Shimbu

Aptly named Shimbu (translated to "delicious") is a family run eatery with dishes hailing from Tibet.

The second restaurant from the team previously behind popular Northcote venue Wild Yak, their latest venture, Shimbu, is vibrant and delivers an impeccable menu of both contemporary and traditional Tibetan cuisine - The first half representing traditional Tibetan food with dishes such as sha momos, solo and chasa bedhai while the second half featuring Shimbu's spin on traditional dishes - Think spicy or mild pork belly soft tacos (served on roti instead of a tortilla) or cumin infused lamb ribs with a side of spicy apple and orange salad. 

On top of offering BYOW, the restaurant offers a wide selection of drinks both alcoholic (cocktails and range of local/craft/international beers) and non-alcoholic (smoothies, milkshakes).

The ambience is modern and relaxed with wooden furnishings, exposed bricks and anchored by a central bar. 

Almost a year old, the venue runs seamlessly thanks to a passionate and personable team which ensure that all the vibrancy of Tibetan cuisine comes through on every plate.

We started with the fried vegetarian sha momos (handmade dumplings) which featured crispy pastry encasing melt in your mouth morsels and curried potato and spices. 

For mains the calamari solo was an absolute showstopper. Perfectly cooked ribbons of calamari were cooked with fresh chilli, onion and tomato and boasted a beautiful balance of heat, sweetness, acidity and salt.

The marmo bedhai (chicken curry) was another favourite. Luscious melt in your mouth morsels of chicken coated in luxurious coconut milk curry. A dish perfect with tingmo (Tibetan bun) to mop up all the goodness!

With a menu grounded in authentic Tibetan flavours paired with modern techniques, local produce and ingredients, Shimbu pleases with a sophisticated and interesting menu unlike any other offering in Melbourne.

Location: 58 Lygon St, Brunswick East
Phone: (03) 9939 0224