By Peter Barhydt
In July of last year, Bhanu Oli and family opened the doors to their first restaurant, Taste of Everest, in Fairfield. Despite its small size, the restaurant quickly became a favorite among locals. The overwhelming traffic and reservations underscored the need for a larger space, prompting Mr. Oli to open a second location in Norwalk in May, which features seating for 100 and a full bar.
Mr. Oli, whose culinary roots trace back to his birthplace in New Delhi and upbringing in Nepal, brings a unique blend of Indian and Nepalese cuisine to Fairfield County. His family plays a significant role in the business. His father hails from India, and his mother from Nepal, both contributing to the restaurant’s diverse menu. They supervise the recipes and kitchen operations, ensuring that the dishes maintain their authentic flavors.
The menu at Taste of Everest is extensive, featuring popular Nepalese items such as momo (dumplings), mixed vegetable curry, and dal jhaneko (yellow lentil and chickpea). From India, the offerings include lasuni gobi (cauliflower), chicken butter masala, and lamb rogan josh. Mr. Oli emphasizes that all dishes are prepared fresh, with minimal oil and fat, using special high-altitude spices like Timur, which are sourced from near Mount Everest.
Customer satisfaction is a cornerstone of Mr. Oli’s business philosophy. The Fairfield location boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating from nearly 380 reviews, a testament to the quality and freshness of the food. Mr. Oli is hands-on in his approach, regularly checking customer feedback to ensure high standards are maintained.
The success of Taste of Everest in Fairfield has set the stage for further expansion. The Oli family plans to open a third location in Stamford, driven by requests from loyal customers. His ambitious goal is to establish 10 Taste of Everest restaurants within the next three to five years, bringing his family’s culinary legacy to a broader audience.
Taste of Everest operates from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, offering residents of Fairfield and Norwalk an opportunity to savor authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a standout dining destination in the area.
For those looking to experience the unique flavors crafted by Mr. Oli and his family, a visit to Taste of Everest is a must. Whether you’re in the mood for the delicate spices of Nepalese momos or the rich flavors of Indian chicken butter masala, the menu promises a culinary journey that reflects the diverse heritage and passion of its creators.
Taste of Everest is located at 120 New Canaan Avenue, Norwalk. 203-354-0705. http://tasteofeverestnorwalk.com
