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Pradhumna Mishra has been a cinephile for as long as he can remember. He grew up near Jai Nepal Hall, where he would go regularly to watch movies—lots and lots of movies. Exposure to the world of cinema at a young age fuelled and shaped his desire to become a part of it. At home he had his father, a singer and songwriter, to nurture his artistic dream. Mishra’s obsession with films grew stronger as he got older. He used to spend countless hours watching movies, absorbing the nuances of filmmaking. “A film should be more than just the plotline or the stars,” says Mishra, who wishes cinema audiences to be more receptive, so that they could find deeper appreciation for the films they watch. As a schoolboy, Mishra expressed his creativity by writing, producing and performing plays. He was particularly good at dancing, a skill that helped him land his first job as a dance and drama teacher. Besides instructing students and staging shows in schools, he was also involved in various cultural groups. Mishra went on to serve as the vice president of Shiva Shakti Cultural Group, which he had joined as a student, and the managing director of Narsingha Cultural Group. It was around this time, he also picked an interest in photography and videography. “I taught myself the basics before I took a formal class,” says Mishra. He cut his teeth in cinematography at Nepal Television. “It was a place that allowed me to put everything I had learned into practice and refine my skills.” Before joining NTV in 2003, Mishra had worked as the chief assistant cameraman for the hit TV show ‘Hostel.’ Working for TV provided a good foundation for Mishra, as he got to work in different formats from teleserials to documentaries to music videos and commercials. He directed music videos like ‘Pashupatima Kamala’ and ‘Malaipani Chaiyo Mobile’ that were hits during their time. He also created and produced reality shows such as ‘Super Acting Competition,’ ‘The Band Bhaskar,’ and ‘School Dancing Champion,’ on NTV and NTV Plus. “Back then, reality shows were not even popular in India,” says Mishra proudly. “Super Acting Competition produced brilliant actors like Raj Ballav Koirala, Sandeep Chhetri, Gambhir Bista, Gajit Bista, and Shreejana Subba.” Mishra also produced and directed ‘Pahichhan’, a talk show focusing on the plights of the LGBTIQA+ community. It was while doing this talk show that he was inspired to make a short film about the queer community of Nepal. The result was ‘Blue Flower,’ a short film that Mishra co-directed with Sunil Babu Pant, a prominent gay rights activist and former lawmaker. From capturing breathtaking visuals as a cinematographer to bringing his creative vision to life as a director and producer, Mishra has left his mark on the Nepali film industry. His works on documentaries and films such as ‘Under the Secret Tree,’ ‘Family Tree (The Birth of Buddha),’ and ‘Aryaghat’ showcase his technical expertise and cinematic flair. He has also worked on films like ‘Avatar’, ‘Haude’, and critically acclaimed ‘Dhulo’. Mishra won the Best National Jury Choice Film Award for ‘Dhulo’ at the 3rd Nepal International Film Festival.  At the latest iteration of the film festival, he won the best director award for the film ‘Dubidha’. His works have also received international recognition, including at the Hollywood Gold Award, Florence Film Award, New York Movie Award, and Paris Film Award. “Dhulo has received good views on YouTube, but the film didn’t perform that well in theaters. One of the reasons for this is that we have to compete with the overwhelming presence of Bollywood movies,” says Mishra, who wished the moviegoing audience were more discerning who gave equal preference to experimental and independent films. He advises aspiring filmmakers to be patient, hardworking and, above all, bold. “You can learn and copy from great filmmakers, but you have to make your film your own. Do not run after commercial success, make films that represent Nepali society and culture,” he says. “Be original and always give your best, but don’t have high expectations.” Mishra believes a good filmmaker must have patience, curiosity and a passion for storytelling.

