This week on The Best of Raleigh, Gretchen sat down with Ajit Pal Singh Khanna, owner of Jalwa Indian Bistro, a restaurant that has quickly become one of North Raleigh’s most inspired dining experiences. Tucked into the Mecca shopping center near Northridge Country Club, Jalwa may appear understated from the outside—but step through the door, and you’re transported. The space, the service, and most of all, the food tell the story of a passion project built on culture, community, and culinary artistry.

A Restaurant Born From Passion and Purpose

Ajit moved to Raleigh in 2008 after a career in the banking industry—an unexpected beginning for a future restaurateur. But as he shared, losing his job in 2024 felt like a sign: an opportunity to pursue the passion he’d held close since childhood.

Dining around the world—London, New York, L.A.—Ajit noticed something missing in Raleigh: a truly elevated Indian culinary experience rooted in authenticity, technique, and warmth. Many locals were traveling to Cary or Morrisville for Indian food, only to find that the depth and diversity of India’s regional flavors still weren’t represented.

So Ajit decided to bring those flavors home.

Reintroducing Raleigh to the Depth of Indian Cuisine

One of Ajit’s biggest goals is to expand Raleigh’s understanding of Indian cuisine beyond the basics: curry and naan. India’s culinary landscape shifts every few miles—spices, techniques, and even the language of food transforms from region to region. Jalwa’s menu captures that depth with thoughtful dishes, balanced spice profiles, and remarkable presentation.

From cocktails to desserts, Jalwa is an experience in flavor progression. Nothing is overwhelming. Everything is intentional.

And the response has been incredible. Guests travel from Greensboro, Charlotte—even farther—after hearing about Jalwa’s approach and seeing the stunning presentation online. Indian diners often tell Ajit they’ve never tasted certain dishes prepared with such care.

A Zero-Waste Kitchen Built on Respect

One of the most impressive parts of Jalwa’s philosophy is its commitment to a zero-waste kitchen.

Nothing is wasted. Everything has purpose.

From repurposing onion skins for flavor elements to avoiding preservatives, MSG, and artificial colors, the kitchen reflects both sustainability and cultural values. Ajit’s upbringing—rooted in resilience, resourcefulness, and doing the right thing—shaped his restaurant’s ethos.

“We make our food with the utmost care, and we serve it with love and kindness,” he shared. And you can feel it.

The Chef Behind the Art

Jalwa’s culinary magic is brought to life by Chef Moukesh Gautam, whose experience spans high-end restaurants and authentic Indian street food vendors. That dual perspective—luxury technique balanced with generational tradition—gives Jalwa’s dishes their signature soul.

Street food staples, like their samosa chaat, are elevated and refined. Meanwhile, high-end dishes like the seabass moly, goat rogan josh, and Kashmiri lamb shank have become crowd favorites, each layered with perfectly balanced spices.

Craft Cocktails With a Twist

Even the cocktail program is crafted with intention. Jalwa brews their own juices—not from cans—which results in vibrant, layered drinks like:

• Pondichari Passion
• Tart Temptation
• Madras Magic Martini

Each one arrives at the table with breathtaking presentation and fresh, bright flavor.

Dessert That Delights the Kid in All of Us

Ask Ajit about his favorite dessert, and he lights up.

The White Wine Popsicle is not only a guest favorite—it’s an experience.

Made with white wine, coconut milk, saffron imported from India, fresh berries, and served over dramatic dry ice, it’s nostalgic, playful, and beautifully executed. Guests say it brings a smile to their face with the very first bite—and that is exactly the point.

A Space That Reflects Raleigh

When choosing where to plant roots, Ajit fell in love with Raleigh’s warmth, hospitality, and diversity. He wanted to build a place that reflects the city’s multicultural spirit while giving locals access to high-quality Indian cuisine without driving 40 minutes across town.

Today, Jalwa has become a true North Raleigh gem—conveniently located, beautifully designed, and powered by Ajit’s heart for service.

Visit Jalwa Indian Bistro

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or completely new to it, Jalwa offers an elevated, welcoming experience that celebrates the richness of Indian flavors in a way Raleigh has never seen.

612 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh
jalwaindianbistro.com
@jalwaindianbistronc