First Impression: NaanChing

Paulus Hook's latest restaurant serves Indian, Chinese, and Thai dishes.

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What: NaanChing is a new Indo-Chinese restaurant located at 103 Montgomery, in what used to be the former home of Komegashi.

Interior: The two-floor restaurant has a no-frills, but comfortable interior with bright lights and minimalist decor. The first floor has a few tables upfront accompanied by an odd bar with a higher-than-usual counter. The second floor has a warmer, more inviting vibe with a large table that’s tucked away for larger parties.

The Menu: NaanChing’s 21-page menu (PDF) has something for everyone. At first glance, the menu can be overwhelming, offering everything from Pad Thai to Sichaun Chicken. The priciest entree costs $24 and there are many sub-$20 dishes to choose from. (Our Veggie Shanghai Noodles — pictured below — cost $10.99). The restaurant also has a full bar and offers mocktails and “virgin” drinks.

Shanghai Noodles ($10.99)

We Loved: The Aloo Gobi Masala ($14) is packed with flavors and not excessively oily — like some versions I’ve had. The potatoes are perfectly soft and golden accompanied by crisp florets of cauliflower. Meanwhile, we loved the heat in the aromatic Thai Fish Curry ($22), which includes generous portions of fish.

Could Be Better: NaanChing has a few quirks they need to iron out. The wine list, for instance, has no prices whatsoever, yet we were expected to order blindly from the wine menu. (Needless to say we asked for individual pricing). Service, while friendly, can be slow at times. While most entrees are priced under $24, a few popular dishes are priced higher than other downtown restaurants.

Final Take: If you live in Paulus Hook, NaanChing is a great addition to the area. It’s a cozy spot for solo dining or for those times you’re in the mood for one cuisine, but your friends want something different.

Aloo Gobi Masala ($14)

Thai Fish Curry ($22)Vegetable Samosa ($7)

NaanChing | 103 Montgomery | www.naanching.com