Spring Break
Kumari will satisfy Indian food cravings
Issue date: 4/30/09
Mount Vernon is known for its music facilities, culture and ethnic food, among other things. Kumari seems to be one among many in the crowd, but its quality of food and service make it stand out, even though its relatively plain exterior could use a new paint job. It sits two blocks north of Washington Circle, a short walk from the JHMI shuttle's stop at Peabody Conservatory.
The restaurant is distinct from other Indian restaurants in the immediate area in that it serves food from both India and Nepal. Stepping into the building out of the waning heat of the sun, my friend and I are greeted with a dimly-lit interior after a short flight of steps. The restaurant is divided into three sections extending into the back of the building. The kitchen area is below the restaurant, and all dishes rise from the stairs in the center of the restaurant.
After we are seated, we are presented with the menu and poured glasses of ice water. The setting can be either formal or casual: It is really the diner's choice. There are folded cloth napkins and a paper placemat, with a small plate to the side, but it doesn't necessarily have to be a restaurant for a fancy date simply because it has nice table settings.
Kumari's items appear rather pricey at first glance, but one must remember that the restaurant strives for quality and uniqueness. The entrée items range from $10 to $15 or more and are quite varied. There are extensive chicken, lamb and vegetarian sections, as well as salads and appetizers for those who are interested. The menu also contains various specialty sections with a variety of choices.
On the back is a drink menu, including various wines. My friend and I each ordered a lassi, which is an Indian yogurt drink. Mine was strawberry flavored, while his was mango. We also got an order of garlic naan ($3) to share. At an Indian restaurant, it is important to sample staple foods like naan. I ordered an eggplant dish called Baigar Bhartha ($11), while my friend ordered lamb jalfreezi ($14).
The restaurant is distinct from other Indian restaurants in the immediate area in that it serves food from both India and Nepal. Stepping into the building out of the waning heat of the sun, my friend and I are greeted with a dimly-lit interior after a short flight of steps. The restaurant is divided into three sections extending into the back of the building. The kitchen area is below the restaurant, and all dishes rise from the stairs in the center of the restaurant.
After we are seated, we are presented with the menu and poured glasses of ice water. The setting can be either formal or casual: It is really the diner's choice. There are folded cloth napkins and a paper placemat, with a small plate to the side, but it doesn't necessarily have to be a restaurant for a fancy date simply because it has nice table settings.
Kumari's items appear rather pricey at first glance, but one must remember that the restaurant strives for quality and uniqueness. The entrée items range from $10 to $15 or more and are quite varied. There are extensive chicken, lamb and vegetarian sections, as well as salads and appetizers for those who are interested. The menu also contains various specialty sections with a variety of choices.
On the back is a drink menu, including various wines. My friend and I each ordered a lassi, which is an Indian yogurt drink. Mine was strawberry flavored, while his was mango. We also got an order of garlic naan ($3) to share. At an Indian restaurant, it is important to sample staple foods like naan. I ordered an eggplant dish called Baigar Bhartha ($11), while my friend ordered lamb jalfreezi ($14).
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