Nestled in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, lies KTM Hunger Station, a haven for culinary enthusiasts. This charming eatery serves a unique blend of traditional Nepalis cuisine and international favorites, all made from locally sourced and fresh ingredients. With its cozy ambiance, attentive service, and eclectic menu, KTM Hunger Station has become a beloved destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind dining experience. As I entered the restaurant, the tantalizing aroma of spices immediately overwhelmed my senses. The cozy atmosphere and vibrant decor make it a rustic bistro and an artistic hangout, a perfect blend of the old and the new. I couldn’t help but feel excited to see what was on the menu.  Talking about the food, they serve a wide variety of dishes. The menu offers a range of options for different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile spot for any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, a spicy curry, or a refreshing salad, you’re sure to find something that suits your palate here. One of the dishes you must try is their Taas Set. Meat is marinated in a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and then grilled to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful bites. It’s served with beaten rice, spicy chutney, onions, cucumber, and ginger on the side. The sides are in a refreshing and zesty contrast to the richness of the taas. It can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.  If you’re a meat lover, then their Meat Lover Pizza is a must. It’s loaded with pepperoni, sausage, chicken, and bacon, and has a crispy crust.  There’s a rich sauce binding it all together, with melted cheese giving it a delicious texture. It’s a satisfying meal.  One dish that really stood out was the Nashville Hot Combo, a combination of burger, fries, and a spicy dish on the side. This combo is perfect for those who crave a little bit of everything. The burger itself is a classic American-style burger, with a juicy patty, fresh lettuce, tomato, and cheese, all sandwiched between a soft and fluffy bun. But what really sets this combo apart is the ‘Nashville hot’, a spicy Nepali dish made with boneless chicken, peppers, onions, and a special blend of spices. The combo packs a tangy punch, complementing the burger.  The food at KTM Hunger Station is excellent in terms of taste and presentation. The staff is attentive and efficient, ensuring that your dining experience is a memorable one. The service is quick, and the servers know the menu well. If you are unsure about what you want, try asking them for suggestions. They are quite good at recommending just the right dish for you.  While waiting for my order, I was entertained by the cheerful atmosphere and upbeat music playing in the background. I took this opportunity to observe the other diners around me, noticing that there were many locals enjoying their meals. The restaurant has a relaxing atmosphere that makes it a great place to hang out with friends or family. The music was not too loud, and the tasteful decor added to the overall ambiance. And the restaurant follows strict hygiene standards, making it a safe and clean environment to dine in.  Their specials:

