From biryani to burgers, a new restaurant is bringing the flavor to Concord
Indian cuisine is on the rise all over the Charlotte area, and a new fast-casual option is coming soon near Concord Mills mall.
A new location of Desi District — which first opened its doors in the area last fall in Pineville — will open July 3 at 4 p.m. in the 5,200-square-foot Concord space that was formerly The Peppers and Biryani Nation. Chandu Gangidi and Shyam Padamati co-own the spot.
Now, customers will find more than 300 menu items to choose from, including biryanis, tandoori selections and curry dishes that you can’t find in other restaurants. The restaurant will have a full bar, so you can order a cocktail to pair with your meal.
“It’s more Indian authentic, street-style food you cannot find in any other location,” Gangidi told CharlotteFive, noting that all regions of India are covered, plus Nepalese momos.
Gangidi has plenty of favorite items, but among his top choices are the Bombay Chicken Grill sandwich and the Juicy Chicken Mandi, which he describes as a South Indian rice dish similar to a biryani, “but more flavorful” — with sauces similar to Middle Eastern chicken or lamb served over rice.
Desi District also offers Indian fusion fare like Indo-Chinese noodle dishes, burgers, tacos and pasta, along with a Charlotte-specific Desi District Fit Menu of items under 500 calories with 30-50 grams of protein and under 10 grams of net carbs.
It’s all freshly made right there in the kitchen, ready to order and eat quickly.
Unlike the Pineville location, Desi District’s Concord spot won’t carry grocery items. There is plenty of outdoor space to sit outside and hang out, with ample shade and parking.
Growth in the Charlotte area’s Indian cuisine options and grocery stores has boomed in recent years — especially in suburban areas. Tikka Shack and Tandoor Indian Cuisine have opened in the past year in Rock Hill, and Fort Mill is now home to three Indian restaurants — Persis Indian Grill, Cholanodu and Dosa n’ More.
A Trevini Supermarket location is also on the way in Tega Cay, joining locations in Concord and Pineville. There’s also a Trevini Express location in University City, where Soma Bistro opened earlier this month.
At Desi District’s newest location, a family-friendly celebration will mark the grand opening, with activities including a bounce house and face painting.
Desi District
Location: 8524 Pit Stop Ct NW, Concord, NC 28027 (opening July 3)
Location: 120 N Cedar St #765, Charlotte, NC 28202
Location: 11812 Carolina Pl Pkwy A, Pineville, NC 28134
Cuisine: Indian
Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Instagram: @desi.district.charlotte
