Tibetan New York
Recent political events as well as China's hosting of the coming Olympic games have brought the issue of Tibet's independence movement to the forefront of American news coverage. The issues are bigger and more complicated than can be covered here. But it's certainly safe to say that it's hard to be Tibetan right now, even right here in New York. New York City's small but thriving pockets of Tibetans and Nepalese provide New York with delicious, delicious food. The cuisine includes a mix of Chinese and Indian influences, but with its own unique charm that results in hearty, tasty cuisine. Whatever your beliefs about politics, eating some momos (dumplings) and spending some time with Tibet's expats can only broaden your horizons.
Yeti of Hiezan Restauraunt
43-16 Queens Blvd
Queens, NY 11104
The Yeti is a Japanese / Nepalese fusion restaurant. While the Japanese has gotten mixed reviews, the Nepalese fare receives raves. Holy shit! You really must check out … there website, that Yeti is a badass. [link]
Tibetan Yak
72-20 Roosevelt Ave
Queens, NY 11372
For most New Yorkers, it's quite a trek out to Jackson Heights, but the neighborhood's varied cuisines makes it all worth the trip. The Tibetan Yak is a must, even though … there is no Yak on the menu. Get the hand-rolled pasta with beef and radish. You won't be sorry. [link]
Himalaya Teahouse
32-17 31st Ave
Queens, NY 11106
Anyone not familiar with Himalayan Tea is dead to me. It's rich and milky and delicious, a great hangover cure, and good for high altitude exploration. The food is slow … in coming, but delicious when it arrives. Try the dumpling and noodle dishes. [link]
Tibet House
22 W 15th St
New York, NY 10011
This non-restaurant is the place to go if you want to learn more about Tibet through art, yoga, lectures, and meditation classes. It's all very welcoming. This museum … will do nothing to dispel your stereotypes of Tibetans as wise, caring, spiritual people. [link]
Tsampa
212 E 9th St (between 3rd Ave & Stuyvesant St) New York, NY 10003
For a romantic night with the Dalai Lama's smiling image staring down at you, try Tsampa. More upscale than most Tibetan places, Tsampa provides huge, delicious, and … reasonable portions that make you look wise and worldly ... so you can get on the right side of that special someone. [link]
Tibetan Kitchen
444 3rd Ave
New York, NY 10016
The food at Tibet Kitchen is hit or miss; when it's on it's on, when it's not it can be shockingly bland. Stick with the momos and meat dishes. The tofu leaves a lot to … be desired. The service is excellent, and the food is all homemade. Choose your visiting hours carefully; they are open only from noon-3 and 5-11. [link]
Cafe Himalaya
78 E 1st St
New York, NY 10009
The tiny, cramped Cafe Himalaya serves up healthy Nepalese food, and you can bring your own booze. There are no frills in the food or atmosphere, but you get great … family-made traditional food. Try the veggie momos. [link]
