Kathmandu Cottage

Ph: (03) 9329 3960; 349 Victoria St, West Melbourne 3003

Nepalese, $$ -
Open Lunch: Tues-Fri 12 noon-2.30pm, Dinner: 7 days 6pm-late; Licensed, BYO, Corkage $1 person; AE, BC, DC, MC, V, Seats inside 60, Outside seats 16

Mietta's Review
This is no Nepalese cottage. White starched tablecloths may be stark against intense blue walls, but the Cottage is the pride of owner-chef A. Basnet. With 32 years in the food business in Bahrain, Basnet came to Melbourne in 1996. He whips up dishes in a jiffy. For all the years away from home, he still exudes the quiet charm of his mountain tribe people, that has a calming effect on his patrons. The menu is extensive, with two banquets. From the a la carte menu, sekuwa Kathmandu is marinated and grilled tender chicken pieces served on a bed of saffron rice and salad. Another favourite is vantako tarkari, eggplant and potatoes simmered in spices and herbs. For something with a little tang and spice, try the bangurko masuko tarkari. This is lean and tender pieces of pork simmered in a tangy curry sauce flavoured with lime juice and coriander. Finish off with a Kathmandu ice cream - a creamy concoction of milk and pistachios laced with cardamom and served with fresh mango sauce.