GRAND FORKS — In the lowest of sea levels, Grand Forks is welcoming a new restaurant — Mt. Everest 8,848 feet.

Since its opening this month, the small, cozy restaurant has been visited by a variety of curious guests. They wonder and want to see a restaurant named after a world’s highest peak has its name chosen for the lowest level reading of Grand Forks.

There is a glassed in display of foods that are on the menu. Appetizers include naan bread and neplai pan puri. The food is designed for eating in or takeout.

Twenty entrée choices include a creamy butter chicken ($10.99) and Himalayan Thupka ($8.99). The choices are pictured on the menu.

There are desserts — desi sweets and Nepali rice pudding.

The restaurant opened formally with an introduction by ambassadors from the Grand Forks Chamber last week.

The restaurant is small, attractive and cozy. There is seating at tables or on chairs at the bar. There is a buffet style counter where customers can order their choices.

Owners of the restaurant have other businesses in Grand Forks. There’s Haaam-ro Bazar, an international market, and Blessed Homecare with non-medical service for anyone over 18. The couple have two young children who seem to feel at home n the restaurant.

My second visit to the restaurant was interesting with curious companions including Matt Dunlevy who were pleased with the new restaurant and the experience of eating there. —

Mt. Everest 8,848 - Taste of the Himalayas

Owners: Binod and Laxmi Kharel

Hours: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. with 10m p.m. closing Friday and Saturday; closed Sunday

Report card: Unique Himalayan café with cozy and inviting ambience. Décor in tones of blue enriches experience. Food choices are extensive.