Himalaya
From delicate dosas to fresh samosas, Himalaya in downtown Boston serves Indian cuisine without the traditional curry overload.
Atmosphere(8)
The walls of this narrow dining room are dotted with Indian art as Indian music plays in the background.Beware of the table for four near the kitchen window unless you like eating in a spotlight.
Menu(8)
All Indian bases are touched. From vegetarian and seafood dishes to traditional chicken, lamb, and tandoori specialties. A nice selection of wines as well as traditional Indian ales.
Portions(8)
Enough to satisfy Phantom but certainly no occasion he needed to bring extra doggy bags for.
Appetizers(7)
The shrimp Balchao served in a hollowed poori bread had more garnish than shrimp. The mashed potato patties called Batata Wata were too simply seasoned and on the bland side.
Food and Drink(8)
The lamb dosa, a crepe made from rice and lentil flour stuffed with ground lamb and smashed potatoes, was excellent. The Tandoori Duck Masala was missing meat while the Saag Paneer consisting of rich spinach and cottage cheese potatoes was refreshing with a glass of Kingfisher Indian beer.
Desserts(7)
Phantom's Kulfi, Indian ice cream that's cut into squares and topped with coconut, was unique but not as tasty as he hoped.
Service(8)
Phantom's server was knowledgeable and very quick to recommend dishes while runners quickly removed dirty dishes and replaced them with ones full of food.
Cleanliness(8)
Nothing bad to report. The dining room is well tended to and the bathrooms have seen plenty of hot scrubs during off hours.
Parking(6)
Located at 95 Mass Ave. in Boston. Parking is limited to the Prudential Center garage that's a 5-10 minute walk away.
Value(8)
Soups and salads are about $3, appetizers about $4, and entrees around $12.Leave with a full stomach, not an empty wallet.
