With so many new cuisines and flavours making their way to our shores, there’s one that continues to enjoy its standing as a perennial favourite. There’s a variety of Indian food that caters to every curry connoisseur, as well as the budget and occasion. So, when we heard about newbie Parivaar on Airport Road, we wanted to see just what it brought to the table.

Parivaar translates as “family”, and the restaurant’s minimalist décor and booths work for its family-friendly theme. While its menu includes the usual north Indian curries and tikkas, it’s the page of Nepalese dishes that sets it apart.

Momos are a staple in Nepal and are similar to dim sum, but bigger and with a thicker casing. At Parivaar you can have them steamed, fried or tossed in a chilli sauce. The steamed dumplings are generously filled and the portion of eight works as a sharing starter or even as a meal for one. The accompanying nut-based dipping sauce is interesting, though a more traditional chilli sauce would perhaps have worked better.

There are no such worries with the “C momos”. They turn out to be pretty much the same as the others, but this time tossed in a spicy sauce with chopped peppers. Both these dishes are winners.

Parivaar’s thukpa – a wholesome soup packed with noodles, vegetables and meat – has a tangy kick to it and we lap it all up.

If you must pick a curry, the mango fish offering is a great choice. The delicate fish pairs beautifully with the aromatic, sweet-and-sour gravy and is perfect spooned over some rice. And at only Dhs18 it’s a bargain.

The service is friendly, if a tad slow. They’re just getting started, so we’ll forgive them this time.

The bill (for two)
1x teamed chicken momo Dhs16
1x mix thupka Dhs18
1x desi lemonade Dhs7
1x fish mango curry Dhs18
1x plain rice Dhs8
1x c momo chicken Dhs19
1x small water Dhs2
Total (including taxes) Dhs88