Blended Himalayan Cuisine
Tashi Delek! Two things will happen when you dine at the Himalayan Kitchen in downtown Durango. One, you will experience unique culinary cuisine and, two you will increase your vocabulary! Both will culminate in a refreshing experience unparallel to any in the Four Corners area. That is because the food combines flavors from Nepal, Tibet, and India resulting in a taste that will awaken your body and spirit. Maybe that is how it earned the title “Best Ethnic Food in Durango” in 2011. With outdoor streetside seating in the summer months, this is an excellent dining option for any palate.
Factoring into this equation must be the fact that Owner and Executive Chef, Karma Bhotia, born in the mountains of Nepal and son of a Buddhist lama, instills his philosophy of “kindness, love, patience and serve others” in everything he does, especially while concocting his favorite dishes as he cooks “from the heart.” This former mountain climber and backpacking guide makes sure that all of his employees get proper training to ensure every guest receives exceptional treatment.
"Spice makes food flavorful, diversity makes the world colorful," says Karma.
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Having hiked and cooked his way through S.E. Asia, the Himalayas, and Austria, where Bhotia was a chef for 8 years, he learned that simple spices make bold flavors. The merging of more “mild” Tibetan spices with the bolder Nepalese and European spices and herbs combine to make for an unforgettable culinary experience. Bhotia is most recently from California where he owned the restaurant “Tibet Nepal House of Pasadena,” which also won awards.
"Right food is medicine in disguise," says Karma. "Our spices are derived from ayurvedic tradition that are designed to boost the immune system."
Himalayan Kitchen offers a healthy alternative for Durango diners, with more vegetarian and vegan dishes than anywhere in town, all comprised of fresh and natural ingredients, are MSG-free, and non-oily. 95% of the menu is gluten-free. Aside from veggies, you will find Salmon, Shrimp, Yak, and Lamb… Oh, and there’s Chicken! Think again if you are one of the millions of Americans believing you have tried every possible chicken recipe known to man! Try the Chicken Tikka Masala, Mixed Grill, Annapurna, Vindaloo, or Korma for starters.
