A couple of weeks ago, Eater put into words a trend that many of us have been seeing sprouting: Indian food is suddenly a fast-casual powerhouse. It's joining the ranks of cuisines we all readily associate with quick counter service, most notably greasy American fast food and Chipotle-style Mexican joints. On the other hand, no one is predicting South African food will be the next big trend in downscale dining. Except, perhaps, the gentlemen behind Peli Peli.

Today, they officially opened what they hope will be only the first location of Peli Peli Kitchen. Last December, chef Paul Friedman, who owns all three Peli Peli restaurants along with Thomas Nguyen and Michael Tran, said the partners have set their hopes on having 10 or more locations of the chain in every metropolitan area in the United States. But first things first.

The flagship PPK opened today and will serve food seven days a week from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. at 9090 Katy Freeway. At a media tasting last night, the large staff cooked up a sizable portion of the menu. Above, a sampling of what the diners tried.

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