Zach Heng
Google
Imagine walking through the streets of Southeast Asia lined with food stalls, echoes of locals chatting, and surrounded with intoxicating aromas. Some of those aromas would likely come from a humble plate of chicken rice (commonly known as Hainanese Chicken Rice) with accents of ginger, chilis, and other fragrant herbs. If you've ever been to Singapore or Malaysia, you likely know exactly what I'm talking about. A dish that was, at one point, not available anywhere in the Greater DC area has finally made it's way here. Kindi is run by an extremely passionate and friendly duo, Nelly and Jacky, and brought the Thai version of chicken rice "Khao Man Gai" to Chantilly, VA. My family lineage can be traced by to the Hainan province so I couldn't be more excited.
I had the opportunity to try the Kindi Combo, Crispy Chicken Wontons, and Sriracha Wings. The Kindi Combo combines their two chicken preparations into a heavenly bowl of their signature Khao Man Gai (poached chicken) and the fried marinated chicken served atop simmered rice with Thai herbs garnished with fresh cucumber and cilantro. Drizzled with the homemade ginger and garlic sauce, it was nostalgic and comforting thoroughly enjoying every single bite. The wontons were a bit light on the chicken filling, but addictively crispy. The wings were flavor bombs with tasty heat.
Overall, the food is one of a kind. They might specialize in chicken rice, but definitely don't sleep on the other delectable offerings. So take a culinary trip to Southeast Asia with one of the most beloved street foods. You won't regret it. It's a truly authentic experience... one that I intend on visiting over and over again.