Why go: From the dramatic murals to the hostess in a flowing sari, this Nepalese-Indian dining room sets a mood. The food is sumptuous—excellent breads, marinated meats, and spicy vegetarian dishes for Adams Morgan diners seeking something fancier than empanadas or falafel.
What to get: Spicy batter-fried cauliflower; rice-flour flatbread topped with minced chicken, butter, and Himalayan spices; nearly combustible momo dumplings tossed with tomato sauce; a buttery dessert of shredded carrots sweetened and topped with nuts.
Best for: A first date. The space is comfortable and romantic, and it’s fun to embark on a culinary journey—starting with a gratis plate of ginger-spiked soybeans—into a cuisine not often seen in these parts.
Insider tip: Carryout is available, as is free delivery within a two-mile radius.
Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for brunch and dinner.
>> See all 2009 Cheap Eats restaurants here
Ann Limpert joined Washingtonian in late 2003. She was previously an editorial assistant at Entertainment Weekly and a cook in New York restaurant kitchens, and she is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education. She lives in Petworth.
