Karma Modern Indian: Out with the Old, In with the FREAKIN' AWESOME New

A restaurant is only as good as its owner’s vision, and those selected to implement that vision. When Karma Modern Indian owners Sachin Mahajan and Ricky Singh imagined an inventive take on traditional Indian fare [with a kick-a** bar program], they employed the ever talented Ajay Kumar and Dominik Lenikowski as their Executive Chef and Bar Director, respectively. What was once an idea to fill a niche in Washington, quickly became a reality just over one year ago. And let me tell you, this team got it spot on.

When I first arrived to Karma, I received the warmest of welcomes, and met Co-Owner Ricky Singh. What distinctly stood out in our conversation was his unique career path. Most of his career, up until that point, was in a different industry. Yet, he knew he wasn’t as fulfilled as he could be. He had the desire to create a compelling new restaurant, and so was birthed Karma. Now, I know that to start, own, and successfully maintain a top-notch restaurant requires passion – your whole heart must be in it. After a fantastic evening at Karma, there no doubt Mr. Singh is all in.

I also enjoyed meeting Bar Director Dominik Lenikowski. Let me just say he is a genius. Within seconds of discussing each of the guest’s favorite flavors in a beverage, he headed back to the bar, and shortly returned with a drink that each person loved. It was like, “YOU CAN READ MINDS?” Check out the first photo below and you will understand! (While we are on this topic, I need to announce that Karma just launched its Fall Cocktails, and they sound incredible!)

I now realize I’ve been typing for three paragraphs and haven’t even mentioned food yet. Well, here is my big shoutout to Executive Chef Ajay Kumar. My meal was abundantly flavorful, rich in spices, and packed with the freshest of fruits, vegetables, and protein. While quality Indian food at its core, Mr. Kumar added fun color, plating, and twists to keep me on my toes. I left extremely full, yet I felt that I ate very healthfully. Very satisfied, now I just need to make my next trip back to try the dishes I didn’t get to!

Enjoy the photos from my experience at Karma Modern Indian. And when you’re finished, please head over there for a meal of your own!

Note: Forgot to take a photo of the Mushroom Biryani – it’s delish, get it.