Urban Tadka is one of a growing number of Indian chaat and street food restaurants in Karama. There must be nearly a dozen similarly themed eateries within a one-kilometer radius, starting with Chaat Bazaar literally three doors down. Throughout the winter and surprisingly during some of the summer too, Urban Tadka is very much an outdoor restaurant. And that may be because of the tree in the middle of the broad pavement under which they (the restaurateurs) have built a shaded dining area. It’s a nostalgic, familiar place. That said, they have a cool and comfortable indoor dining area too.
Indoor 
The sweet counter 
Outdoor 
That’s my uncle on the phone…
Their Pani Puri is very good. However, I strongly recommend you have them make and serve you the golgappas or phuchkas as they are also known as, one-by-one while standing at the chaat counter. This will be very difficult if there’s a crowd, I appreciate that, but the difference is vast. Also try their Bhel Puri and Dhai Puri, they’re both delicious. Note, if you are a non-Indian and like me able to take some heat, specifically ask them to spice it up otherwise they will by default serve you the least spicy version which is still nice but with absolutely no kick.
Bhel Puri 
Pani Puri 
Dhai Puri
The guys behind the outside counter are a friendly, accommodating bunch. Prices are reasonable and portion sizes quite generous. The question I have been asking myself since my last visit there is whether or not I will come back because, good as Urban Tadka is, there are so many amazing alternatives out there these days. Nothing I had wowed me enough to discourage me from continuing my search for the best chaat allrounder in Dubai. All I can say is that my favourite Pani Puri till date is from the Chatori Gali in Barsha.
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