Cheeni Indian Food Emporium, led by chef Preeti Waas, has opened its doors at Horseshoe in Hub RTP, bringing a new regional Indian dining option to the Research Triangle Park area. The restaurant began serving lunch on December 17 and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The new location occupies more than 3,000 square feet on the ground floor of Horseshoe and adds to Waas’ presence in Hub RTP, where she also operates Nanny Goat. Cheeni’s opening marks an expansion of culinary offerings at the development and reflects Waas’ ongoing investment in the region.
“We are pleased to welcome Cheeni to Horseshoe and to support Chef Preeti as she broadens her footprint within Hub RTP,” said Erik Johnson, co-founder and partner at White Point. “Her focus on quality, consistency and community engagement aligns with our long-term vision for the property. The addition of Cheeni, alongside Nanny Goat, enhances the overall experience for office tenants, residents and visitors.”
Cheeni offers a menu inspired by homestyle Indian cooking rooted in regional traditions and personal heritage. The Durham location has been recognized for its approach to Indian cuisine; this standard will continue at Horseshoe. While initially open only for lunch service, plans are underway to expand hours and menu options in coming months. The restaurant also features private dining space available for evening events such as corporate functions or special gatherings.
“I am pleased to introduce Cheeni at Horseshoe,” said Preeti Waas. “The support for Nanny Goat has been strong, and I look forward to working collaboratively with White Point and the Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina as we continue to grow within Hub RTP.”
Amy Waas, daughter of Preeti Waas and James Beard Award nominee for her work on The Bar Beej at Cheeni Durham, will help shape the beverage program at the new site. As operating hours increase, Amy plans to develop a bar menu featuring classic cocktails with Indian influences along with women-driven wines and house-made mixers.
Located at 3151 Elion Dr., Suite 101, Cheeni overlooks the Horseshoe courtyard and live music stage. Online ordering from this location is expected next week. The restaurant will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Other retailers now open at Horseshoe include Nanny Goat and DRIFT Coffee & Kitchen; Di Fara Pizza Tavern, Prime STQ, and High Horse are set to join them in 2026.
Horseshoe at Hub RTP serves as a central gathering point within Hub RTP, which is designed as a mixed-use district supporting business activity as well as community engagement across its office spaces, retail options—including restaurants—and recreational amenities connected by regional trails (https://horseshoeatthehub.com).
Hub RTP is planned as a downtown district that will eventually feature up to one million square feet of office space along with hotel rooms (source), multifamily residential units, parks totaling sixteen acres—including Burdens Creek—and over twenty miles of connected trails.
For further information about leasing or amenities at Horseshoe or Hub RTP visit their respective websites: horseshoeatthehub.com or hub.rtp.org.
