Menali

What is Menali? Situated along Danforth Avenue between Chester and Logan in Riverdale, Menali is an independent neighbourhood eatery bridging Himalayan comfort food, Hakka stir-fries, and classic North Indian curries. The dining room is understated, warm, and casual, outfitted with simple booth and table seating alongside a small seasonal sidewalk setup. Run by an earnest local team, it provides the east end with a welcome, spice-driven alternative to the strip's prevailing tavernas.

Menali Menu & What to Order The kitchen's clear calling card is its momo program—especially the charcoal-kissed Tandoori Momo and the herb-coated Mountain Hariyali Momo, both packed with juicy spiced fillings. For cold-weather comfort, order the Jool Momo, which arrives submerged in a fragrant, tangy sesame-and-tomato broth that demands to be spooned up to the last drop. Round out the meal with fiery Hakka Chili Chicken or vegetable Chow Mein, and cool down with a fresh Mango Lassi or cardamom-infused Masala Chai. Vegetarian and vegan guests are well catered to with ample legume curries, vegetable momos, and crisp pakoras.

Know Before You Go Casual walk-ins can usually grab a table without friction, though calling ahead is wise for larger groups during Friday and Saturday dinner rushes. Chester subway station is an easy four-minute walk away, while metered Green P parking lines Danforth Avenue. The kitchen runs daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., making it just as dependable for an unhurried weekday lunch as for evening takeout.