NEHA PALACE

By Lilian Peña

 When Diya Ramchandani opened Neha Palace, named after her eldest daughter, Neha, meaning love, she wasn’t just starting a business. She was building a space that blends tradition, resilience, and community. Almost fifteen years later, Neha Palace stands as one of Westchester’s most beloved Indian restaurants, known for its rich flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and an owner whose story inspires as much as the food delights.

Breaking Barriers in the Restaurant World
When Neha Palace first opened its doors, many people couldn’t believe Diya was the owner. “They’d ask to speak to my boss,” she recalls with a smile. In an industry once dominated by men, she faced her share of doubt. But she never let it shake her confidence. Over the years, her professionalism, warmth, and dedication have turned skeptics into loyal customers and friends.

Today, Diya is recognized not only as a talented restaurateur but as a trailblazing woman who has helped change perceptions in the restaurant industry.

Family at the Heart of Every Dish
Diya’s cooking roots run deep. Growing up, she learned from her mother that Indian food is not complicated, it’s about using fresh ingredients, real spices, and never overdoing it. “No additives, no shortcuts,” she says.

Her inspiration also comes from her mother-in-law, who played a pivotal role in raising Diya’s two daughters, Neha and Dipika, especially during the early years of the restaurant. After a long night at work, Diya often came home to a hot, homemade meal, proof that the best food truly is cooked by mothers.

For the first five years, the family worked without taking a salary, driven purely by passion and a belief in their dream. Her husband, daughters, and the whole family have been so supportive. That perseverance is woven into every part of Neha Palace’s story.

A Menu That Wins Hearts
Neha Palace’s menu is a balance of tradition and playful innovation. The Masala Fries, crispy, golden, and dusted with a special spice blend, are a must-try starter. Signature dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala and Lamb Biryani keep regulars coming back for more, while the Goan Curry, made with light coconut milk, is Diya’s personal favorite.

Seafood lovers rave about the Mixed Grill, which features salmon, shrimp, chicken, and more, each piece marinated with spices imported directly from India and cooked to perfection. Warm, fluffy naan rounds out every meal, and seasonal specials keep the menu exciting for returning guests.

The Space: Cozy Meets Grand
Step into Neha Palace and you’ll immediately feel the balance between comfort and elegance. The dining room is airy and family-friendly, perfect for casual meals, while still intimate enough for date nights.

But the real showstopper is the banquet hall, an impressive space that can host up to 200 guests. Weddings, sweet sixteens, birthdays, and corporate events are all celebrated here, with Diya and her team working closely with each host to make every detail special. Guests have even been entertained by belly dancers performing with swords, a testament to the restaurant’s flair for the unexpected.

Community as the Secret Ingredient
For Diya, Neha Palace is about more than food, it’s about connection. “Community means so much,” she says. “You can’t do it alone. The community surrounds you with support and encouragement.” She’s an active supporter of local foundations, giving back to the very people who have championed her restaurant since day one.

Advice for the Next Generation
When asked what she would tell young women starting out in business, Diya’s words are as vibrant as her cooking:

“Don’t give up. I see women as a lotus, and that’s how feel and that’s how I am. You grow in the mud, but when you bloom, you become beautiful. You’ll be different from everyone else, yet you’re going to be amazing.”

Looking Ahead
Neha Palace is celebrating its 15th anniversary with exciting plans. Diya is refreshing the menu with fun, adventurous dishes while keeping her signature philosophy intact: flavorful, fresh, and never overdone.

Why You’ll Love It
Whether you’re stopping by for a weeknight dinner, picking up a takeout order, or hosting the event of a lifetime, Neha Palace delivers more than just food. It delivers love on a plate, seasoned with tradition, community spirit, and the joy of sharing a meal.

Follow Neha Palace on Instagram and Facebook to see the latest dishes, event setups, and behind-the-scenes moments that make it a Westchester gem.