A Beginner’s Guide to Ordering at a Nepali Restaurant
New to Nepali food? You are not alone. Many of our guests open the menu and see words they have never heard before. So we made this simple Nepali food guide. It walks you through how to order, what the words mean, and which dishes to try first.
Himchuli has served Nepali and Indian food in Denver since 2016, at 3489 W 32nd Ave in Highlands and 3490 Larimer St in RiNo.
How to Order in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Start With a Starter
First, order a starter for the table. Momos are the classic choice, but pakoras and vegetable samosas are great too.
Try this: One plate of steamed momos and one plate of chilli momos.
Step 2: Pick Your Main
Next, choose your main dish. A creamy curry like makhani or korma is a safe pick for first-timers. Alternatively, a thali platter lets you taste several dishes at once.
Try this: A thali if you cannot decide.
Step 3: Add Bread or Rice
Then add something to scoop up the sauce. Our menu has more than a dozen naans and rotis, and every curry pairs well with rice.
Try this: Garlic naan, the crowd favorite.
Step 4: Choose Your Spice Level
After that, tell your server how spicy you like your food. Most dishes can be made milder or hotter, so you stay in control.
Try this: Start with medium. You can always add heat.
Step 5: Finish With a Drink
Finally, pick a drink. A mango lassi cools your mouth after spicy food, while a cup of chai warms you up on a cold Denver evening.
Try this: Mango lassi with anything spicy.
Your Nepali Food Guide: 8 Words to Know
Momo
A hand-folded dumpling with a seasoned filling, served steamed or fried.
Dal
A comforting lentil soup or stew. Many Nepali families eat it every day.
Bhat
Steamed rice. When you see dal bhat, it means lentils with rice.
Tarkari
A cooked vegetable side dish, often served with dal and rice.
Achar
A tangy, spiced sauce or pickle that adds a bright kick to your meal.
Alu
Potatoes. For example, jeera alu means potatoes cooked with cumin.
Thali
A large plate with several small dishes, so you can try a little of everything.
Chiya
The Nepali word for tea. In Nepal, people drink it with milk and spices.
What to Order for Your Group
Try a thali platter. As a result, you get a full meal and a taste of several dishes in one order.
Share one plate of momos, two different curries and a basket of garlic naan.
Order two or three starters and several curries to share, plus plenty of naan and rice.
Tips for Your First Visit
Our daily lunch buffet runs 11 AM to 3 PM. In other words, it is the easiest way to try many dishes at once.
Our team is happy to explain any dish. Just tell them what you like, and they will guide you.
We label vegan options daily. In addition, Himchuli Highlands hosts a vegan buffet on the third Tuesday of each month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I order at a Nepali restaurant for the first time?
Start with momos, then pick a mild curry like makhani with garlic naan. If you want variety, order a thali platter instead.
Is Nepali food spicy?
It does not have to be. Most dishes can be made mild, medium or hot, so just tell your server your preference.
What is the difference between Nepali and Indian food?
The two share many spices. However, Nepali food often uses lighter sauces, and dishes like momos and dal bhat are everyday favorites in Nepal.
Where can I try Nepali food in Denver?
Himchuli has served Nepali and Indian food in Denver since 2016, at Highlands (3489 W 32nd Ave) and RiNo (3490 Larimer St).
Ready to Order?
Now you know what to order. Visit us in Highlands or RiNo, or order online and get 10% off takeout.