Having a taste for Indian Food, and much too lazy to get my butt to the store and shop then actually cook, the wife and I headed out to a recent restaurant discovery – Mt. Everest Restaurant, in Evanston Illinois. This classy place (dark hardwood bar and what have you) serves both Indian and Napalese dishes, why not go?
I found this location last week as I was searching the intrawebs for alternative locations. We tried the carry out and, well, we were both underwhelmed. It wasn’t bad. It just didn’t match up to our other favorite location. Having thought about the experience, I realized that carry-out may not have been the best option for a first time visit seeing the transit time would cut down on the “fresh taste”, so a second attempted was in order.
And I am glad we did.
First – The Paneer Pakora (fried cottage cheese) was to DIE for. There was no oily feel to the Pakora, the taste was very distinctive, very unique and VERY appetizing. The blend of cheese and batter was perfectly balanced which could create a situation where I would just eat this and be satisfied.
My main dish was Chicken Curry – AMAZING. The sauce was so fresh, and the hint of cilantro kept calling me back for more. One problem I usually have with Chicken Curry dishes is that the pieces of chicken are small and one ends up spending a few bucks on something that really does not provide enough sustenance. Not the case here. Everything was perfectly selected.
My main dish number #2 (or side dish) Aool Gobi (cauliflower and potatoes) – Once again, the spice mix was blended to perfection. Nothing overwhelming, everything inviting for the person who is sitting in front of the dish. While I can see a vegetarian eating this as a main course, it would not be enough for me.
The Naan – Anyone who hasn’t experienced good Naan in life is missing out. The Naan at Mt. Everest Restaurant is the freshed, perfectly cooked, Naan I’ve ever had. Often I find that Naan is either over/under cooked, which creates a situation that I am left looking for a good bread with my meal… again, prepared to perfection. Plus, it was nice and fluffy!
I cannot speak for the Napalese dishes, but if you happen to be in Evanston, Illinois, and are in the mood for outstanding Indian food, this is the place to go.
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#1 by Reeni - May 4th, 2009 at 18:44
What a nice review! No one I know likes Indian food so I haven’t had any in so long. I’m jealous!
#2 by Syrie - May 4th, 2009 at 19:55
I know what I’m having for dinner tonight. It’s been ages since my last Indian meal!
#3 by Van - May 4th, 2009 at 22:02
Oh, Reeni! You are missing out if you are not having Indian food on a semi-regular basis. Really, you are!
What is your favorite dish?
#4 by Van Santos - May 4th, 2009 at 22:04
Hey Syrie! Next time you are in the Chicago area, we’ll take you.
#5 by Bill - May 5th, 2009 at 18:07
Ok, you mentioned nann. That’s it, now I have to go out for indian food. Thanks for breaking my no eating out streak I was on
Food Blog + 1
Dave Ramsey Baby Steps 0
Oh well.
#6 by Van Santos - May 5th, 2009 at 22:13
Naan is a killer, Bill! It’s a must for anyone.