True enough, it takes some time (about 5 hours from home to downtown Vic; really only an hour or so longer than driving) but it was kind of relaxing to be able to gaze out the windows at the scenery while someone else paid attention to the traffic for a change. Also, our consciences are clear as we did not add to our carbon footprint as far as travel is concerned.
Upon arrival downtown about midday, we sought out Tibetan Kitchen as it was featured on "You Gotta Eat Here" but more importantly as Tibetan food is not found on every corner. We were warmly welcomed by a member of the family who run this restaurant and who indeed are from Tibet.
We started with Momo which are dumplings common to Tibet, Nepal and generally the Himalayan region. These were deep-fried and filled with tasty pork but there is a vegetarian option and you could have them steamed also. They were accompanied by a spicy sauce. Very nice! I was impressed with the number of vegetarian options here and asked if that was a Tibetan thing. The answer is not really. Tibet is a generally cold country and their diet is more meat-centric because of the limited growing season. They are, however, catering to Victoria's evidently extensive vegetarian community. Good thinking.
We tried one of TB's several lunch specials, Pork Curry with mustard greens, served with rice, pooris and lentil soup which was frankly delicious! At $14 this is a very good deal. We loved the curry.
Finally, we had Chicken Shepta. This was basically a stir fry on rice but Tibetan style (with a generous addition of veggies as previously discussed). Ginger, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce and mild curry formed the sauce for this tasty and healthy dish.
Colorful and busy is how I would describe the decor, with a distinctive nod to Tibet and the Dalai Lama. His words are posted here and there for our edification which is a good thing. Comfy enough and with friendly folks, we recommend this place. Expand your horizons and try something a little different.
For what its worth, we give Tibetan Kitchen 3 1/2 out of 5.
No comments:
Post a Comment