Namaste Chicago - Taste of Himalaya - Logan Square

Self-described on their sign as Nepalese and Indian Cuisine, I think this place just opened. After one carry-out order, I'd cautiously say that it's better than average and has potential. Offering-wise, it's pretty much right down the center of the fairway. That said, the thali (an item I don't see as much around town), served both veg and non-veg, seemed far better suited for dining in, so we didn't try it.

We ordered about a dozen items and most of them were solid. Chicken momo, butter and spicy naans, chana masala, chicken makhani, ghosh biryani, rayo ko sag were really enjoyable. I loved the spicy-tangy-rich vindaloo but we ordered it with shrimp that turned out to be around U60, so that was a bummer. But overall, the food was tasty and well-prepared.

Phone and carry-out service were pleasant, helpful and thorough. We were quoted 30-45 minutes for pick-up but the gentleman who took our order offered to call us when it was ready. Since we're a two-minute-walk away, that was a nice option. And we were especially glad it was offered when he called us 65 minutes after we'd ordered. I attribute this to the recentness of their opening but obviously, I can't be sure about that.

My feeling is that Spice Room, a gem of a place, still leads the neighborhood in this category. It's just a level above. And Superkhana International has the more non-traditional segment well covered. But this place will certainly scratch the itch. It's also nice that, at least right now, they're open for lunch every day except Monday.

Based on this experience, and being as close as we are, I'm sure we'll be back. There are several items I'd like try, including a few that seem better suited for dining in than taking away (the aforementioned thali among them).

=R=

Namaste Chicago website
2515 N California
Chicago, IL 60647
773-276-7330

Had a mixed visit on Friday prior to going to the Logan Square Improv, which celebrated their first anniversary Friday and seem to be doing very well. The move last spring from their original space has provided a much nicer room. And the owners are great guys.

Wanted to order vegetable momo, but with the warning it was going to take extra time to steam them, we passed. In hindsight, based on when our entrees came out, we should have ordered them. If ordering apps, you may want to ask for some spacing since another table received their samosa's about 45 seconds before a parade of entrees arrived.

Vegetable Jalfrezi was the winner of the night, which is usually not a favorite for me. Chana masala and the new to us, Aaloo Tama Bodi were both under seasoned and a bit boring. Good roti.

Service was weird all night, no menus after sitting for over twenty minutes in the not that busy room, but the table next to us came in 15 minutes later and got menus and water first. If we didn't have somewhere to go after, it wouldn't have mattered.

Really appreciate the big plus of BYO, and no corkage.

Will give them a bit more time to get settled in and give them another shot, but it may be tough for them with The Spice Room and Rangoli not far away.