A Top of the World Review! - Shanti Guest House Restaurant, Leh

  SHANTI GUEST HOUSE RESTAURANT , LEH, KASHMIR, INDIA

Hello again! El the Cook visited Leh and was astounded by the serenity found within this secluded Himalayan paradise!

Nestled in the bosom of snow-capped mountains,right below the Shanti Stupa, the humble Shanti Guest House is an inviting and comforting abode for travellers and locals alike. The restaurant here is enchanting not only in terms of its food but also its resonating ambiance, leaving you in wonder of the mysteries of the mountains.

Tshering and Dolkar Dorjey (owners of Shanti Guest House) are warm and to be noted for their hospitality.

Welcoming you to the restaurant is about 50 of the largest roses you have ever seen, along with intermittent pastel shades of Himalayan wild flowers! As you enter the seating area, the warmth of the room envelopes you, as golden rays of light glisten off the tables.

The decor reflects the delicate cutlery used by the local people in times of celebration. Large traditional pots and vessels also add to the homely feeling about the place.

A signature drink served for breakfast is Butter Tea, an acquired taste, it contains a concoction of salted butter, locally grown tea and a light sprinkle of  sugar, mixed and strained in a specially designed canister. For the breakfast buffet, the flavors of the Himalayas are served, with locally made apricot jam on toast. Omelets are made to order and are served right off the pan. Indian breakfast are also available with Alu Paratha's ( Spiced Potato Bread) served freshly made.

Lunch is available; both buffet and Ala-Carte offer tasty and sumptuous Indian & Continental food. Traditional Indian breads rotis and chapatis are freshly made and make a great accompaniment with the flavorsome curries offered.

Dinner is served by 7:30 p.m and is one of the most rounded culinary experiences in Leh. Upon request Mr. Dorjey organizes a spectacle of dance and music of the local Leh people. Warm smells of a scented gravy fill the air as the lamb curry is prepared. A glass of wine (bought at the local market) adds a hint of suspense to the air which is filled with sounds of melody, as the local people enact a story.

Freshly prepared saffron rice is served in comforting casseroles, as yet another fuzzy feeling of home comes to mind. Topped with the beautiful lamb gravy the rice comes alive with smoky flavors, spicing up your palette, leaving you wanting another bite!

The Shanti Guest house Restaurant in Leh, gives you a feeling of home, away from home. With some unique and delicious food, its a perfect blend for the senses of a food writer!