You’ve probably seen the photos. Hundreds of chili pepper lights and shimmering Christmas ornaments dangling so low they basically graze your scalp. It’s a neon fever dream tucked away in a narrow East Village second-floor walk-up. Panna II Garden New York NY is more than just a place to grab a curry; it’s a polarizing NYC institution that people either worship for the vibes or criticize for the chaos.
Honestly, the first time you walk up those cramped stairs at 93 1st Avenue, you’ll feel like you’re entering a secret clubhouse. Or a very festive closet. The smell of cumin and sizzling tandoori hits you immediately, followed by the sight of Bashir Khan’s legendary "over-the-top" decor. It's loud. It’s tight. It’s 100% New York.
But behind the Instagram-famous ceiling, there’s a weirdly competitive history and some practical "local" rules you need to know before you show up with a six-pack of beer and high expectations.
The Great "Curry Row" Rivalry
For years, the biggest drama on 1st Avenue wasn't in a Broadway play. It was the "war of the lights" between Panna II and its neighbor, Milon. They shared the same landing, the same staircase, and almost identical menus. If you stood at the top of the stairs, you’d have two different guys—"barkers"—basically trying to pull you into their specific doorway.
Milon fans swore by the left door. Panna loyalists swore by the right.
✨ Don't miss: Boynton Beach Boat Parade: What You Actually Need to Know Before You Go
There were rumors they shared a kitchen. There were rumors they were owned by feuding brothers. In reality, Milon opened first in 1982, and Panna II followed in 1989. Bashir Khan, Panna’s owner, famously claims he was the one who started the light trend to drum up business when things were slow.
Here’s the thing: Milon actually closed its doors during the pandemic. For a minute, the "left side" went dark. But in a twist of fate, Panna II eventually expanded into that space. The rivalry is technically over, but the chaotic energy of having two identical-looking rooms filled with thousands of lights remains.
What to Actually Order (and What to Skip)
Let's be real. Nobody is claiming this is the best Indian food in the five boroughs. If you want Michelin-star plating, you’re in the wrong neighborhood. But for the price point? It’s solid, comfort-food-style Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine.
The "Must-Haves":
🔗 Read more: Bootcut Pants for Men: Why the 70s Silhouette is Making a Massive Comeback
- Coconut Samosas: These are the sleeper hit. Most people get the vegetable ones, but the coconut version is sweet, flaky, and weirdly addictive.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: It’s the standard for a reason. Creamy, familiar, and hard to mess up.
- Lamb Saag: The spinach is usually well-spiced and helps cut through some of the heavier fried appetizers.
- Mango Lassi: You’ll need this to cool down, especially since the "Vindaloo" here is no joke. If you tell them you want it spicy, they will actually try to hurt you.
The appetizers can sometimes be a bit dry, especially the fried bhajis, so definitely lean on the chutneys. Also, keep in mind they often offer "set menus" for groups. It’s usually around $17–$25 per person and includes a bunch of courses. It’s the easiest way to eat if you’re with a big crew, though the individual portions are huge regardless.
The Logistics: Cash, Beer, and Elbows
Panna II Garden is an experience you have to manage. You can’t just roll in at 8:00 PM on a Saturday and expect a seat.
BYOB is the Golden Rule. There’s no liquor license here, which is why your bill stays so low. Stop at the bodega on the corner and grab some Taj Mahal beers or a bottle of wine. The servers are pros—they’ll have your bottles open before you’ve even sat down.
Cash or Venmo Only. Don't be that person who reaches for a Visa at the end of the night. They don't take cards. They’ve recently started accepting Venmo, but honestly, having cash is just faster and keeps the grumpy (but secretly nice) waitstaff happy.
💡 You might also like: Bondage and Being Tied Up: A Realistic Look at Safety, Psychology, and Why People Do It
The Space Issue. If you are claustrophobic, maybe skip this one. The tables are inches apart. You will hear every detail of the breakup happening at the table next to you. You will probably get hit by a stray coat sleeve. It’s part of the charm, but it’s definitely "cozy" in the way NYC real estate agents use the word to describe a literal shoebox.
Why Birthdays Are So Chaotic
If you tell the staff it’s someone's birthday, be prepared. They don't just bring out a cupcake. They kill the main lights, turn on a disco ball, and blast a high-energy, techno-remix version of "Happy Birthday" while the whole room claps.
On a busy night, this happens about every fifteen minutes. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic proposal spot? This is not it. If you want to feel like you’re inside a Bollywood-themed rave for three minutes? This is exactly it.
How to Get the Best Experience
- Go on a Weekday: If you go on a Tuesday at 6:00 PM, you can actually breathe. Saturday nights are a 90-minute wait, even with a "reservation."
- Watch Your Head: Seriously. The lights hang low. If you’re over six feet tall, you’re going to be ducking the whole way to your table.
- Check the Hours: They generally open at 2:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM or midnight. They used to be closed on Fridays, but it's always worth a quick call to (212) 598-4610 to check if they’re doing a private event.
- The "Special" Dessert: Usually, they’ll bring out a complimentary scoop of mango ice cream at the end. It’s the perfect palate cleanser after all that spice.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning a visit to Panna II Garden, here is exactly how to handle it:
- Check your wallet: Make sure you have at least $40 in cash per person to cover food, tip, and potential "extras."
- Coordinate the BYOB: Don't buy warm beer. Grab a cold six-pack from the deli on 1st Ave just minutes before you head up.
- Call ahead: Even though "reservations" are loose, calling a day before for a group of 6+ is essential.
- Dress for heat: With thousands of lights and a small space, it gets warm in there regardless of the season. Wear layers.
- Limit your party size: Groups of 2–4 are seated way faster than groups of 10. If you have a massive group, expect to be split up or wait significantly longer.
Panna II Garden New York NY isn't about culinary perfection—it’s about the fact that for one hour, you get to eat curry inside a neon kaleidoscope while a waiter sprints past you with a sizzling tray of tandoori. It’s a sensory overload that somehow feels exactly like what the East Village is supposed to be.