Authentic Tibetan & Nepalese dishes, comforting & hearty fare with bold flavors. A must-try for delicious, spicy, and satisfying meals.
Nestled in the East Village, Cafe Himalaya is an unassuming spot that serves up incredibly comforting and authentic Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine. This gem is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its bold flavors, satisfying spice levels, and hearty portions. Whether you're craving a soul-warming bowl of Thukpa, flavorful Chili Chicken, or delicate momos, Cafe Himalaya consistently delivers a delicious experience that feels like a warm hug. It's the kind of place that makes you want to support a local business and keep coming back for more.
Cafe Himalaya is celebrated for its authentic Tibetan and Nepalese fare. Standout dishes include the Thukpa (a hearty noodle soup) and the Chili Chicken, which is noted for its balanced spice level. The momos are also popular, though one review suggested other spots might offer superior versions. Other highly recommended items are the sha thukpa and pan-fried sha momo, described as comforting and delicious. The Chili Dofu is also praised for its flavor absorption. The food is generally described as bold, balanced, and satisfyingly spicy.
"The sha thukpa and pan-fried sha momo are highly recommended for their comforting and delicious qualities. Chili Chicken and Chili Dofu are also praised as must-try dishes for their unique flavors and textures."
Customers have a very positive sentiment towards Cafe Himalaya, frequently praising its authentic Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine. Many highlight the comforting and hearty nature of the dishes, with several calling it a favorite or a hidden gem. The affordability and consistent quality also contribute to the overall positive feedback, with some patrons traveling specifically for their dishes.
Important Note
One user found the momos at Cafe Himalaya to be not as great as those found in Jackson Heights, suggesting other spots might offer superior versions.
"The user is surprised that Cafe Himalaya, a restaurant not known for a strong social media presence, made it onto the list of top upvoted restaurants."
Neutral"A user recommends Cafe Himalaya, stating it is an amazing place."
Positive"The original poster confirms that Cafe Himalaya remains affordable and delicious, based on their long-time patronage of businesses on that corner."
Positive"A user expresses fondness for Cafe Himalaya, noting it was very delicious and affordable years ago, hoping it remains so."
Positive"A user states that the Chili Dofu is the best dish at Cafe Himalaya, highlighting its firm, porous tofu texture that absorbs the sauce well."
Positive"A user considers Cafe Himalaya a gem and very tasty overall, but specifically found their momos to not be great, suggesting other momo spots in Jackson Heights offer superior options."
Neutral"A user highly recommends the chili chicken from Cafe Himalaya, noting it's not overly spicy and is the star dish."
Positive"A user describes Cafe Himalaya as consistently satisfying, claiming its momos are more rewarding than Bitcoin. They confirm the authenticity of its Tibetan cuisine, finding it comparable to homeland offerings after a recent trip to Bhutan, and sometimes travels from Midtown just for their thukpa."
Positive"A user calls Cafe Himalaya one of their favorite spots and says Thukpa is their go-to order."
Positive"A user states that Cafe Himalaya was one of their favorites years ago and thanks the original poster for the reminder."
Positive"A user praises Cafe Himalaya as a great place."
Positive"A user expresses strong affection for Cafe Himalaya."
Positive"The original poster describes Cafe Himalaya as an unassuming spot in the East Village serving hearty, comforting Tibetan food that is bold, balanced, and spicy, highlighting the sha thukpa and sha momo panfried as go-to orders. They found the food hit the spot after a long work day, comparing it to a warm hug, and encourage supporting local businesses."
Positive"Recommends Cafe Himalaya."
Neutral"The author recommends Cafe Himalaya."
Positive"Lists Chili Chicken from Cafe Himalaya (on 1st and 1st) as one of their top, cheap chicken spots, calling the place amazing."
Positive"Thang or Thukpa from Cafe Himalaya"
Neutral