Understaffed and overpriced Indian food. I wanted so badly to like this place, but we ended up throwing out a bunch of the food we brought home. The flavors were not well balanced. The attention to detail was poor. We love Indian food -- guess we'll just keep having to go to New Haven to get it. Save your money and go elsewhere. read more

Want to see a symphony in Old Saybrook, CT? Go to the Himalaya Cafe and sit at the bar to watch Naveen work his magic and create some of the finest Indian cuisine you will ever taste. He doesn't skip a beat adding spices and sauces into a array of pans to deliver the most authentic tikkas, sags and tandoori dishes. It's truly fun to watch. And Sanjay the owner could not have been more knowledgeable and personable to talk with. And don't forget to finish your meal with a couple gulab jumuns for dessert. A must restaurant to visit. read more

I was in the area for work and discovered this little gem. I love Indian food and so was happy to find this place. It is quaint, small but intimate, cozy and even kind of romantic inside with the decor, red/gold pillows and furniture. I sat at the bar since I was alone, and though walked in roughly about 40 mins before closing, they were so sweet and happy to accommodate me. What's cool is that the chef cooks in front of you as the kitchen area is right in the middle of the bar. He had a lovely smile and made recommendations for me since I was vegan for that night. I had the Aloo Gobi (cauliflower and potatoes cooked in Indian spices) which was very flavorful, the garlic naan (bread) which was delicious, and additionally chai tea which was great and for dessert this special which was carrot pudding - I couldn't believe it had no dairy in it because of how creamy and tasty it was. I would love to go back and try the non vegan dishes soon. If you're in Old Saybrook, def stop by you won't regret it! :) read more

Himalaya Cafe - Chai tea with honey! - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

See all

SO...we arrived early before seatings and no reservation but they were so sweet and treated us with such kindness. SO happy to have found an incredibly authentic, sophisticated, delish Indian food, the naan, the mango spicy saucy dip with the papadum, the rice, the veggie korma, the chicken tikka masala, and creamiest rice pudding desert, everything was fantastic, fresh & flavorful. We also loved that they ask you in advance about your spice level requirements and have lots of options so your dish arrives with the spice level as you wish. This will be ur go to Indian restaurant so nice a find with winter coming!! The cozy decor is colorful & hip! Make reservations to ensure you will be able to taste this aromatic & delightful food! read more

Had a great time at the Himalaya Cafe and had amazing Tandoori Paneer Tikka. 100% go and try it. read more

Great little find. Very cozy seating arrangements. I had a very tasty chicken tikka masala. Seema, who took down my reservation, was super nice. She even whipped up a daal for me (see picture) after the kitchen was closed. Highly recommended - especially as a gentle intro to Indian cuisine. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Daal and basmati rice. This was made for me very kindly by Seema after the kitchen had closed. - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Last night my daughter and I visited this cafe! W O W!! Best secret on the shoreline. Food, ambience, service ALL INCREDIBLE! Can't wait to go back. If you haven't been there get in soon. Small place with awesome food! I give it a full 5 stars! read more

Always fresh and delicious, and a wonderful staff to boot. They are a staple of ours on the shoreline. They will always work with you on spice level and will gladly offer suggestions on what to try next. The vindaloo and tikka masala are our favorites, and their vegetable biryani is hands down the best I've ever had! read more

The Himalaya Cafe recently opened and it truly is a treasure! Any time you can find authentic Indian cuisine in a small town like this, it's a must-visit. The cafe offers a good range of breakfast options that would please anyone and if you don't see something that appeals to you the chef and owner is happy to make you something not on the menu! True service! I haven't been for dinner yet, but based on the amazing breakfast I've enjoyed there, I can't wait to stop in for dinner. The place has a really nice, chill vibe- somewhere where you can relax and enjoy your meal the way you should be able to. The staff is incredibly friendly and accommodating. Two thumbs up for the Himalaya Cafe! You need to check this place out! read more