• Nashville Hot Combo
• Meat Lover Pizza
• Taas Set

Buddhisagar (Buddhi Ram Chapain) is a Nepali author known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing. He has written critically acclaimed novels like ‘Karnali Blues’ and ‘Phirphire’. Vivid descriptions, rich character development, and poignant storytelling are his strengths and his books touch on themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Parusha Khadka talked to Buddhisagar to learn more about his reading habits, writing process, and what he wishes for his readers. What inspired you to become a writer? My interest in writing began at a young age, fueled by my love of reading and storytelling. As a child, I would often spend hours immersed in books, fascinated by the power of words to transport me to different worlds. My own writing journey began in my 20s when I started writing and submitting them to radio stations for recitals. My early works were well received and I gained a reputation as a new voice in Nepali literature. I realized that I had a natural talent for storytelling, and my passion for writing only grew stronger with each passing year which led me to pursue a writing career. What do you consider to be your greatest writing achievement and why? The success of Karnali Blues was definitely the biggest achievement as it has helped me establish myself as a writer and a good one at that. The novel’s success has also been significant in terms of its impact on the broader cultural conversation in Nepal. It deals with themes such as poverty, social inequality, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. It has brought attention to these issues in a way that has resonated with a broad audience. In this sense, my achievement with the novel goes beyond my personal success as a writer.  What do you hope readers take away from your writing? My ultimate goal as a writer is to connect with my audience and tell stories that resonate with them on a personal level. I believe that the most powerful stories are those that can tap into universal human experiences and emotions, those that can help readers see themselves and their world in a new way. By creating characters and stories that they can relate to, I hope to foster a sense of empathy and understanding between myself and my audience. I want to write books that not only entertain and engage readers but also challenge them to think deeply about the world around them and to see it from new and different perspectives. How often do you read? Do you think reading has improved your writing? To excel as a writer, it’s imperative to be an avid reader. While I used to read extensively across all genres, my reading habits have evolved to become more selective. I gravitate towards books that offer valuable insights and knowledge. Despite this approach, my love for reading remains unwavering, especially when it comes to physical books. Reading provides exposure to different writing styles, genres, and techniques. By reading widely I’m able to expand my vocabulary, develop my writing skills, and learn how to craft compelling characters, plot lines, and settings. Reading has also helped me to stay updated with the latest trends and developments in the literary world.  Do you have some advice for aspiring writers?  I encourage aspiring writers to read more and explore new authors’ works. I believe that reading is an essential part of developing one’s understanding of the world and that by exploring the perspectives and experiences of different writers, readers can broaden their horizons and deepen their empathy for others. I also advise them to write regularly. By practicing writing on a regular basis, aspiring writers can hone their styles and develop their own personal writing processes. Write with authenticity, never stop learning and be open to new experiences.  What are you working on lately? Recently, my third novel ‘Eklo’ got released. It’s a novel that speaks to the universal struggles of young people as they navigate the complexities of the modern world. Through Arjun’s (one of the characters in the book) journey, I invite readers to reflect on their own experiences of loneliness, isolation, and their search for meaning in life, making this a novel that is both deeply personal and relatable. My other novel will be released in about a year or two. A translation of one of my previous novels is also in the works and it will be available soon. Buddhisagar’s picks  A House for Mr. Biswas by V.S. Naipaul This novel tells the story of Mohun Biswas, an Indo-Trinidadian man who is born into poverty and struggles to establish his identity and independence in a society that is still grappling with its colonial past.  The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo The Alchemist is a novel that is widely acclaimed for its inspirational and uplifting message. It emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and the power of belief and perseverance. At Night All Blood Is Black by David Diop This is a haunting and unforgettable story that grapples with complex themes of violence, trauma, and identity. It sheds light on the darkest corners of the human experience and provokes reflection and empathy.

