When you think of cuisine North-East in the Himalayan belt, momos, thukpa and dhindo come to mind. These dishes have also taken over our kitchens and the street food space over the years.
At The Local Cafe (TLC), newly-opened at Greater Kailash Part I, a team led by Sangpo Tenzin offers a menu that captures the distinct flavours of the region, using local ingredients. Sikkimese food is largely rice-based and the cuisine is usually a blend of Lepcha, Tibetan and Nepalese cuisines, given the small mountain state’s geographical location.
A postgraduate in management from Delhi University, Tenzin was inspired by the city’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures, and decided to give locals a taste of food from his hometown.
“While it’s true that there are already some great cafes and restaurants in Delhi that serve Himalayan and northeastern cuisine, what sets us apart is our unique fusion approach to cooking,” he says, adding that TLC brings together culinary traditions from the Himalayan region, combining the flavours of Sikkim, Nepal and Tibet to create a unique fusion of dishes. He adds that special coffee cultivated in Sikkim is also on the menu.
Traditional furnishings and design lend this restaurant a tranquil ambience. The entrance features Tibetan prayer flags, and inside, brick walls are brightened with paintings.
TLC interiors
Amdo Flat Noodles in Laphing Sauce
The menu features Himalayan calzone, Dalle Fries and Shanghai Pasta: all a combination of traditional flavours from the mountains and popular comfort food. Recipes from the Himalayas tend to be both nourishing and functional, a combination of fresh and fermented food. If spices are scarce, whatever is available locally is used for seasoning.
The TLC chefs keep tweaking the spice levels to appeal to Delhi customers. The Dalle Fries and Himalayan Calzone are especially popular. There are other options too such as the Tibetan Bread Sandwich, Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, and Sikkimese Style Chicken Wings.
Himalayan Calzone
The Sikkimese style chicken wings are comforting: it features tender chicken on the inside, flavoured with Himalayan spices and served with crispy corn on the side. Glazed with barbeque sauce and spring onions, the finishing touch balances the flavour of the meat, and the seasoned spice rub. Try the Amdo flat noodles in Laphing Sauce soupy flat noodles originally from Tibet is served with or without cold soup, and brings together tangy, sour, and spicy flavours.
Choose to sit at the balcony as it offers a beautiful view of the Delhi skyline.
The Local Cafe is at I-304, Block R, Greater Kailash Part I ; Meal for two costs ₹1,000; Call 7908169136 for reservation
