EAT: Mcleodganj, Nick’s Italian Kitchen

My thoughts about Nick’s is the same now (several months after returning home) as it was after my meal…I’m not sure what the fuss is about. Several travel guides mentioned this place by name, and even a few tourists in town made mention of this casual, bright and airy establishment. Finding it was simple, just a short walk from the Main Chowk on the same road to Bhagsu Nag Temple.

While walking along the cramped streets of Mcleodganj, you can’t help but notice the brightly lit interior through the large, full length glass windows. A few steps up off the street deliver a perch above the crowds outside. The menu is a random mix of mostly Italian, but also Tibetan and some Indian foods. While the descriptions made my mouth water, what actually arrived was about what I should have expected. Ordering Italian food in a remote hill station in the northern part of India is just not right.

Mcloedganj’s vast amount of restaurants all seem to serve a good honey lemon ginger tea. Nick’s version was harsh, burning at times as it went down. Instead of a calming, soothing effect, I felt betrayed by the liquid staring at me yet I continued drinking given the Rs 15 premium over the average cost around town. Unfortunately, it made it’s final demise in the drain after I left.

A dish of penne pasta (the gnocchi was sold out) was presented with a sparingly measured amount of sauteed mushrooms. The garlic cream sauce I was looking forward to was nothing more than garlic powder and butter all topped with some grated cheese. Bland, nearly tasteless except for the overpowering garlic powder, the meal was filling only in quantity.

Notable about my experience was the atmosphere: Relaxed & breezy thanks to open doors and windows looking onto the open air dining section out back. The service was prompt and the server very cheery. Most of the tables were empty the night I visited but, over the course of 3 days walking past, this night’s crowd was atypical.

Because of the peaceful surroundings and quick service I can’t say skip Nick’s Italian Kitchen, however, exhaust your other options before eating here.

For a great meal anytime, try Gakyi on the main drag instead.

© 2010 FullStopIndia.com India Travel Blog

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