He’s a police inspector. He’s also a songwriter. Twenty-eight-year-old Bhupendra Budhathoki is a dedicated officer and a talented musician as well. He is determined to carry out his duties to the best of his ability while pursuing his love for music. His work and his passion are two sides of the same coin, he says. Born and raised in Dang in Lumbini province, Budhathoki says he always dreamt of joining the law enforcement. He began his training right after completing his basic schooling and in just two years he had joined the Nepal Police force. Despite many personal setbacks and financial troubles, Budhathoki managed to finish his training. He says that although the job is a challenging one, he is determined to make a difference. Over the years, he has worked on a wide range of cases, from cybercrime to criminal investigations. He is now stationed in Mugu in Karnali Province. “If you really want to achieve something, you will do so, sooner or later,” says Budhathoki, and that applies to him as well. Ever since his childhood, he has always loved to write. “I wrote poems and gazals whenever I was free, especially before I began my training,” he says. But despite wanting to continue with his hobby, it wasn’t easy because of his hectic job as a police officer. The idea of writing songs had been on his mind for a long time. But it took him years after joining the police force to get back into songwriting again. Writing songs, he says, is a way to express his thoughts about what he sees around himself. He says he had discovered that he had a knack for creating music that resonated with others too. So, he started working on songs during his spare time, using his experiences as a police officer for inspiration. Rather than composing the whole song at once, he writes small verses. The songs he writes are mostly about the struggles and challenges that many Nepalis face every day, and his music has brought him a large number of fan following. One of the most remarkable things about him is his ability to balance both his passions for law enforcement and music. But the journey has not been easy. Budhathoki faced financial constraints while trying to release his first song, and also found it challenging to approach people for collaboration during the early stages of his music career. Furthermore, he had no prior experience in the music industry, and he had to learn everything from scratch. Despite these difficulties, Budhathoki didn’t give up. In 2018, his dedication led to the release of his first successful song ‘Hami Nepal Prahari’. He was inspired to write this after realizing there aren’t enough songs about police officers. “So I thought why not compose one myself?” he adds. He then released his second popular song, ‘Phool Bhanau Jindagi lai’, on his own YouTube channel which now has over 11m views. His lyrics have earned him two music awards, namely the Seventh National Award in 2019, and the Second National Brand Music Award in 2022. In Jan 2023, he bagged the YouTube Silver Play Button when his channel hit 100,000 subscribers. Budhathoki doesn’t consider himself a celebrity. “I wasn’t looking to be recognized or famous. I was just trying to pursue my long-lost hobby,” he says. However, his fans are incredibly loyal and dedicated to his music, for which he is grateful. He believes that their loyalty is a testament to the authenticity of his music and the deep messages he conveys through his songs. But pursuing a hobby has led to many accolades too and Budhathoki is happy about it. He says he is proud of himself and where he has reached. “Although I have been busy with my job ever since getting promoted to Police Inspector in 2020, I  have  prepared a bucket list to pursue my interest by writing at least one song a year,” he adds. Apart from his professional and personal achievements, Budhathoki prioritizes his family as well. He is very close to his mother and sister, who are his biggest supporters. He believes that family support is essential if you want to succeed in any field, and he is grateful for the encouragement he receives from his loved ones. “One of the happiest moments for me is when colleagues play my songs at the police station. They enjoy listening to it,” he says. For him, it’s not about having a massive fan following, but rather about creating meaningful connections with his listeners, including people who know him. He hopes that his music will continue to resonate with people and inspire them to bring positive changes in society. “Although I will die someday, I want my songs to live forever,” he says.

If you are looking for a cozy and comfy place to enjoy some good time with your friends and family, Twenty-Forty might be just the right spot. Located in Old Baneshwor, it’s a fine dining restaurant, and it’s quickly becoming a go-to spot for food lovers in the area. The restaurant has a relaxed ambience that instantly puts you at ease and a menu that features a variety of dishes. The moment you step into Twenty-Forty, its sleek design immediately gets your attention. Seatings are a mix of plush booths and comfortable chairs, all designed to provide guests with a luxurious and relaxed dining experience. The tables are elegantly set with fine linens and sparkling silverware, creating a sense of refinement and sophistication. In every corner, you will find potted plants that make the surrounding look green and lively. The lighting creates a warm and inviting ambience. The walls have a mix of modern artwork making the entire setting look really pleasing. Food at Twenty-Forty is exceptional. The dish we recommend you to try is Chicken Dum Biryani. Long-grain basmati rice and spiced chicken are slow cooked together in a sealed pot, also called ‘Dum’. The rice is perfectly cooked, with each grain separate and fluffy, while the chicken is tender and juicy. With each bite, you can taste the burst of flavors from a range of aromatic spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and cumin. Despite the use of several spices, the dish is not too overpowering. It blends well with rice and chicken. It is a must-try for everyone. Although the biryani was delicious, my personal favorite was the Chinese Spaghetti, mostly because of its uniqueness. It combines the best elements of Chinese and Italian cuisine. True, a lot can go wrong when you combine two cuisines together. But that’s not the case with this dish. It’s delicious. Thin spaghetti noodles are stir-fried with carrots, bell-pepper, onions, mushrooms, and other spices. To balance the nutritional value of the dish, it’s served with chicken lollipop and rice on the side. One of the best things about Chinese Spaghetti is the balance of flavor and texture. The noodles are perfectly cooked and there’s a slight bite to it. The vegetables are tender and flavorful. The spices and sauces used tie the dish together. It’s served hot and fresh, with herbs and scallions as garnish to add a pop of color. It’s best to share this meal with two people since the portion is quite huge. Mustang Aloo and Grilled Chicken are also quite popular here. These are the dishes that the regulars mostly prefer. The Mustang Aloo is spicy and zesty. The potatoes are well done, with slight crispiness on the outside. It’s crunchy yet soft, just like it should be, and serves as a good starter. In the case of Grilled Chicken, the meat is well-cooked, with a nice balance of smokiness from the grill and spice from the marinade. They also have a bar for anyone looking to have a drink along with their meal. Like the restaurant, the bar too is spacious, and has a sleek, modern design. One thing I loved about the restaurant is, although it’s usually packed, everyone can have a certain level of privacy because of the space between two tables. Furthermore, there is no complaint when it comes to their hospitality. The staff is warm, welcoming, and attentive towards their customers’ needs. And the service is quick. If you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal with your closed ones, then Twenty-Forty has got you covered. Not only do they offer a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, but they also offer an exciting reservation discount for large groups. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and family and head over to Twenty Forty for a fantastic dining experience. Their specials:

