The Untold Story Of Punjabi Dhaba (Original 2006): Why Queens’ Iconic Eatery Still Reigns Supreme

Few restaurants achieve true landmark status in a city as diverse and competitive as New York, but Punjabi Dhaba (Original 2006) has done exactly that. Since its founding, this unassuming, family-owned eatery in the heart of South Richmond Hill, Queens, has become an indispensable cultural and culinary anchor for the entire Punjabi community and a destination for food enthusiasts across the tri-state area. As of today, December 10, 2025, the establishment remains a vibrant, bustling hub, continuously earning praise for its authentic, homestyle flavors and generous portions, proving that the simplest food, made with the deepest care, always wins.

The "Original 2006" designation is not just a marketing slogan; it is a proud declaration of heritage and authenticity, setting it apart as the long-standing, genuine article on what locals affectionately call "Punjab Avenue." This article dives into the history, the people, and the must-try menu items that keep this Queens institution at the forefront of the New York Indian food scene.

The Family Behind the Flavor: Navdeep Singh and the Dhaba’s Origin

The success of the Punjabi Dhaba (Original 2006) is rooted in the vision of its founding family and their commitment to preserving the true essence of Punjabi cooking. The restaurant, located at 119-16 101st Ave in South Richmond Hill, Queens, was established in 2006, quickly becoming a beacon for the growing Punjabi and Indo-Caribbean communities in the area. The atmosphere is deliberately casual and unpretentious, designed to mimic the rustic, welcoming feel of a traditional roadside *dhaba* in Punjab, where the focus is entirely on hearty, flavorful food.

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The current owner, Navdeep Singh, has been instrumental in maintaining the restaurant's reputation for quality and community service. While many businesses struggle to stay relevant, Singh's involvement keeps the Dhaba connected to its roots and the neighborhood it serves. The family's story is one of classic immigrant success, starting a business that grew organically through word-of-mouth, a testament to the quality of the food and the warmth of the service.

A Fresh Look at Community Engagement (2024/2025)

In a clear demonstration of its status as a community pillar, the Punjabi Dhaba remains highly active in local cultural events. Most recently, owner Navdeep Singh provided meals for the largest Queens Diwali and Navratri festival and parade, a significant event celebrating the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities. This kind of consistent, high-profile involvement ensures the Dhaba's legacy extends beyond its dining room, cementing its role as a cultural anchor in Queens.

The Authentic Punjabi Dhaba Experience: Why It’s the "Original"

The designation "Original 2006" is a direct response to the proliferation of other Indian restaurants using the popular "Punjabi Dhaba" name. For patrons, it signifies a commitment to the foundational principles of the cuisine: fresh, homestyle, and unapologetically flavorful. The food here is often described as the kind of cooking you would find in a Punjabi home, a clear departure from the more commercialized, Anglicized Indian fare found elsewhere in the city.

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The area of South Richmond Hill, particularly along 101st Avenue, is sometimes referred to as "Little Punjab" or "Punjab Avenue," making the Dhaba’s location central to its identity. This concentration of community and culture provides the perfect environment for an authentic *dhaba* to thrive.

The Culinary Entourage: Must-Try Dishes for Topical Authority

The menu is a masterclass in Punjabi comfort food, appealing heavily to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. To truly experience the Dhaba's excellence, there are several key dishes that generate the most buzz and topical discussion among food critics and loyal customers:

• Chole Bhature: This is arguably the Dhaba's most famous dish—a generous portion of spicy chickpea curry (*chole*) served with large, fluffy, deep-fried bread (*bhature*). Reviewers consistently praise the texture and authentic spice level of the *chole*.
• Tandoori Specials: The Dhaba’s Tandoori oven is central to its operation. Must-try items include the tender and creamy Murgh Malai Tikka, marinated in yogurt and cream, and the classic Tandoori Chicken Tikka, known for its mild, smoky spices.
• Goat Dishes: The restaurant’s Goat Curry and other goat preparations are highly rated for their rich, deep flavors and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, a true sign of homestyle cooking.
• Sweets and Snacks: The sweets section, including the famous *ladoo* and fresh *samosas*, is a significant draw. The quality and freshness of the *mithai* (Indian sweets) often lead customers to purchase them for family events and festivals.
• Vegetarian Delights: Beyond the *chole*, the extensive vegetarian menu features classics like *Dal Makhani* (slow-cooked black lentils) and *Shahi Paneer* (cheese in a rich, creamy gravy), catering perfectly to the large vegetarian segment of the South Asian community.

Navigating the Dhaba Landscape: The South Richmond Hill Food Scene

The presence of the Punjabi Dhaba (Original 2006) on 101st Avenue highlights the unique culinary ecosystem of South Richmond Hill. The area is a vibrant tapestry of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean businesses, making it a crucial hub for authentic regional cuisine. The Dhaba’s success has helped solidify the neighborhood’s reputation as a food destination, attracting diners looking for an experience that transcends typical restaurant dining.

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The focus on quality ingredients, large portions, and affordable prices—hallmarks of a traditional *dhaba*—ensures its continued popularity. The restaurant operates as a catering and sweets provider as well, under "Punjabi Dhaba Catering & Sweets Inc.," offering a full-service culinary experience for the community's needs.

In a city where food trends come and go, the Punjabi Dhaba (Original 2006) stands as a monument to tradition and culinary consistency. It is not just a place to eat; it is a living piece of Queens history, a cultural gathering point, and the undeniable "original" source for authentic Punjabi flavors in New York.