Mark A.
Yelp
I tutor in the area and stopped here on the way to a lesson, looking for a quick Chicken Roti. I've tried a few Roti places on Flatbush, so I wanted to give Utica a try.
"Why not go to the place that says 'Roti House' in big, bold letters on the front?" I said, blindly guessing at the quality of the establishment. I took a real gamble. (I could not find this place on Yelp because I searched for "Roti House" and not "A & C Guyana Bakery & Restaurant."--my mistake, right?).
I came in at about 8pm and the place was pretty empty except for one person ahead of me (Honestly, if he hadn't been there I probably would have turned around and left). Was anyone even here? I nervously entered--as one would a quiet and open, crater-filled plain in rural Bosnia--and, to my relief, I noticed two women behind the counter. Then I became nervous again. The food had all been put away for the night, so I was worried I'd have to leave...again.
But, to my great surprise, the women soon took my order with a pleasant smile and patience. Apparently, they just cleaned all the food out of the containers and had some on a back counter, ready to be served.
"I'll take the chicken roti," I said. "Is that boneless or with bones?" (seasoned Roti eaters, from what I've learned, prefer it with bones because the meat is more tender).
"With bones" she said, still smiling.
"Sounds good."
Within minutes, the Roti came out, nicely wrapped in paper; well-presented. Feeling hungry, I also ordered an impulse beef patty. Total cost: $7.50.
I ended up eating the food at my students' house--being of Caribean descent, he was impressed that I even tried Roti, which made me laugh. Even funnier was when I said I liked Indian food and he was equally astonished. I mean, Roti basically chicken curry inside a thin piece of naan (purists may disagree).
Taste: it was good, but not the best. This place does not stack up against De Hot Pot, but beats Ali's Roti House (on Flatbush). The curry flavor is potent and wonderful, but was just missing the rich mix of ingredients that others--well, one--have. But, hey, it's Roti: street food that should, in my book, never be analyzed too thoroughly--unless its a truly dreadful experience. I give this place a three because it was just average, compared to the throngs of other roti houses that populate East Flatbush/LPG. If you've never had Roti and want to try it, this place will suit your needs.
If you find yourself on the (1) B35 going East, (2) are short on time, and (3) have a hankering for curry--make a stop at Church and Utica and go grab yourself a Roti. This place might not be the best, but it'll leave your mouth happy.
