Sometimes I add Paprika to my pocorn (really good) and to make it stick you just need to add a bit of oil (Olive oil is my favorite). Also, some spices come 'in oil' if you will. (Ground up with a bit of oil -- at least my Israeli Paprika comes that way.)
the best and only places to sit at tabla is at the bar. the kitchen is not only amazing in that the cooks work quickly but also intensely detailed in their presentation and even their cleanliness. tabla is constantly underrated in my book.