections like “cheerful & lighthearted,” “romantic & effervescence,” “humorous & reflective,” “mysterious & adventurous,” and more so guests can choose a drink based on how they are feeling in the moment. Each cocktail is also creatively named, containing a hidden meaning that guests can look up after enjoying it.

Acclaim for Desi Contemporary Indian Casual

Because of its unique spin on Indian cuisine, Desi Contemporary Indian Casual has received remarkable acclaim, positive reviews, and recognition since its opening. Desi was recognized as one of the top 10 Bay Area restaurants of the month in February 2021 by The Perfect Spot and named the Best Casual Contemporary Indian Restaurant in Santa Clara County by Lux Life Magazine in 2022 and 2023. The restaurant also boasts strong ratings and reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp.

If you’re looking for a great spot to grab dinner or go for date night in the Bay Area, look no further than Desi Contemporary Indian Casual. This restaurant features a fantastic blend of casual, traditional, and modern that exemplifies culinary fusion and celebrates the universal nature of great food and drinks.

With an eclectic menu accentuating favorite Indian flavors with influences from around the world, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s hunger at Desi.