23rd Street Cafe is a fusion experience



By Tanaya Ghosh

Listen to an audio story from Annenberg Radio News.

Ever craved Indian food and Mexican food at the same time, and couldn’t decide where to go? Why not take both cuisines and roll them up into a burrito? That’s what 23rd Street Cafe does, and it does it well.

imageInside 23rd Street Cafe. (Photo by Tanaya Ghosh)

This place blends cuisines together seamlessly. If you’ve ever wondered what a samosa sandwich or a chicken curry taco tastes like, here’s your chance to taste for yourself.

23rd Street Café is on the corner of Portland Street and 23rd Street, just south of Downtown LA. It’s decorated in USC colors and memorabilia, and its close proximity to USC makes this humble yet spacious
eatery a popular destination for students. But the eclectic menu that combines Indian, Mexican and American fare appeals to local residents as well.

The breakfast burrito and chicken tikka masala burrito are some of the most popular items on the menu. The breakfast burrito’s fluffy egg contrasts nicely with the crispy strips of bacon. Hash browns blanket
the interior, and give the burrito more body and bite.

imageThe chicken tikka masala burrito combines the popular Indian dish with traditional burrito fillings. Chicken tikka masala consists of roasted chicken chunks, called tikka. The chicken is covered in a spicy,
or masala, sauce often made with tomato puree, cream and spices. If that’s not spicy enough for you, try adding the tangy house salsa verde to your burrito of choice.

Being of Indian heritage, I can tell you that although tikka masala is not a household staple, it is a popular dish with Indians and non-Indians alike. It’s perfect for eating out, or for special occasions.

The tikka masala burrito was a bit messier to eat than its breakfast counterpart, so I wouldn’t recommend ordering it on a first date!

For more information on 23rd Street Cafe, you can visit their website here.