The inaugural Butter Chicken Festival will take place in the DMV from October 13-20, featuring top local restaurants showcasing their unique versions of the popular dish. From “Butter Chicken tacos to burritos and spaghetti,” participating chefs will present creative twists on the classic recipe, with a portion of sales supporting World Central Kitchen (WCK), Chef José Andrés’ non-profit focused on providing meals during crises.
Additional information: “The festival will culminate in a special event featuring a live cooking demo and book signing with Monica Saigal (Bhide), acclaimed storyteller and author of 13 books, including her latest children’s book, Papa’s Butter Chicken, set to launch in early October 2024. With a foreword by Chef José Andrés, the book emphasizes the importance of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.
Participating Restaurants and Special Butter Chicken Dishes:
- Pappe
- Address: 1317 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
- Phone: (202) 888-8220
- Website: pappedc.com
- Commonwealth Indian
- Address: 11900 Market St, Reston, VA 20190
- Phone: (703) 956-6166
- Website: commonwealthindian.com
- Rasa
- Address: 1247 First St SE, Washington, DC 20003
- Phone: (202) 804-5678
- Website: rasa.co
- Celebration by Rupa Vira
- Address: 44260 Ice Rink Plaza, Ste 120, Ashburn, VA 20147
- Phone: (571) 281-2233
- Website: celebrationva.com
- MITA
- Address: 1280 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
- Phone: (202) 450-4155
- Website: mitadc.com
- Cranes
- Address: 724 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Phone: (202) 525-4900
- Website: cranes-dc.com
- Karma Modern Indian
- Address: 611 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001
- Phone: (202) 898-0393
- Website: karmamodernindian.com
- Casa Teresa
- Address: 919 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20006
- Phone: (202) 856-7979
- Website: teresadc.com
- Chiko
- Address: 423 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
- Phone: (202) 558-9934
- Website: eat_chiko.com
- Rangoli
- Address: 4906 Fairmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814
- Phone: (301) 656-4444
- Website: rangolirestaurant.com
- Taco Bamba
- Address: 10629 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032
- Phone: (571) 395-8280
- Website: tacobamba.com
Each restaurant’s unique Butter Chicken creation will be featured on their menus from October 13 to October 20, inviting diners to experience new and exciting flavors while supporting a great cause.
“Butter Chicken is more than just a dish—it’s a bridge between cultures, flavors, and traditions,” said Monica Saigal. “Through this festival, we aim to celebrate its universal appeal while supporting World Central Kitchen’s mission to provide meals in times of crisis. I’m thrilled to have so many talented chefs join in this effort and look forward to sharing my new book with the community.”
Event Highlights:
- Book Signing with Monica Saigal: Monica will have a book signing on October 20th, Butter Chicken Day, at the Fairfax County Library (6450 Sydenstricker Road, Burke VA 22032) from 3:00 – 4:30PM. Register in this link.
- Support for World Central Kitchen: A portion of proceeds from each Butter Chicken dish sold will directly support World Central Kitchen’s humanitarian efforts around the globe.
- Social Media Amplification: Restaurants and chefs are encouraged to share their Butter Chicken dishes on social media using the hashtag #PapasButterChickenFestival. Monica Saigal will promote participating venues on her platforms, bringing additional attention to the chefs’ creativity.
The Butter Chicken Festival is a celebration of food, community, and giving back. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Butter Chicken or eager to explore new variations, this week-long festival promises to delight taste buds while supporting a meaningful cause.”