Himalaya Cafe - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

It is unreal that this place exists in Old Saybrook, CT. The food is better than any Indian food I have ever had in NYC, San Francisco, Chicago....or anywhere, really. This is the best Indian food I have ever had. Period. The food is RIDICULOUS. There are so many vegan options and you cant go wrong with any of them. A few things on the menu I would call out: Naan- any of them! Crispy with a fluffy interior. Perfect amount of spice. Baingan Bharta - tastes almost like baba ghanoush. You can actually taste the smokiness of the eggplant. Melts in your mouth. Lamb Biryani - just unreal. Get this. Channa Masala - Perfectly cooked. Topped with fresh ginger. So so good. Chicken Korma- Amazing. You can actually taste the cashews in the sauce Paneer Saag- Spinach is at the optimal consistency and taste. Cheese cubes are perfect Please go here and support this magical little gem of a restaurant so it can stay here and fill our hearts and bellies forever :) read more

5 stars on setup, menu options, and overall service model - an appropriately named nice and cozy restaurant. Had to take 2 stars out of that mix because of quality on food hygiene. Some of the ingredients weren't fresh and had mildly decaying smell in them. Especially those green leaves, the meat and the rice that was served on the side. My suspicion though it's a time of year thing - we visited the restaurant between Christmas and New Year's Eve when restaurants aren't really high traffic and fast moving. Some of the ingredients were inappropriately recycled but at the end of the day it's an issue with standards and management oversight. read more

This is simply the best Indian restaurant In connecticut! We ordered simosas, chicken korma, and chicken tikka masala. All were to die for. Also love the decor and cozy feeling of the restaurant. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

See all

Place seems to be closed and/or out of business. Here on a Friday night at 7. Drove 40 minutes to get here too. Very disappointed.

Went for lunch today for the first time. The waiter was super nice. The atmosphere is cozy and it smells so good in the restaurant. The music is calming. It kind of fells like you could be sitting at home having Indian. Food was wonderful with great flavor. Just be sure to ask for mild if you don't like hot and spicy. We liked it so just a thought if you are a little more cautious about the heat of your food. Overall we highly recommend and will definitely be going back soon. We have found our new favorite Indian food restaurant. read more

Beautiful decor drew me here all the way from Hartford just to have lunch. We also had couple of friends joined us that day. The decor is beautifully done you can see the touch of Himalayan culture. The seating space is limited however can accommodate one big group at a time. They have about four to five small tables. The bigger tables feel like dinning at home, dint feel comfortable because we had to keep our plates in hand and eat. Friendly staff! The kitchen is an open kitchen concept. Food tasted just okay nothing fancy. The portion size was small not sure how the dinner portions are. I tried the chicken patties, this was ground chicken n eggs with a nice flavor but was a little greasy coz these were deep fried. Also tried paneer tikka, these were horribly rubbery, no flavors or seasonings whatsoever n tough not made with fresh paneer for sure! Entree tried a veggie curry, asked for medium spicy but ended up with a sweet curry... Orders were slow and it was disappointed driving so far all the way from Hartford only to eat here! read more

See all

This Indian Cafe is my new go to for Indian food, Tonight was the first take out I decided to try. "Why did I wait so long?" Is all I can say. I ordered Chicken Vindaloo with the spicy rating being "Indian Spicy" which may be a bit much BUT the server put a side of yogurt in my bag in case it was to hot for me, it wasn't but the thoughtfulness was truly appreciated. I asked for Papadums AFTER I arrived, no problem, placed in the bag with my order with three dipping sauces with no issues. The meal came with all above and two containers of rice. I also ordered a double order of garlic naan based on other Indian restaurants servings, one order would have been enough to but it's excellent so use one piece left over along with much of the meal. Lunch tomorrow! Takeout in an hour and reservations only due to the lack of being to find help. read more

