Top South Asian restaurant Woodside” refers to: a place that feels genuine, multiracial, and full of flavor.
Historically, the building was once a pizzeria — the decor retains faint Top South Asian restaurant Woodside echoes of that, but layered now with Nepali carvings and artifacts, giving the place a modest, homey, slightly rustic vibe.
The pace of service can be relaxed (some reviewers describe it as slow or erratic), but many feel the authenticity and uniqueness of the food makes up for it.
What to Eat: Signature Dishes & Menu Highlights
Woodside Café offers a variety of Nepalese/Himalayan dishes — among the most recommended:
Momos — Himalayan-style dumplings (vegetarian or meat) are often a star. One popular variant is “momo in pink cream sauce,” a creamy fusion sauce giving traditional momos a unique twist.
Thalis or set meals — including vegetarian and meat options. Many reviewers recommend the “regular thali” as a go-to order for a full, balanced Himalayan meal.
Soups and stews — dishes like “thukpa” (a Himalayan noodle soup) or dal/vegetable soups bring warmth and Himalayan comfort food vibes.
Vegetarian & Meat Options — they cater both to vegetarians and meat-eaters; some dishes highlight traditional Nepalese spices and ingredients.
Dessert option: traditional treats — for instance, “dhau baji,” a kind of rice-pudding / yogurt-rice mix dessert — for those who want to try something authentically Nepali after the main course.
The food offers a refreshing alternative to more common South-Asian cuisines (Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi), giving diners a taste of Himalayan and Newari culinary traditions.
People looking for authentic Himalayan/Nepali flavors — especially dishes they might not find elsewhere in NYC.
Groups of friends or pairs who like to share — the “platter” or thali + momo + soups make for a hearty and communal meal.
Those open to adventurous eating — for people curious about cuisines outside the mainstream (especially Nepalese/Newari).
Casual dining — the atmosphere is modest to relaxed; the décor is simple and a bit grungy, but warm and unpretentious.