Himalayan Yak, located in Bay View, offers a vibrant selection of Nepalese and Indian dishes, delighting visitors with more than 20 colorful options on their lunch buffet. The variety and flavors will astonish you, and the food is a true reflection of the chef’s talent and artistry.
A Dining Experience Worth Returning For
During my first visit, I went with two friends and we explored the extensive menu, which spans seven pages. The options include a variety of meats such as chicken, lamb, beef, and goat, with a choice of spice levels ranging from mild to extra hot. I ordered the Tikka Masala with chicken and mild spices. The tender chicken pieces were enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, with hints of garlic and ginger, complemented by a bowl of Basmati rice.
The Makhani, a butter chicken dish, shared a similar sauce but had a slightly fruity aftertaste. Another standout was the Chicken Chilli, where crispy chicken pieces were sautéed with onions and peppers and coated in a slightly sweet sauce.
To start, our server brought us a basket of Papadum, a thin, deep-fried bread made from lentil flour, served with three chutneys: onion, mint, and tamarind. The Papadum was a perfect snack, and we happily dipped it into the chutneys. We also tried Butter Naan, which was crisp and coated with melted butter. Other naan options on the menu included garlic, rosemary, and cinnamon varieties.
The Mango Lassi, thick and rich, tasted like fresh mango and was a refreshing complement to the spicy dishes. For those who prefer a savory drink, the Salt Lassi, made with Himalayan salt, is a great option.
The Sunday Buffet: A Feast for the Senses
After the satisfying lunch, I couldn’t resist returning for the Sunday buffet. This time, I dove into the plentiful spread, refilling my plate three times. The buffet featured a variety of dishes, starting with Saffron Rice, which paired perfectly with the various entrees.
I began with Chana Masala, chickpeas in a light tomato sauce, and Alli Chilli, creamy potatoes in a red sauce. Then, I sampled Okra Masala and Palak Paneer, a creamy spinach dish that might have been our favorite vegetarian option.
There were also numerous chicken dishes, including Chicken Jalfrezi, a stir-fried dish with vegetables, and Tandoori Chicken, which was tender, juicy, and smoky, thanks to its preparation in the Tandoor oven. A special Goat Curry, served on the bone, offered tender meat in a mild, coriander-flavored sauce.
To finish, we enjoyed two milk-based puddings flavored with cardamom: Carrot Pudding, which was less sweet with a hint of butter, and Rice Pudding (Keer), which provided a perfect sweet ending to the meal.
A New Favorite in Bay View
Himalayan Yak, which opened in October 2024, is a must-visit for anyone in the area looking to explore Nepalese and Indian flavors. The restaurant is owned by Surakchha Lalchan, who moved to Milwaukee from Nepal 14 years ago. Surakchha emphasizes that the restaurant’s entire staff, including the chef from Ghorka near Kathmandu, is from Nepal.
If you’re looking for a place to introduce out-of-town guests to vibrant cuisine, Himalayan Yak is the perfect spot. For the full experience, visit on the weekend for the buffet and indulge in the endless array of dishes.
Buffet Information
Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Weekdays), with additional dishes like goat curry added on weekends.
Cost: $16.95 on weekdays, with a $2 increase on weekends.
Dietary Labels: All dishes are clearly labeled for dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.
The Rundown
Location: 2321 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Phone: 414-312-7223
Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday
Neighborhood: Bay View
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