2 for $20

Zyggyz Indian Grill

What do you get when you combine a college campus, fresh Indian food and a hot-sauce scale ranging from 1 to 10? Zyggyz Indian Grill, a quick-serve concept owner Jay Patel tested in Champaign near the University of Illinois earlier this year (he opened on Super Bowl Sunday) before bringing it to Loyola country in Rogers Park two weeks ago.

Patel, who was born in India and got his nickname, Zyggy, growing up in the U.S., aims to introduce folks to Indian food that won't break the bank. Thanks to his restaurant's insta-popularity in Champaign and the already growing following of neighborhood visitors and Loyola students at its newest location, the collegiate path seems to be paying off. But Patel's strategy doesn't stop at plopping locations near schools.

For those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine, Zyggyz provides an easy initiation, from the welcoming vibe of colorful walls depicting an Indian beach scene to the straightforward menu, shortened slightly from the one in Champaign. Step up to the long counter inside and a server will walk you through the menu offerings, including various combinations of tikka masala (a yogurt-based dish served with naan), falafel and Patel's signature Zyggy rolls.