Jasmeet “Jazz” Baduwalia grew up in two kitchens. At his father’s restaurant, he’d watch his father work the line. At home, the bold flavors of Indian home cooking shaped him from a young age. Long before his acting career—he’s best known as the Blue Power Ranger in Power Rangers Beast Morphers—food was how his family showed love and brought people together.
Jazz; his brothers Navraj and Sukhraj; and their father, Binder, opened Desi Flavors in May. It’s a fast-casual Indian spot where you pick your base—basmati rice bowl, burrito or warm naan wrap—and then load it up with proteins like butter chicken, before adding fresh chutneys, sauces and toppings.
Desi Flavors is located at 9475 Double R Blvd. Visit www.desiflavorsreno.com.
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten locally in the last month?
(At) Camaron Pelado in Sparks, I had their molcajete with three meats, served sizzling in a volcanic stone bowl, and it was outstanding. Highly recommend.
Your kitchen is on fire! (Metaphorically.) What are you cooking?
If my kitchen’s on fire, I’m definitely making spicy chicken ramen. The broth is my favorite part.
Who is/was your strongest culinary influence?
My dad is definitely my strongest culinary influence. He owned the first Indian restaurant in Reno, SS Super, then owned Taste of India and sold it in 2010. After retiring for 16 years, he’s back and bringing the same enthusiasm and authentic flavors.
What is your go-to midnight snack?
A big bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch with almond milk.
Which local restaurant deserves more attention and why?
Carnitas y Tortas Ahogadas Guadalajara in Reno. They serve the best Mexican food in town and definitely deserve way more attention. You have to try their tortas—they’re delicious.
How does food contribute to our community?
Food brings people together, and Indian food has always done that for my family. A lot of folks in Reno have only experienced it in a traditional sit-down restaurant setting. With Desi Flavors, we wanted to show a more casual, fun side—and make those bold flavors easy to enjoy, whether you already love Indian food or you’re trying it for the first time. Everyone knows butter chicken. Now picture it stuffed in a warm naan wrap. Simple but delicious.
What is the one thing you won’t eat?
I’m not the most adventurous eater. I tend to stick with the basics.
Please share your favorite food memory from growing up.
Coming home from school and my dad surprising us with a different dish every week. We never knew what he was going to make, and it always gave us something to look forward to.
What is the one kitchen tool you can’t live without?
A sharp knife. A sharp knife is a safe knife.
What has been your most memorable meal?
It has to be from my visits to India—a naan wrap with chicken tikka masala and a side of mango lassi.