Authentic flavor. Heartfelt hospitality. Raleigh roots.

In this episode of Best of Raleigh, Gretchen Coley sits down with Ajit, founder of Jalwa Indian Bistro, one of North Raleigh’s most talked-about new restaurants near Northridge Country Club. After years in the banking world, Ajit followed his passion for food and people, bringing a world-class dining experience to the Triangle.

Born from a love of authentic Indian cuisine, Jalwa blends bold regional flavors with modern presentation, transforming how Raleigh experiences Indian food. From zero-waste cooking and handcrafted cocktails to a menu that balances spice, freshness, and creativity, every dish tells a story of heritage and heart.

Ajit shares his journey from corporate life to culinary entrepreneurship, his mission to elevate Indian dining beyond the expected curry and naan, and how Jalwa became a place where community and culture meet around the table.

If you love great food, local stories, and conversations that celebrate Raleigh’s global flavor, this episode is for you.

🎧 Best of Raleigh — curated by The Coley Group, the #1 Compass team in the Triangle.

Subscribe for new episodes every Friday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.