Gurkha Cafe & Restaurant Edinburgh — Restaurant in City of Edinburgh

An Authentic Nepalese Culinary Experience in Edinburgh

Walking past this Nepalese restaurant, I was immediately struck by its vibrant and inviting ambiance. The lively atmosphere, combined with the warm glow from within, hinted at a space rich in culture and hospitality. As I stepped inside, I was greeted with an interior that perfectly captured the essence of Nepalese heritage. From traditional woodwork to intricate decorations showcasing Nepal’s diverse culture, every corner of the restaurant felt like a homage to the country's deep-rooted traditions. Beautifully framed images of Nepal’s breathtaking landscapes and famous tourist destinations adorned the walls, further adding to the immersive experience.

The hospitality was second to none. Each staff member greeted guests with a warm welcome, dressed in traditional Nepalese attire, including the iconic dhaka topi, which added an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. The service was not just efficient but also heartfelt, creating an atmosphere that felt less like a restaurant visit and more like a brief journey to Nepal itself.

Moving on to the food, I had the pleasure of trying the chicken momos, which were nothing short of exceptional. The presentation rivaled that of high-end fine dining establishments—beautifully arranged dumplings accompanied by a carefully garnished salad with a light dressing. The attention to detail in plating alone showed the dedication of the kitchen team.

The momos themselves were a delight. Perfectly steamed, they struck a balance between a tender yet firm outer layer and a flavorful, juicy filling. What truly stood out was the momo chutney—a well-balanced, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce that enhanced the dumplings without overpowering them. It had just the right level of heat, making it enjoyable for all spice preferences. What impressed me most was the authenticity of the flavors, reminiscent of the homemade momos I grew up eating. They were neither overly oily nor overly spiced—just pure, well-balanced Nepalese goodness.

A highlight of the evening was meeting the chef, who generously took the time to interact with diners. He passionately explained the cooking techniques and the principles that set their dishes apart. It was reassuring to learn that the restaurant avoids artificial food coloring and prioritizes high-quality, fresh ingredients—a commitment to excellence that was evident in every bite.

Beyond the kitchen, the bar staff and waiters maintained a high standard of service. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic about sharing Nepalese culture, they contributed to the overall warm and welcoming experience.

Final Verdict

This restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a cultural experience. From the authentic decor and exceptional hospitality to the delicious, thoughtfully prepared dishes, every aspect of my visit transported me back to Nepal. Whether you're a Nepalese food enthusiast or a first-timer looking for an authentic introduction to Nepalese cuisine, this establishment is a must-visit in Edinburgh. A truly memorable dining experience that I will undoubtedly be...

We visited this restaurant, hoping to enjoy some authentic flavors, but unfortunately, our experience was far from enjoyable. The restaurant was nearly empty when we arrived, with only one table occupied. We started with appetizers, ordering the momo and piro kukhura. The momo was decent, and the piro kukhura was actually tasty– it had a good flavor and was a nice start to the meal. However, things quickly went downhill when we moved on to the main course. We ordered the chicken biryani and the chicken thali. The chicken thali wasn’t on the menu, but since I was craving rice, the server dai said he could make it for me. He promised to prepare a special thali, which sounded like a good idea at the time. Unfortunately, both dishes were terrible. The chicken biryani was the worst we’ve ever had poorly made and lacking flavor. My boyfriend couldn’t even finish it. The chicken thali was no better. The lentils were bland, the curry lacked depth, and the chicken was unappetizing. I could only manage two spoonfuls of rice before giving up. To make matters worse, we were charged £19 for that disappointing and inedible chicken thali, which felt overpriced for what we got. Overall, it was a terrible experience. We went in with high hopes for some good Nepalese food, but we left feeling let down and unsatisfied. We will not be returning and would not recommend this...

Gurkha Café & Restaurant, Edinburgh — A Himalayan Hug in the Heart of the City

Tucked away just off the Royal Mile, Gurkha Café offers a soulful blend of Nepalese and Indian cuisine that feels both comforting and quietly adventurous. On our visit, the kitchen delivered a memorable meal that balanced bold spice with gentle warmth.

I opted for the Poleko Kukhura — a Nepalese grilled chicken dish that arrived sizzling and aromatic. The marinade was deeply spiced, with smoky charred edges and a subtle citrus lift that made each bite sing. It paired beautifully with the pilau rice, which was fragrant and fluffy, and the garlic naan, blistered and golden with just the right chew. Washed down of course with a nice cold bottle of Gurkha Beer.

My partner chose the butter chicken, a classic done right. Creamy, rich, and mellow, it offered a soothing counterpoint to my fiery choice. The sauce clung lovingly to tender chunks of chicken, and the naan made for perfect scooping.

Service was warm and attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere — cozy, with soft lighting and Himalayan touches — made it easy to linger.

Whether you're craving comfort or curious to explore Nepalese flavours, Gurkha Café delivers with heart. We left full, happy, and already...