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Tibet Nepal House

36 E Holly St, Pasadena, CA 91103
$$
Himalayan/Nepalese, Indian, Indian

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Tibet Nepal House 8.2
Old Pasadena
Since 2001, this tranquil Himalayan sanctuary has been serving authentic Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian cuisine with house-made momos and fragrant curries cooked with exotic spices like jimbu and timboor. The weekend champagne brunch buffet draws locals seeking variety, while their yak dishes offer a rare protein experience unavailable elsewhere in Pasadena.
Must-Try Dishes: Steamed Chicken Momos, Yak Curry, Lamb Thali
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 7.8 Consistency: 8.1 Food Quality: 8.5 Atmosphere: 7.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Only restaurant in Pasadena serving authentic yak meat dishes
Who should go: Adventurous eaters seeking Himalayan authenticity
When to visit: Weekend brunch for champagne buffet experience
What to order: Momos, yak curry, thukpa noodle soup
Insider tip: Free parking validation at Parsons Lot
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free 90-min validation at Parsons Lot (entrance on Holly St), street parking limited after 5pm
Dress code: Casual - anything from shorts to business casual fits in
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - perfect for conversation
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, weekend brunch buffet gets busy 11:30am-1pm
Weekday lunch: No wait, immediate seating usually available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options, over half the menu is vegetarian including dedicated sections
Vegan options: Yes - many dishes can be made vegan, ask about dairy in breads/sauces
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice-based dishes available but cross-contamination possible, notify server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - quiet atmosphere allows conversation, exotic menu creates talking points, and mid-range pricing won't break the bank. The unique yak dishes make for a memorable experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, walk-ins welcome. Weekend dinners and Sunday brunch buffet can get busy - call ahead or expect 20-30 minute wait during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - high chairs available, mild options like plain naan and rice dishes work for picky eaters. The weekend brunch buffet lets kids try multiple items. Staff is patient with families.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Himalayan specialties you can't find elsewhere - only place in Pasadena for yak meat, house-made momos superior to other Indian restaurants, unique spices like jimbu unavailable at typical curry houses
Skip if: You want traditional North Indian restaurant ambiance with tandoori specialties - choose Bhanu's or All India Cafe instead. Also skip if seeking upscale date night atmosphere - it's more casual family-style.