For a lifelong vegetarian like myself, Indian food has long been a reliable option when I’m looking for restaurants. Kansas City has quite a few awesome full service Indian restaurants like Taj Mahal and Korma Sutra, but not much when it comes to fast casual. Tikka Twist brings Indian fast casual to Kansas City with a restaurant that implements new concepts like letting the diner customize their food at the order counter.
Last week I went with trusty Dining Companion #1 to Tikka Twist to give their concept a try, while marking another restaurant off my Top Five to Try list. We sampled several of the mains but ended up getting different versions of the same main, the Biryani Bowl. I opted for a bowl with the Chickpea Masala (a favorite dish) with rice. Onions, cucumber salad, and cilantro for toppings and their cucumber raita sauce for the dressing. Dining Companion #1 had the owl, but with the special Lentil main. I sampled the lentil main and it was packed with flavor and kick.
Like Chipotle and similar concepts, you start by picking the format/style of your meal: Biryani Bowl (choice of rice), Kati Rolls (flat breads), Salad Bowl, Taco, or Feast (pick three proteins). You then select your main entrée with options including Chicken Tikka, Lamb Meatballs, Pulled Pork Vindaloo, and Butter Chicken. You can add even more toppings like greens, pickled onions, cabbage slaw, and more. Finally, there at least eight sauces to choose from. Sides and desserts are also available.
The staff was all friendly and helpful. We were greeted when we came in the door. The counter staff offered us samples. Staff even checked in on us while we were dining.
Tikka Twist also offers a full bar.
My dining companion really liked their meal and said that they would probably come back with the family. We both liked the prices, all the customization options, the flavors, and the possibility of upgrading your meal to a bigger feast. The staff was friendly and outstanding. We will probably add Tikka Twist to our restaurant rotation. And another excellent option for local vegans and vegetarians.
697 NW Blue Parkway, Lees Summit, Missouri 64086, Monday-Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm, Sunday: 10 am – 9 pm