• Chinese spaghetti

• Chicken dum biryani

• Mustang Aloo

If I had to pick or recommend a good restaurant or cafe, I would choose a place that I could go any time of the day, be it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. That’s the reason why Jalpa Coffee Club tops my list of favorite places. It has been in business for two years and has garnered a good reputation for its high-quality coffee, diverse menu, and welcoming ambiance. The good thing is you don’t need company to go here as it can easily double up as your workstation. It’s also where you can hang out with your friends after wrapping up work. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, we highly recommend you to try Buttermilk Pancake, which comes in their breakfast set. The pancakes are freshly made, golden brown on the outside, and fluffy and light on the inside. It’s served with butter and syrup. The set also includes sausages, bacon, a seasonal fruit salad, and eggs of your choice, striking the right balance between sweet and savory. It goes really nicely with your morning coffee.  Ham and Cheese Slider is a good option if you’re looking to tuck in a quick lunch. Thinly sliced ham, with a hint of smoky flavor, is placed, along with cheddar cheese, between two fluffy buns, and served with fries on the side. The smoky taste goes well with rich and creamy cheese. It’s also a good option for a takeaway lunch. It’s small enough to hold in one hand, making it easy to enjoy on the go. Try the Bagel Sandwich if you want something different. Toasted bagel is sliced in half, with bacon, fluffy scrambled egg, cheese, mayonnaise, and lettuce. The crunchy texture of the bagel with soft yet crispy filling makes every bite a perfect one. Personally, I did think it was a bit heavy for a single person. So I’d suggest you split the meal with a friend.  The drinks here are amazing as well. From their coffees to smoothies, there is no room for complaint. Their coffee is sourced from high-quality beans and roasted in-house, ensuring a fresh and fragrant cup every time. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a fancy latte, the café has you covered. My personal favorite is their Coffee Drip, although it’s a drink well-suited for the summer months. If you are looking for something refreshing to go with your meal, I suggest you try the Mixed Berry Smoothie. It’s a blend of fresh and frozen mixed berries and is both sweet and sour flavored.  The Mixed Berry and Grape Juice Blend is also really nice. It’s slightly sweeter than the Mixed Berry Smoothie, but it’s as refreshing as it could get. Since summer is around the corner, this could be your go-to drink to accompany the sliders or sandwiches. The combination is great. With each savory bite, the hint of sweetness from this drink hits the right spot. They also offer a selection of pastries and baked goods. From croissants to muffins and cookies, there is something for everyone.  Best of all, the café has the perfect ambiance for those who are looking for a quiet and peaceful place to work, study, or relax. And it’s reasonably priced too. The interior is sleek and modern with a touch of traditional elements. The furniture is made of wood, and the decor is simple yet elegant. The restaurant has a large window that lets in ample natural light, making it feel bright and airy.  They also have the option of outdoor seating. Although it tends to get dusty, the staff make sure that the table you choose is always neat and clean. One thing I loved the most was how well-maintained the garden was. Because of that, most of their customers prefer to stay outside, especially if they are there for breakfast. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee on a sunny day.  Their specials:

