Namaste Nepalese Restaurant - Adelaide
Having lived in the Unley area for a good portion of my life (i.e. my childhood), driving down Duthy Street (and continuing onto George Street) pretty much becomes a mundane element of one’s daily routine. Throughout my many years of collecting the kilometres, I’ve probably driven past Namaste Nepalese Restaurant countless times and never even realised it was there. OH THE SHAME.
The scene takes place on a Monday evening - dinner with a good friend. A mix of Indian and Tibetan influences, Nepalese food is easy, subtle and fulfilling.
Has anyone seen that Helen Mirren movie? The Hundred-foot journey? The interior reminded me of the Indian restaurant in the film….very traditional and intricately decorated - with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Slightly cramped, but comfortable nonetheless.
Emma and I started with the mixed entree. Combination of Momo, Tareko Machha, Samosa, Sekewa and Phulaura served with a mint and yoghurt sauce and a tomato (achar) sauce. $15.50
I didn’t get much enjoyment out of the sauces - but the meat and seafood components were superb. The proteins were lean and tender, and the samosa and Phulaura were crisp and well cooked. The flavours were well proportioned. Sufficient serving size for two people.
Moving onto mains…..Piro Dherai Tarkari (hot Nepalese curry) Lamb, chicken or goat cooked with Nepali style spicy onion and tomato paste, enhance with fresh coriander. $24.50
Emma liked the sound of the goat curry, but not being a fan of spicy food - we aksed a milder version. The waitress was very accommodating to our request.
The curry was terrific. Lean and tender goat pieces in a rich and thick sauce with delicate hints of Nepalese spices. Proportional and well balanced.
Badami Sekewa (Almond Chicken) - chicken fillet lightly marinated in a creamy yoghurt sauce with ginger, garlic and lemon juice, enriched with almond paste and cooked in a charcoal clay oven. Served with a mint and yoghurt sauce. $23.50
OH-MA-GAWWWD the chicken was sublime. The meat was juicy and tender, the yoghurt and spices combined with the aromatic taste of almonds working in flawless harmony. The dish was completed by lightly drizzling the mint/yoghurt sauce, providing somewhat of a euphoric pleasure of the senses - smooth, creamy and delightfully robust.
I found the service average. Our waiter was friendly, but seemed to have trouble grasping simple tasks. When I asked for a peppermint tea, we were provided with a dessert menu. SIGH.
I’m not sure if I was expecting something more from the experience, but the service (to an extent) put a damper on the evening. Especially when I know there are similar restaurants in the area (with superior service levels) that offer the same high quality food. Nevertheless, our dishes were marvellous, the location was convenient, and the atmosphere offered that oh so perfect date night ambience.
Tonight’s experience - good, but not great.
Until next time, happy eats :)