After the first bite, I told my dinner companion, "I can't wait to come back !!!!!" What a delightful experience... the flavors, the atmosphere, the service. Sima, one of the co owners, patiently answered all of our questions. And I was thrilled to learn that varied spice levels were possible. We had a delicious appetizer, GET the PRATA!!) two vegetable dishes, Raita, rice, and some delicious dipping sauces. It was all so flavorful. We were treated to two desserts, a rice pudding... and an Indian variation of" donuts, EAY BETTER AND MIRE FLAVORFUL. with ice cream. I can't tell you with words just how wonderful all the flavors are. read more

This is a hidden treasure in Old Saybrook. Like most restaurants in the area, the food is delicious and freshly made. But it's the only one you'll find with authentic Indian style and the staff with go out of their ways to get fresh & requested ingredients for their patrons. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Himalayan Cafe, as tasty and as authentic, as if you're actually in India instead of Old Saybrook. - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

This was my first time at the Himalaya Cafe and I already can't wait to go back! I love Indian food and I've never had it as good as it was here. Not only was the food out of this world, the interior decorating and ambience of the restaurant were amazing. Loved every second of my meal and will absolutely be returning again soon!!!! read more

See all

Amazing place! So cute inside. Food was excellent. Service was outstanding. Would highly recommend. I am vegan and found several awesome choices. read more

Awesome food. Love to get takeout and they also have delicious cocktails when we eat in.

Quaint eatery with beautiful decor and authentic indian dishes. For starters, we enjoyed Daal soup and lightly baked garlic Naan, both made to perfection. Entrees were the Chicken Rogan Josh and Lamb Bryani. My Rogan Josh was tangy and spicy, with a perfect blend of Indian herbs. The staff are very friendly and accommodating. There is an open kitchen, and from every seat at the bar, you can see your dishes being masterfully created. I usually prefer table seating, but sitting at the bar was a real treat tonight. The chef even asked us personally about our meals. We WILL be returning!!!!! read more

After months of stalking the Himalaya Cafe on Route 1 in Old Saybrook, they finally opened their doors. The rustic yet hip interior is decked out with upcycled, painted barn-wood furniture topped with Indian printed textiles and accent pillows. The vibe is loungey, and for now, they're serving beer and wine only, while hot pans of intoxicating spices sizzle behind the bar. We started with a basket of Papadum - a crisp rounded cracker made from peeled black gram flour (a kind of chickpea) and lentils served with a pretty side of sweet pickled mango. Me, I can never pass up a chance for Chicken Tikka Masala. After years of hightailing it to Middletown to indulge myself in England's favorite dish, the idea of having a good one at my fingertips is thrilling! Their rendition of char-grilled chicken swimming in a creamy, fragrant tomato sauce was the best I've had in a very long time. My vegetarian lunch date chose the tasty Aloo Paneer Matar, a comforting dish of green peas, potatoes and spiced cheese cubes blended with aromatic spices and cream. In the spirit of sampling, we had to have an order of Garlic Naan (Indian flatbread cooked in a clay oven with garlic and coriander) to sop up the sauces and a cooling Mango Lassi (rich yogurt blended with fresh mango). Both were as on point as the main dishes. While we sank into the comfy couches, Sima, our lovely server whipped up some soothing, milky Chai Masala and brought us each a Gulab Jamun - a ball of light pastry made from dry milk and floating in honey syrup. I can't wait to go back and order my way through the entire menu testing traditional items like Biryani, Vindaloo, Korma and other street food faves. Good to know: In the evenings, enjoy Bollywood music and Indian food shows projected on the wall. Cash ONLY. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

See all

Wonderful ambiance! Cozy and festive, with a delicious intoxicating aroma. Pleasant and courteous wait staff. Delicious food, served promptly and hot! It appears they have a robust take out business too! The restaurant is set up to prevent the spread of COVID. Very nice evening out with my husband!! read more

