FOOD + DRINK
EVEREST INN
BLACKHEATH’ S HIDDEN HIMALAYAN GEM
BY ADAM READY
There’ s a subtle thrill to walking into Everest Inn on Montpelier Vale, just a stone’ s throw from Blackheath Common. Locals brag about it with a knowing nod: casual décor, soft lighting and an energy of familiarity rather than flash. This isn’ t a showy curry house but a quietly confident neighbourhood gem.
The dining room buzzes with families, couples and friends, their conversations mingling with the clink of cutlery and waft of spices. From the window, glimpses of the heath anchor a soothing London view. The food, however, is where Everest Inn sings. We began with momo- Nepalese dumplings filled with minced chicken, served with a tomato and sesame chutney, and chilli paneer- sizzling cubes of cheese tossed with peppers in a fiery sauce that vanished fast while washed down with a crisp, cold Cobra beer.
For mains, the gurkhali lamb stood out: tender, slow-cooked with yoghurt, green chillies and Nepalese spices, it was bold yet comforting. The hansh bhutuwa, barbecued duck with herbs, garlic and spring onion, was smoky and aromatic. More familiar fare impressed too: chicken tikka masala with a silky tomato base, and a king prawn jalfrezi with plump shellfish and lively chilli. A tandoori salmon, delicately spiced and charred, showcased seafood finesse, while mushroom bhutuwa proved the menu’ s strength for vegetarians.
Much of Everest Inn’ s success comes down to its owner, Yadav. Charismatic yet understated, he runs the restaurant with quiet assurance and a clear passion for Nepalese cuisine. His team is warm but unobtrusive, and in the kitchen, chefs led by executive chef Shanker cook with precision and pride. Together, they’ ve built a restaurant that feels like part of the community.
Weekends bring another draw- the Everest Inn brunch. Blending British staples with Himalayan flair, the menu ranges from spiced omelettes and masala dosas to chicken choila, avocado with spiced chickpeas, or Himalayan pancakes with honey and cardamom yoghurt. Pair your brunch with a steaming masala chai for comfort, or opt for their more celebratory bottomless prosecco
option for a relaxed, leisurely brunch designed for long catch-ups and soaking in the weekend, plate by plate.
It’ s no wonder Everest Inn has gathered accolades: The Independent once named it among the UK’ s Best 50 Eats and it’ s won multiple Asian and British Curry Awards. In 2025, it also marked 20 years as a Blackheath staple; no mean feat anyway, but a true mark of success in today’ s tricky financial climate.
With mains under £ 25, a terrace perfect on warm evenings and a menu spanning everything from fiery curries to refined Himalayan dishes, Everest Inn is more than a restaurant, it’ s a story of people, passion and place. Looking for Himalayan spice, comforting classics and hospitality with heart? Everest Inn delivers with soul and flavour that lingers.
everestinn. co. uk everestinn
92 • www. insidekent. co. uk