Vancha Ghar

Vancha Ghar is one of those hidden treasures that comes along every now and then and surprises the pants off you. This newcomer to Bardon restaurant strip has serious potential to grow into something very special. Located in a secluded open-air setting, situated back from MacGregor Terrace, it has a soothing atmosphere bathed in candlelight and filled with Nepalese accoutrements. The menu is written on handmade Nepalese paper and the tablecloths are of traditional design. If this is not enough to ensconce you in the Nepalese way of life, there is a big screen showing a documentary of the mother country including exhilarating footage of the Himalayas.

While the setting and service is attractive, the food is what really makes Vancha Ghar. Nepalese cuisine uses similar spices and ingredients to Indian cuisine, yet it tastes quite unique (apparently the key is the timing in adding the spices). Highlights of the menu include alu ko achar (boiled potatoes marinated with sesame seed, lime, chilli and garlic) a delectable dish that has an unbelievable flavour. For mains, sample the sweet pumpkin curry, a smooth and flavoursome dish rounded off nicely with chilli, or the thali, a traditional meal consisting of daal, fried rice, and tofu cooked with vegetables, a meat curry and pickles.