Himalaya is a small, hole-in-the-wall eatery in Karama. The fact that it’s been around for thirty years or so is a testament to the authentic, 100% vegetarian Gujrati thali and street food it is famous for. Its run-down appearance suggests that it targets the very bottom end of the market (translate that to read that it’s a bit of a dump).
But it has enough character to seem quaint to those who can afford better but like to eat at dives…for the street cred rather than the quality of the food. And I’ll be honest with you, the food is OK, nothing more. Prices though are laughably low; an unlimited thali costs under AED20. The store-made Namkeen in their display (both here in Karama, and their newer outlet in Oud Metha) are good but not a patch on what you get out of a Haldiram’s pack.
Their Dhokla, displayed on the cash counter, is far more appealing to look at than to eat – I found it unacceptably soggy.
And their Pani Puri was nowhere close to my favourite at Chatori Gali.
So much for their street food. Service though was friendly but slow. If it’s a good Gujrati thali you’re after, head straight to Rasoi Ghar or Rajdhani. And if it’s street food you crave, try Chaat Bazaar or Puranmal – all are in the Karama area. Because, with these sort of restaurants around, even for all its quaintness, character, and value for money, I simply cannot recommend Himalaya anymore.
Waste NOT. Want NOT.