In the heart of the DMV’s dynamic and ever-evolving culinary scene, Chaatwala has quickly carved out a name for itself by offering something genuinely unique—authentic Indian street food, lovingly prepared and served with care. Founded by Jai, a seasoned entrepreneur with a personal passion for chaat, the restaurant brings the vibrant flavors of India’s streets to American diners in a way that is bold, fresh, and deeply nostalgic.
But behind the flavorful dishes and the restaurant’s growing acclaim is a quiet force of nature—a woman whose courage, resilience, and dedication have helped transform Chaatwala into what it is today.
That Woman Is Kulwinder
Kulwinder’s journey began in India, where her dream of working in the food industry was born. Years later, she made the life-altering decision to move to the United States alone, leaving behind her husband and children in hopes of building a better life for her family. It was a leap of faith, fueled by determination and an unwavering belief in her dream: to one day be part of a restaurant where food wasn’t just cooked, but crafted with heart.
That Dream Found Its Home at Chaatwala
Jai, who launched the restaurant after a successful run of entrepreneurial ventures, had grown up eating chaat with his father on the bustling streets of India. When he moved to the U.S., he noticed that while Indian cuisine was widely available, the rich, layered world of street food was still largely absent. He started Chaatwala as a pop-up during the pandemic, and the overwhelming response confirmed what he suspected—there was a hunger for these vibrant, snack-sized dishes.
As the restaurant evolved into a permanent space, Jai brought on Kulwinder—a decision that would shape the very core of Chaatwala’s operations. With her deep understanding of Indian flavors, her strong work ethic, and an uncompromising approach to quality, Kulwinder quickly became an essential part of the restaurant’s identity.
She’s Not Just in Charge of the Kitchen—She’s the Heart of It
Kulwinder insists on making everything from scratch, from the tangy tamarind chutney to the crisp puris and savory toppings. Her standards are high, and she never cuts corners. “If it’s not good enough for my family, it’s not good enough for our guests,” she says. That philosophy has become a guiding principle at Chaatwala, where every dish is a reflection of care, authenticity, and respect for tradition.
But Kulwinder’s impact goes far beyond the food. She has redefined the way the restaurant approaches service. For her, every guest is more than just a customer—they’re family. Her warm, welcoming presence sets the tone for the entire team. Staff and diners alike feel her influence: calm, focused, and always rooted in kindness.
Jai often credits Kulwinder for helping Chaatwala grow not just in popularity, but in spirit. Her leadership has brought consistency, heart, and a level of excellence that keeps people coming back, not just for the food, but for the experience.
As Chaatwala prepares to open its second location in Maryland, it’s clear that the foundation laid by Kulwinder will continue to guide its future. She is living proof that behind every successful venture is often a woman whose strength, sacrifice, and passion make it all possible.
Kulwinder didn’t set out to be in the spotlight, but her story deserves to be told. She is a reminder that dreams don’t have deadlines, and that when given the opportunity, women can—and do—transform the world around them, one delicious dish at a time.
Published by Joseph T.
