Everest Cafe

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I picked the Everest Cafe purely because it was at the intersection I parked at. I walked across the street and inside and was greeted by a pleasing medley of aromas. Mentioned I wanted to get take out, was handed a menu, picked three items without much forethought, turned to sit down but first waited for the server to walk past carrying a massive skillet of steaming and smoking delight. Don't know what it was, but next time I want that. It made the room hazy and nice smelling the whole time I was there. Without request, I was given a cup of chai which smelled terrific and I held it under my nose during much of my wait. (Didn't drink it though. Too hot, for one thing.) I suspect it was a tea with milk and cinnamon, but no matter what it was, it smelled great. And everyone was supernice throughout. The place has only 11 tables and was about half full (8pm on a Thursday). All very pleasant.

I ordered:

Bheda Ko Masu Ra Saag Boneless lamb cubes mixed with spinach curry and homemade herbs and spices. ($11.99)

Chicken Thukpa Special nepali dish of sherpa. Noodles, fresh vegetables and marinated chicken breast with homemade sauce and healthy filling soup. ($6.99)

Garlic Naan ($2.49)

The saag was smaller than I expected, given the price, and was green enough to be an extra on Troll 2 and, even though it was small, didn't have a lot of flavor. That last complaint can go for the bread as well (save fifty cents and just get the plain naan --- something I've been thinking almost every time I buy garlic naan anywhere).

The thukpa however was amazing. Absolutely terrific. The chicken seemed a but overdone, but the flavors were great. Lots of cilantro, but with equally forceful counterpoints. Great soup. I would get that again.

One general note, when I ordered and was asked how spicy I wanted things, I said "Pretty spicy"; I'm not sure how he interpreted that but nothing was spicy. A few pepper flakes in the soup but no kick in the other dishes at all. Which would have definitely helped the saag.

So: Prices reasonable. Food good. Chicken thukpa great. Service stellar. Smells outstanding. Atmosphere cozy.

Check it out.