Masala Story

Masala Story

⭐ 4.6/5 (804 reviews) 💰 $20–30 per person Indian

📍 3301 12th St NE #4008, Washington, Washington

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 804 reviews
📍 Address
3301 12th St NE #4008
Washington, Washington 20017
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$20–30 per person
🍽️ Category
Indian

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday12–9 pm
Wednesday12–9 pm
Thursday12–9 pm
Friday11 am–9:30 pm
Saturday11 am–9:30 pm
Sunday11 am–8:30 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Step into Masala Story, a cozy and vibrant Indian restaurant nestled in the heart of Washington, D.C. The moment you enter, you're enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends traditional Indian elements with a modern, casual ambiance. Wooden accents and vibrant tapestries adorn the walls, while plush seating and soft lighting create a comfortable, intimate dining experience.

The menu at Masala Story is a culinary adventure, showcasing a delightful array of authentic Indian dishes. From classic curries and biryani to innovative vegan specialties, the kitchen expertly balances traditional flavors with contemporary flair. Signature items like the Chana Masala, a fragrant chickpea curry, and the Palak Paneer, a creamy spinach and homemade cheese dish, are crowd-pleasing favorites. The wide selection of vegan and vegetarian options caters to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can indulge in the bold, aromatic flavors of the subcontinent.

The attentive and knowledgeable staff at Masala Story are dedicated to providing exceptional service, guiding diners through the menu and offering recommendations tailored to individual tastes. Whether you're enjoying a quick lunch or an indulgent dinner, the team ensures a seamless dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality and value is evident in every bite, making Masala Story a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and memorable Indian culinary experience in Washington, D.C.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Has no-contact delivery Offers delivery On-site services available Offers takeaway Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves comfort food Serves healthy options Quick bite Serves small plates Serves spirits Serves vegan dishes Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch Serves lunch Serves dinner Serves dessert Has seating Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has gender-neutral toilets Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Good for groups Popular with locals Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking Plenty of parking

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Masala Story is like being transported to a cozy nook in the heart of India. The restaurant's decor effortlessly blends modern minimalism with traditional Indian accents, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft lighting casts a gentle glow, accentuating the vibrant spice-inspired artwork adorning the walls and the intricate details of the carved wooden furniture. The overall vibe is one of cultural authenticity and culinary passion, setting the stage for a truly immersive dining experience.

The seating arrangements at Masala Story are thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of dining preferences. Plush, cushioned banquettes line the walls, offering intimate and comfortable seating for couples and small groups, while the well-spaced tables in the center of the room provide ample space for larger gatherings. The subtle background music and the gentle hum of conversation create a cozy and convivial ambiance, making it the perfect setting for savoring the flavors of India while surrounded by a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free curries, rice dishes, and appetizers to accommodate dietary needs.
  • Raw Food Choices - A selection of raw vegan salads, wraps, and vegetable-based entrees for health-conscious patrons.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and protein-based dishes to ensure a safe dining experience.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like cauliflower rice, avocado-based dishes, and nut-based desserts.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Masala Story's weekday lunch offers a quick and convenient option for diners looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy Indian meal during their workday.
  • Friday dinner - As the work week winds down, Masala Story's Friday dinner service provides a cozy and relaxed atmosphere for friends and family to gather and savor their flavorful dishes.
  • Weekend brunch - Masala Story's weekend brunch menu features a variety of Indian-inspired brunch items, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and satisfying weekend dining experience.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Masala Story is renowned for its innovative fusion of classic Indian flavors with contemporary vegan techniques, creating a unique culinary experience that delights both plant-based and non-vegetarian diners.
  • The restaurant sources its ingredients from local organic farms, ensuring the freshness and sustainability of its dishes, and offering a selection of gluten-free and nut-free options to accommodate various dietary needs.
  • The skilled chefs at Masala Story have honed their craft in renowned Indian kitchens, bringing a depth of expertise and passion to their craft, resulting in a menu that showcases the vibrant and complex flavors of the subcontinent.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Masala Story is nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Washington, Washington, surrounded by a lively mix of historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and bustling cultural hubs. Just a short stroll away, visitors can explore the iconic Smithsonian museums, take in the breathtaking views of the National Mall, or immerse themselves in the city's thriving art scene. The restaurant's central location makes it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of authentic Indian cuisine in a dynamic urban setting.

Masala Story's clientele reflects the diversity of the surrounding neighborhood, with a mix of young professionals, families, and foodies drawn to the restaurant's commitment to plant-based, sustainable fare. The casual, cozy atmosphere and attentive service create a welcoming environment where diners can savor the flavors of India and connect with the local community. Whether you're in the mood for a quick lunch or an indulgent dinner, Masala Story offers a unique and memorable dining experience that celebrates the vibrant culture and culinary traditions of the subcontinent.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"03/15/2025- My family decided to go to this restaurant because it is new, it is one block from our kids school, and we l..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I tried the $25 non-vegetarian Indian Thali, which comes with three vegetarian and two non-vegetarian curries, and the $..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Do NOT recommend. *Food had zero flavour. For real, no exaggeration. I've had baby food with more flavour and aroma. …"

— Customer #3
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Good evening Christine. We apologise for the experience you had and would like to make it upto you. Did you get the foo..."

— Customer #4