• Buttermilk Pancake
• Slider
• Bagel Sandwich

Although talking about menstruation in public is now common, the stigma surrounding the topic still remains. The podcast ‘Period Kaa Kura’, which was launched in Sept 2020, has taken on the challenge of bringing menstruation out of the shadows and into the spotlight, through candid conversations and honest storytelling that aims to empower and educate their listeners. The initiative was started by Priyanka Budhathoki and Shristi Kafle, who are the hosts of the podcast and, to date, they have aired 55 episodes. The idea to start a podcast took root during the Covid-19 lockdown when the hosts were using their leisure time to research a topic for their program, as well as invest in equipment like microphones and recording software needed to run a podcast. “We decided to start a podcast on menstruation because of our own experiences as women who were forced to follow the stigmatizing tradition and restrictions our society still believes in,” says Budhathoki. “But why a podcast?” I asked. To that, Kafle says, “Because we both had a journalistic background, starting a podcast felt like the right thing to do, and the topic is also something we both can relate to.” A new episode of the podcast airs every 15 days. Most of these episodes, besides a couple, are in Nepali, since their target audience are the Nepalis people. “After the first few releases, we got a lot of appreciation from our friends and family which motivated us and kept us going,” says Budathoki. Since the podcast is on menstruation, they first discuss different issues that revolve around it, from taxes on sanitary pads to ‘chhaupadi’ and menstrual health. When asked if it’s difficult to stay relevant since there are only so many things they can bring up, the hosts say it’s surprisingly easy to have conversations on it. Every now and then, the duo receives a bunch of queries or requests from their listeners asking them to discuss a certain issue. That way, they usually have a list of topics ready beforehand to cover on the podcast. “I don’t think we will run out of topics to discuss anytime soon,” adds Kafle. They have also made it a point to talk about menopause, a relatively neglected aspect of menstruation and women’s health. In Nepal, not many people are aware of the emotional and mental challenges a person might be going through during menopause. They have taken a personal approach to it by talking to their mothers about menopause. They have four episodes on it. In the course of their assignments as journalists, the hosts have been able to gather stories of different women and bring them to light through their podcast. They also talk to guest speakers once in a while to get more insight into topics the discussions are based on. Through the podcast, they are also trying to let people know that not all women menstruate or not everyone who menstruates identifies themselves as women. “It’s definitely not something that many people are aware of so we felt that initiating this conversation was necessary,” says Kafle. “There are non-binary and trans men who menstruate too, and have many concerns regarding period hygiene,” she adds. They have listeners who approach them with their period-related and menstrual health concerns. “We think we have been able to gain trust from people, which is why they are comfortable sharing a lot of personal experiences with us,” says Budhathoki. The podcast has made it a point to include people from various age groups and gender, in order to let them have a platform to put forward their concerns. Along with that, Period Kaa Kura also promotes diverse menstruation issues, from covering stories of young people advocating using sustainable menstrual products in rural areas to bringing in gynecologists to speak on important reproductive health issues such as cervical cancer, PMS, PCOS, menstrual health, and hygiene. Period Kaa Kura, the duo says, is a platform for all menstruating women to share their stories. “This increasing digitalization of things has been a blessing for us,” says Budhathoki. She says it’s comparatively easier to reach a mass today as there is internet access in most parts of Nepal. Connecting with people from all walks of life has never been easier.  “But that also comes with its own share of drawbacks,” says Kafle. The biggest challenge they have come across is the hate messages from certain religious groups. “They think we are challenging or disrespecting religion by not following the rules,” adds Kafle. “But all we are trying to do is help women break the restrictions the society has imposed on them in the name of religion.” The motive of the podcast is clear: to normalize talking openly about periods. And it’s still not as common and accepted as it should be. “Even if the topic ‘period’ is taught in classrooms these days, the only thing they learn is the scientific process, and not the cultural component that has made the lives of many women so difficult,” adds Kafle. “The day we change the perspective of someone, be it a single individual, on menstruation, and help them understand that period is nothing impure and just a natural process, we will truly believe we have made an impact,” says Budhathoki. Despite getting some backlashes, they are happy that their work is still being appreciated. The fact that they have been able to provide a platform where women can share their experiences or openly ask questions regarding menstrual health and hygiene gives a much-needed boost to their morale. “So, we hope to give continuity to our work and do all we can to raise awareness on dignified menstruation,” says Budhathoki. The podcast is available on Soundcloud, Google Podcast, Apple Podcast, and Anchor FM.

