Indian Newcomer Pappe Is Awash in Charming Details

The fledgling hospitality team behind neighborhood eatery Pappe is putting the finishing touches on its alluring Indian restaurant.

An opening date for the 85-seat establishment (1317 14th Street NW) remains in flux. But the space is beautifully laid out and looks ready to entice diners looking for something new along the 14th Street corridor.

The forthcoming restaurant, which draws inspiration from New Delhi’s bustling and colorful fabric markets, is the brainchild of chefs Sanjay Mandhaiya and Shankar Puthran from Saffron restaurant in Falls Church, Virginia, and first-time restaurateur Vipul Kapila.

Having committed the look and feel of India’s open air markets to memory while traveling abroad, designer Melissa Funkey aimed to add brightness and texture throughout the space “without trying too hard,” she told Eater last month. Flowing fabrics are draped throughout. Meticulous tile work catches the eye here and there. Some cultural touchstones — like ornate mirrors, trays, and glassware — made the long trip over from India, while worn-in wooden cabinets (one is housed behind the bar) came from Baltimore thrift stores.

While the opening menu is still being finalized, likely offerings include: chicken tikka masala; bone-in goat with garlic tomato chutney and red curry; spicy vindaloo; and some Southern Indian seafood dishes.

Scroll down to see pictures of the nearly ready restaurant:

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

Rey Lopez/Eater DC

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