GANESHA GHAR

Vegan and Halal Friendly Indian Food with a Nishiogi Attitude
[updated May 2020]

Situated by the Zenpukuji River on the main street heading north from Nishi-Ogikubo Station, Ganesha Ghar offers authentic Indian cuisine for all, including vegetarian, vegan and halal friendly dishes.

It’s an airy, bright restaurant with an idyllic mural by a local artist depicting Ganesha (the Elephant-headed Hindu God) dancing with children and animals in the Himalayas. This colourful, playful scene is fitting as the staff are also always smiling and friendly. The overall feel is relaxed, comfortable and family-friendly with a community feel as you are greeted with Nishiogi hospitality.

Though the restaurant is not Halal certified and does not have a Muslim chef, everything is prepared in accordance with halal requirements, there is no pork or beef on the premises and no alcohol is used in the cooking. They use only halal-certified chicken and lamb.

The lunch menu is a subset of the larger evening dinner menu. Weekend lunch set meals include a cup of chai and unlimited naan– just ask for more when you need it.

Carnivores and pescetarians can enjoy their meat and seafood in a variety of dishes with different levels of spiciness. For instance, chicken or lamb creamy curry with cashews, or masala or with spinach or beans or eggplant. Tandoori chicken or prawn and enormous naan are cooked in the special tandoor oven. Seafood includes tuna, shrimp and swordfish dishes.

Good news for vegans and vegetarians is that there are always options on the menu, clearly marked. The set menu Thali (platter) is a good meal in size though it’s nice to add one or two a la carte extras. The vegan Thali includes wholemeal roti, papadum, rice, two curry dishes, pakoda, achaar pickle, salad and includes a drink.

The chickpeas in the Chana Masala are nice and plump, the Vegetable Curry has a healthy mix of different vegetables and if you’re a fan of eggplant (who isn’t?), the Baingan Masala is irresistible.

Although vegan dishes are clearly marked on the menu, it is best to state that you want everything vegan, the staff understand and can ensure that your order is fully plant-based. They can also serve vegan momo (dumplings), highly recommended, but you will need to order them in advance.

Various breads and rice are available, the jeera (cumin) rice is delicious and can be made vegan on request and there is a selection of sides and salads.

There are just a few dessert options, they may not be vegan but if you ask they can probably offer a plant-based alternative.

There is a wide choice of beverages such as beers, wine, spirits and Ganesha Ghar original cocktails. Soft drinks include Indian favourites such as lassi, turmeric tea and chai.

Take-out is also available, and there is also a kids set meal, so this is indeed a family-friendly establishment. It’s delightful to see diners ranging from toddlers to the elderly, families, solo-diners, locals, tourists, vegetarians, Muslims and all (did we mention it’s very welcoming!?). At the end of the hearty meal you will feel full and happy. If you’re in no hurry to get home, a leisurely walk along the river is a pleasant way to burn off some calories and you may see some interesting wildlife along the way.

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