Mountain View's Himalayan Kitchen: Biryani Bliss & Beyond

Mountain View has a gem hiding in plain sight, and if you’re craving some serious Indian flavors, you’ll want to make your way to Himalayan Kitchen. This spot has been buzzing, particularly for a few show-stopping dishes that have folks coming back for more.

Let’s get straight to the star of the show: the Shahi Gost Biryani. Seriously, if you only order one thing, make it this. A self-proclaimed Hyderabadi biryani connoisseur called it out as the best in the Bay Area, and that’s high praise! What makes it special? It’s a white biryani, meaning you get a pure, unadulterated taste of the meat and raw spices infused perfectly into the rice. It’s incredibly juicy, with meat pieces that are unbelievably soft and flavorful. Plus, the portion size is no joke – one order could easily feed two, even if you’re a heavy eater. People are already planning their next order, hoping for that same consistent deliciousness.

But it’s not just biryani that shines. Their Chicken Momos are another winner, served fresh and steamy, scoring a perfect five from one happy diner. And if you’re a naan enthusiast, you absolutely need to try the Garlic Naan. It’s practically perfect, with that ideal balance of crispy edges and a soft, fluffy interior, generously dressed with garlic and ghee.

Now, about the Butter Chicken. While one diner noted it wasn’t the absolute best they’d ever had due to a perceived lack of "depth of flavor," almost everything else about it was spot on. We’re talking perfect thickness, creaminess, and consistency. If you like heat, ask for it spicy – they deliver, and it beautifully complements the dish’s lightly sweet top notes. The chicken itself is plentiful, shockingly tender, and tasted remarkably high quality, even without a strong char or marinade flavor. It's clear a lot of effort goes into this dish, making it a pleasant and enjoyable choice worth trying.

Beyond the food, Himalayan Kitchen offers a welcoming experience. The staff are consistently described as kind and respectful, and the prices are very reasonable, making it a great spot for families. While some have noted a bit of a wait for pickup orders, it might just be a sign of how popular their delicious offerings have become. If you popped in for a Sunday lunch buffet, you might find it pleasantly uncrowded, offering a relaxed vibe to enjoy your meal.

Whether you're diving into that legendary biryani or exploring other well-executed dishes, Himalayan Kitchen in Mountain View is certainly worth a visit. It's the kind of place you discover and quickly add to your regular rotation.