The food here was excellent, it really was. The onion bhajjia was like nothing I've ever had before, and the channa masala was great. The inside of the restaurant is adorable and cozy, though intimate. We were sitting right next to a couple and ended up talking because it almost felt rude not to because we were no more than a foot away from each other. However...I ran into the same issue that I have had at several indian restaurants. The channa masala is clearly labeled gluten free and vegan. Wonderful! I am so relieved when things are clearly labeled so I don't have to ask several questions. I have found that I have to double check about the rice that comes with the meals at indian restaurants, because several of them have put butter in the rice and not disclosed that despite me telling them that I don't eat dairy. I asked the waitress if they put butter in their rice, she checked with the chef, and they do put butter in the rice. I was disappointed. The meal is labeled vegan, I should not have to double check if the whole entity of the meal is actually dairy free. Another worker came over to speak to me and I had to explain to her that I understand that the channa masala chickpea mixture itself is vegan, but it is misleading to label it vegan when the other half of the meal has dairy in it. If someone has a dairy allergy and the meal is labeled vegan, they should feel safe ordering it. I have had other indian restaurants argue with me and try to say "you asked about the channa masala, not the rice" when clearly the rice is part of the meal and always has been at every indian restaurant. I'm glad Himalaya did not try to argue with me, and instead apologized, explained that they cannot make me separate rice because it takes too long, and offered me papadum and salad instead. The food was great in the end, but I continue to be upset with restaurants that do not think critically about how they are labeling their food, especially when it comes to an allergy. read more

See all

A great restaurant option added to the shoreline area ! The naan bread is spectacular, very light and crispy. The saag curry with chicken was very good as well. You can choose how spicy each dish should be so it is good for group tastes ! The only downside is it is awkward for larger groups if you do not get the one large table in the center. Small groups of no more than four, however, are very comfortable ! The decor is thought out and inviting. read more

What a waste! This restaurant: 1. Does not answer the phone during ordinary/normal restaurant hours!. 2. Or if voice mail answers, it tells you not to leave a message. 3. Or voice mail tells you to call back during business hours, even though the time is 7:00 pm on a Thursday. 4. Doesn't publicize its actual phone number. 5. Doesn't maintain a web site, for example Himalayacafe.com, where one could read the menu, find a true phone number, learn the open for business hours, etc. 6. Makes customers wait one hour and 45 minutes for a take-out dinner. (Yes you read that correctly -- 105 minutes!) This place might have good food, and I enjoy Indian food, but most people will never experience it, because they will do what we have done -- GIVE UP! -- because it is not worth the hassle! read more

We happened on Himalaya Cafe on a day trip thanks to Yelp. I can not recommend this place enough. Everything was exceptional. Great vegan options too. Nice atmosphere and the staff was super friendly. We really enjoyed meeting the chef/owner & being able to watch him make our dinner in the open kitchen. This is now my hands down favorite Indian place in CT. If you are in the area, do yourself a favor and check it out read more

My friend and I found this little gem after shopping at the outlets. We were starving and were looking for something healthy and unique for dinner. Yelp directed us to the Himalaya Cafe and we are so glad it did. The restaurant is small but cozy and nicely decorated. Everything was clean and organized- even the restroom (the soap smelled good!). We ordered the garlic naan to start and ate every crumb! We ordered the Tikka Masala and a Tandoor dish of grilled chicken in a cilantro, mint, and yogurt sauce...everything PERFECTLY marinated and seasoned . DELICIOUS. WONDERFUL. AMAZING. We ate until we couldn't eat anymore. We can't wait to go back! read more

Himalaya Cafe - Garlic naan - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

See all

Great food and fantastic vibes. Love the taste and spices of this authentic Indian restaurant. The staff is very accommodating to all dietary restrictions read more

The food is here is absolutely amazing. The service, atmosphere, and menu all come together for a spectacular experience. Not only are the authentic Indian dishes fantastic but the traditional breakfast is spot on. I had some of the best pancakes I've ever had (even better than Christy's). The chicken tikka masala on the lunch/dinner menu is amazing. I would highly suggest this place to anyone and everyone. I will definitely be going back time and time again. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Chocolate chip pancakes stuffed with vanilla cream cheese. - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

