Himalayan Curry & Kebob Review: Menu, Prices & Worth It?

Menu & Pricing

What Makes Himalayan Curry & Kebob Special

In a mountain town saturated with burgers, steaks, and Mexican food, Himalayan Curry & Kebob offers something genuinely different. With 9,695+ reviews at 4.7 stars, this is the most-reviewed and highest-rated restaurant in Estes Park - a remarkable achievement for any cuisine, let alone one that's distinctly out of the local mainstream.

The secret is authenticity without compromise. The jhol momos - steamed dumplings served in aromatic Nepali soup - have become legendary, with the broth offering layers of spice that warm cold hikers to the bone. But perhaps more impressive is the elk kebob: Colorado's signature game meat prepared in a traditional tandoor oven. It's a fusion that sounds gimmicky but works beautifully - the lean elk benefits from tandoori preparation without losing its distinctive flavor.

Every entrée comes with complimentary kheer (house-made rice pudding) and a chickpea salad - small touches that signal the kitchen's generosity. The chai is outstanding, prepared traditionally with whole spices. The patio seating welcomes dogs, and the interior strikes a comfortable balance between cozy and spacious.

What to Order (Signature Dishes)

Chicken Jhol Momo ($16.95) - The dish that dominates reviews. Steamed dumplings filled with minced chicken arrive swimming in a complex, aromatic soup. For cold days or post-hike recovery, this is medicine. Request extra spice for the full experience - the "spiciest version" delivers serious heat with deep flavor.

Elk Surf & Turf ($20.95) - Colorado elk prepared in the tandoor oven, served with rice and naan. The lean meat benefits from the high heat, staying tender while developing char. Ordering medium-rare is possible and recommended for those who prefer elk properly cooked.

Butter Chicken ($17.50) - A benchmark dish done exceptionally well. Creamy tomato sauce with tender chicken tikka. Multiple reviews call it the best butter chicken in Colorado - high praise for a mountain town. The sauce is rich but balanced.

Lamb Kashmiri ($19.50) - A sweeter, more complex curry with coconut, pineapple, raisins, and almonds. The lamb is fall-apart tender. A departure from the standard Indian restaurant formula - worth trying for those who appreciate unusual spice profiles.

Chaat Samosa ($10.50) - Crispy samosas buried under yogurt, tamarind sauce, mint chutney, and masala powder. It's messy, complex, and completely addictive - a street food classic executed with care.

Masala Chai ($4.50) - The chai is prepared traditionally with whole spices, and it shows. Hot, aromatic, and properly spiced. Worth ordering even if you're just stopping in for a warm drink.

The Honest Take

At 4.7 stars from nearly 10,000 reviews, Himalayan Curry & Kebob has earned its reputation. The food is consistently good, portions are generous, and the complimentary kheer and chickpea salad add genuine value. The chai alone is worth a visit.

Some dishes are more reliable than others. The curries and momos consistently shine. The biryani can feel more like pulao (pilaf) to purists familiar with the Hyderabadi style - good, but not the dish's highest expression. The noodles from the daily specials have been described as disappointing. Stick to the core menu for the best experience.

Expect waits on busy weekends - 30-40 minutes during peak periods. The restaurant fills up, and the atmosphere gets lively (some would say noisy). The interior runs warm when crowded. These are minor complaints against a restaurant that delivers authentic South Asian food in a mountain town at fair prices. For variety after days of burgers and elk steaks, this is the answer.

Who It's For (And Who It's Not For)

Best for: Post-RMNP hikers craving warming, flavorful food different from standard mountain fare. Vegetarians and vegans with extensive clearly-labeled options. Spice lovers who want authentic heat levels. Dog owners who can enjoy patio seating. Groups wanting to share family-style dishes.

Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate dinner (it gets lively), need quick service during peak times (expect waits), or are sensitive to spice. Those seeking traditional American fare should try Bird & Jim or The Grubsteak instead.

Practical Information

• 📍Location: 101 W Elkhorn Ave, downtown Estes Park (just off main strip)
• ⏰Hours: Daily 11am-9pm
• 🚗Parking: Free public lot nearby, street parking available
• ⏳Wait Times: 30-40 min on busy weekends, walk-ins welcome off-peak
• 🌿Dietary: Extensive vegetarian/vegan options, many GF dishes, halal options available
• 🐕Pets: Dog-friendly patio seating
• 🍨Included: Free kheer (rice pudding) and chickpea salad with every entrée
• 🌶️Spice: Mild, Moderate (actually spicy), Hot (serious heat)