A calm and cozy place for breakfast or lunch, with freshly brewed coffee by your side, seems like the perfect way to get started with your day. But restaurants like those usually fall on the expensive side, and they can’t become a regular haunt. We have found a place that doesn’t just serve a good meal but is also pocket-friendly. With its sleek and modern design, Rise N’ Dine Restro in Naxal attracts youngsters and businesspersons alike. From the moment you walk in, you are enveloped by a calming ambiance that invites you to sit down, relax, and enjoy a cup of coffee. The menu is diverse. Whether you are looking for something light and healthy, or something more indulgent, their wide variety of food options will cater to all your preferences. Since we visited the restaurant for lunch, most of our food recommendations might not be ideal for breakfast. But trust us when we say that you will not regret visiting the place at any time of the day. Going by the quality of food they served, we are sure that their breakfast or dinner options are equally delicious.  For lunch, we suggest you get into the mood by ordering a starter before digging into the main course. And for that Mustang Aloo is the best. Potatoes are deep-fried, and the mix of spices used lends them a nice zing. They use sichuan pepper, jimbu (a local spice found in Himalayan region of Nepal), and fried garlic for the seasoning. It makes for an excellent snack. However, it’s best to share this dish, since having it alone might not leave you with much room for the main course.  Try Spaghetti with meatballs for the main course. It’s a comforting dish that will satisfy all your cravings. The pasta is cooked al dente (cooked in a way that gives you a firm bite) with a savory tomato-based sauce. The meatballs are freshly made, and with each bite, you can taste the mixture of herbs and spices, making it an absolute delight. To give an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color, the spaghetti is topped with herbs and cheese. It’s a satisfying meal you can have for either lunch or dinner.  Grilled Chicken is equally good, which makes sense since this is one of their bestsellers. Chicken is marinated with a blend of spices, including garlic, lemon, and some herbs, and is grilled to perfection. It’s served with some vegetables and mashed potatoes on the side to balance out the nutritional value of the meal. It smells delicious, making you want to dig into the meal right away. With every bite, you will notice how well-cooked, juicy, and tender the chicken is, and the hint of smoky flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish. We suggest you give their coffee a try as well. The beans they use make their coffee quite good and satisfying. We highly recommend a cup of coffee if you are visiting the place for an early morning breakfast.  What we also noticed (and appreciated) was the fact that the cafe’s atmosphere seems to make their food taste even better. The interior is well-designed, and the seats are arranged in a way that makes the restaurant look less crowded. They are not secluded but leave enough space between the tables to maintain some privacy. Also, the cafe is well-lit with access to fast internet, making it an ideal place to get some work done too. If you want to get some fresh air, the place also has an outdoor seating space. And no, it’s not dusty or noisy, since the cafe is located in a quiet residential area.  The customer service here is good too. We say that because the staff kept refilling our glasses of water without having to ask. They are quite attentive to what their customers need or are looking for. And if you are not sure about what to have, the staff is more than happy to give you recommendations based on your preference. Since the place is always packed, it’s better if you make reservations beforehand. Good thing is that doing so will also fetch you a 10-20 percent discount.  Their specials:

• Mustang Aloo
• Grilled Chicken 
• Spaghetti with Meatballs