We had the perfect meal here. Started with Pappadum's with Mango Chutney, so light and tasty with a great peppery after-burn. Then on to Lamb Korma, Shrimp Saag and Garlic Naan served with fluffy Jasmine rice. The lamb chunks were good sized and very tender. The shrimp was large, 2-3 bites. The Saag and Korma sauces may be 2 of the best I have had in a 25 year history of enjoying Indian food. Finished off with Kheer and Gulab Juman, both desserts my favorite Indian desserts ever. Our server Mary was perfectly attentive and the timing of the food from when we ordered to when we received, couldn't have been better. We will add this relatively new place to our favorite restaurant rotation! read more

Excellent food and such nice wait staff. Very very good. Chicken tikka masala and the curry unbelievable

Pricey but very unique Indian experience. They have a whimsical sense of decor, many low easy comfy couches and places to sit, funny stuffed animals to chill with, and filled with the quirky smart cosmopolitan people in town. On my visit ran into two artist friends and some Yale professors. The food was good, a little more pricey than standard Indian fare, but the scene is so worth a visit, especially on a weekend. read more

Great find, I had the chicken tikka marsala for dinner there. Good atmosphere, music and decor. Conversed with Sima while dining. She answered any questions I had, was there to help if I needed anything, along with the waitress/hostess working with her. The Indian Chef prepared my meal superbly, dinner was great, presentation was very nice, all in all a great dining experience. Sima asked if I wanted it mild, medium or hot, so don't be deterred if you think all Indian food is too spicy. At Himalaya Cafe they will prepare your meal to your taste preference. Definitely will go again when I am back in the area. read more

Himalaya Cafe - Chicken Tikka Marsala, very good! - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

My husband and I had an outrageously delicious lunch at this fun and eclectic cafe. He ordered lamb curry (hot!) and it arrived perfectly tender and full of complex flavors. My chicken tikka was scrumptious and carefully prepared. His order came with delicious and fragrant rice, and we rounded out the meal with nan bread from the tandoori oven, and an interesting raita garnish. The meal was served graciously and with care. Entrees do take a few minutes as they're prepared to order. Beer and wine is available. The tables are small, but we were told that new, large ones are on order. In our view, that will make The Himalayan Cafe pretty much perfect. read more

The food is very good. No reservations and on our Saturday night the service was very slow. But staff is attentive and a dessert was gratis. We will be back read more

We discovered this place tonight and boy what a treat. You come into a nicely appointed place and are greeted by super friendly people and seated in a cozy environment. The chef cooks out in the open right before you and each dish is individually prepare. We had chicken tiki masala and lamb masala, which both sound like an easy dish. While they are a common and easy dish to prepare, they are both really hard to prepare correctly. Here is was perfect and perhaps the best I have had within the northeast. Super fresh and super delicious. Just awesome. We also had the garlic nan which was a perfect pairing and perfectly done. One thing you call always look for is the rice. Is is good or is it perfect. Here it was out of the park. I had the first mixed drink, something passion martini, and it was delicious. It is a fun place, with awesome food, and at a price that is most reasonable. Complete five star place that is sure to be a regular for me. I can't give this place enough praise. Check it out. A diamond in the rough! read more

Great food! Not greasy at all as some others have posted. Also, good music, clean, well decorated, and a friendly staff. More people need to learn about Himalayan cafe! They have some vegetarian dishes. There's Shakahari next door, I'm hoping to try them soon (they're supposed to be family.) read more

Visited the Himalaya Cafe and had a wonderful time! The ambiance and decor is super cool, and the drinks and food were excellent! Sima took care of us, and she was very welcoming and informative. She recommended some EXCELLENT items and told us that all of the furnishings are actually from Asia. We will definitely be back for more! Thank you! read more

Himalaya Cafe - Incredible lounge for drinks and dining! We love it! - Indian Near Me - Old Saybrook, Connecticut