The culinary landscape of Salt Lake City gains even more flavor as the Himalayan Kitchen, a go-to spot for Indian and Nepalese eats, is set to faithfully serve up a second helping of its revered dishes with the aid of a recent economic development loan. The expansion is fueled by a $350,000 assist from the city's Economic Development Loan Fund (EDLF), which eyes to bolster local enterprises that stand as communal cornerstones.
In a move slated to simultaneously enrich a historic part of town, the restaurant's new location is part and parcel of the Shades of Pale initiative, targeting the Engine Block building rebirth. As obtained by Salt Lake City, Mayor Erin Mendenhall believes that "this loan not only helps a longtime favorite grow, but it also brings new energy and investment to a historic part of our city." The echo of this sentiment is found in the voice of Council Member Darin Mano, who, looking forward to the restaurant's role in the architectural revival, told the blog that "Himalayan Kitchen has been a gathering place in Downtown Salt Lake City for 20 years and I’m excited to see it expand to Ballpark."
Since its 2005 conception by Surya Bastakoti, Himalayan Kitchen has nestled itself deeply into the affections of locals, offering a gastronomic window into the heart of the Himalayas, which it will soon share through additional brick and mortar at 1388 S. 300 West. Celebrations of its expansion were marked with an April 5th opening, symbolizing more than just a new dining venue but a substantial leg up for the historical neighbourhood it's set to reenergize.
The EDLF loan, as detailed by the Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development, is pouring into tenant improvements for the new space, kitchen equipment and fixtures, specialized machinery to support food preparation and service, an investment in strong returns that goes beyond the financial, fostering a resilient local economy. It is in the emblematic story of an entrepreneur like Surya that Director Lorena Riffo Jenson finds the true spirit of the EDLF. She assertively told the Salt Lake City that “Surya’s story and his success is exactly what our Economic Development Loan Fund is here to support.”
