Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Both locals and tourists flock to this unpretentious family-run place for possibly the best
momos
(dumplings)in town (try the chicken ones). The kitchen here is a nonstop
momo
production line. You can also get soupy Tibetan butter tea and tasty
thenthuk
(noodle
soup).
Utse Restaurant
TIBETAN
( 4253417; Jyatha Rd; mains Rs 180-400)
In the hotel of the same name, this is one of the longest-running restaurants in Thamel and
it turns out excellent Tibetan dishes, including unusual Tibetan desserts such as
dhayshi
(sweet rice, curd and raisins) that you won't find anywhere else. The traditional decor feels
lifted straight from an old Lhasa backstreet. For a group blowout,
gacok
(also spelt
gyakok
) is a form of hotpot named after the brass tureen that is heated at the table (Rs 780
for two). The set meals are a worthy extravagance.
Yak Restaurant
TIBETAN
We always find ourselves returning to this unpretentious and reliable Tibetan-run place at
the southern end of Thamel. The booths give it a 'Tibetan diner' vibe and the clientele is a
mix of trekkers, Sherpa guides and local Tibetans who come to shoot the breeze over a
tube of
tongba
(hot millet beer). The menu includes Tibetan dishes, with good
kothey
(fried momos), and some Indian dishes, at unbeatable prices. It feels just like a trekking
lodge, down to that familiar electronic sound of a chicken being strangled every time a
dish leaves the kitchen.
Third Eye
INDIAN
( 4260160;
www.thirdeyerestaurant.com
;
JP School Rd; mains Rs 475-650)
Next door to Yin Yang, and run by the same people, this is another long-running favourite,
popular with well-heeled tourists. Book a window seat at the sit-down section at the front
or try the more informal section with low tables and cushions at the back; both are
candlelit to create an intimate vibe. Indian food is the speciality and the tandoori dishes are
especially good, even if the portions are a bit small. Spice levels are set at 'tourist' so let
the efficient (if not friendly) suited waitstaff know if you'd like extra heat.
