Maiti Ghar Nepalese Resturant by Machhan — Restaurant in West Bengal

After a wonderful day riding the Himalayan Mountain Railway "Toy Train," we were looking for an authentic place to enjoy our final evening in beautiful Darjeeling. Maiti Ghar was recommended by fellow travellers at our hotel, who warned us it might be tricky to find — and they were right. Don’t be discouraged by the narrow alley or the modest exterior. Once inside the Elite Hotel where the restaurant is located, you'll find a warm and welcoming spot.

The staff were very friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. Maiti Ghar specialises in Thakali cuisine, a traditional Nepalese style of cooking known for its balanced and flavourful thali platters: "traditional Nepalese cuisine, named after the Thakali people, that features a platter (thali) with a balanced mix of rice, dal (lentil soup), and various side dishes".

I opted for the mutton (goat) thali, which was a feast of delicious and diverse dishes: I ordered their mutton (goat) option:

"Our special meal set is one which has it all with the best of thalkali included with a vareity - Makai mix Rice, Jimbu Jhaneyko Dal, Special Dahi, Basti ko Ghew, Sag, 3 kinds of Achhar, Aloo Dum, Home made Selroti, Special Mutton Curry. Rasmithai"

I didn’t recognise every dish, but I enjoyed most of them. One or two were just a bit too spicy for me.

A very good meal and a perfect way to end our Darjeeling adventure. Highly recommended for anyone seeking authentic Nepali flavours and warm hospitality.

(Also posted to my food blog on Instagram...

My go-to Thakali restaurant! I visit this place regularly, and every time I’m here, the food never disappoints. The dal bhat is always fresh and flavourful, the gundruk ko achar adds the perfect tang, and the curry is cooked just right tender, spicy, and satisfying.

The staff are consistently warm, polite, and attentive. They make me feel at home every time I walk in. The place is clean, cozy, and has a lovely traditional Thakali vibe that I really appreciate.

I truly enjoy the peaceful ambience and the authentic flavors they serve. It’s not just about the food, it’s the whole experience. This is one of those places that I always look forward to coming back to. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a real...

I absolutely love this restaurant , it’s my everyday go-to spot😇 The staff is always friendly, and the owner is just as welcoming. A special mention to Neharika, the manager , she’s the best😚 If you ever have any issue with food or service, you can go straight to her and she’ll sort it out without any hassle.

The food here is consistently great. You must try their Peri Peri fries with in-house mayo. So addictive🤤 I also love their mixed fried rice, and the chicken in the Thali is always juicy and flavorful. The chicken Sekuwa is a must try along with their Keema noodles. Basically, every thing on the menu is absolutely delicious.

Definitely a must-visit. I’d recommend...