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Indian barbecue eatery 'Choolaah' to open in Nebraska Union
Choolaah Indian BBQ to debut at University of Nebraska–Lincoln, bringing customizable Indian flavors to campus dining
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 22, Apr 2026
- 16:22 EDT
- 22
Choolaah, the first Indian-inspired concept for the Nebraska Union. / Rendering by Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture/Nebraska Today
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is set to introduce Choolaah Indian BBQ as part of a major revamp of its Nebraska Union dining space, marking the first Indian-inspired concept to be featured at the campus hub.
Scheduled to open in early fall 2026, Choolaah’s arrival reflects a broader push by the university to diversify dining options and introduce globally inspired cuisine to students.
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“This isn’t just about adding restaurants,” said Lucas Novotny, executive director of housing, dining and the Nebraska unions. “It’s about creating a more intentional dining experience where each concept brings something different to the table.”
The restaurant, known for its bold flavors and customizable bowls, wraps, and masalas, blends traditional Indian cooking techniques with a fast-casual format designed for convenience and accessibility.
The menu features naan wraps and street-style snacks such as samosas topped with chickpea masala, non-GMO yogurt, and sweet and tangy sauces or the classic pav bhaji.
The concept also offers build-your-own bowls, allowing customers to select from proteins including chicken, lamb, salmon, paneer, veggie croquettes, tofu, or roasted vegetables, paired with white or brown rice and a choice of masalas such as tikka, chickpea, black lentil daal, or yellow lentil daal.
Founded in 2017, Choolaah, which means “oven,” focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients and caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, including vegetarians, and vegans, as well as those following dairy-free, grain-free, gluten-free, and egg-free diets.
Its offerings are made using authentic spices imported directly from India, focusing on delivering flavor without excessive heat, while offering optional house-made chili sauces "Whoa," "Ouch" or "OMG" for those seeking a spicier experience.
Beverage options will include mango lassi, chai tea, mango lemonade, and mint ginger lemonade.
The university has announced that the upcoming dining commons will cater to students, faculty, staff, and visitors, especially during major campus events such as the Husker game days.
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