‘What a beautiful journey’: Beloved Kansas City restaurant closes after 11 years

Traditional Indian/Pakistani restaurant Chai Shai has closed.

In a Facebook post late Tuesday afternoon, the owners said: “This restaurant has been a big part of our lives for over a decade. A couple years ago we started talking about new adventures we might want to pursue and what that might look like for our lives. In order to create the space and time needed for those adventures we’ve decided to close the restaurant effective immediately.

“We thank you for your patronage and support over all these years. More than that, we are so very grateful for the many many friendships we’ve formed along the way. What a beautiful journey these last 11 years have been.”

The owners couldn’t be reached immediately for comment.

But within about an hour the post had nearly 120 comments. Here’s a sampling:

▪ “Such sad news to read - this has been my favorite restaurant in Kansas City. Best wishes on your new ventures!”

▪ “So sad to hear! You and staff were so kind and helpful during every one of our visits. Thank you for being such an amazing restaurant. Best wishes to you in your next adventures!”

▪ “We will miss you so much. I wish I had one more chance... Thank you for ten great years.”

Chai Shai had the corner spot of a little strip center a few blocks south of the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Kashif Tufail opened the cafe, at 651 E. 59th St., with his mother, brother and sister in mid-2010 — with a limited menu of fewer than 20 dishes and a couple of desserts.

Menu items included samosas, spicy mango, lamb roll sandwiches, masala paneer and pakora curry.