Perhaps more than any other current chef in Oakland, Preeti Mistry has ascended to household name status. That meant her second restaurant, Navi Kitchen, received a ton of hype. While her first spot, Juhu Beach Club, thrives on intense spice levels and layered textures, Navi’s American-meets-Indian dishes are far simpler. The best ones comfort in their familiarity, with an extra jolt of something special. There’s tikka masala mac ’n’ cheese, Indian pizza, and lovely breakfast sandwiches, though not everything meets the high standard we’ve come to expect from Mistry. Regardless, it feels good to support a place that focuses on community and donates to local nonprofits. Serves breakfast, lunch, early dinner Wed.-Sun.
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