Courtyard is a common name among the fine diners in Kathmandu. My friend and I planned for lunch there so I called the restaurant in the morning but could not make a reservation because the phone was unattended, even when I called twice. I called up later in the day and the person on the phone courteously gave the directions of the restaurant and sent someone to show where to park. As soon as I entered the alley leading to the restaurant it was sort of a welcoming environment. At its main entrance the restaurant has a small garden that is not spectacular, it could use a gardener for a facelift.

The restaurant, designed in a lounge style, is housed in a small old building. It has poor lighting and also the wall paint looked very shabby. Though the space has been adorned with quite a few vibrant sculptures they seemed old and unkempt. The test tube flower vases were empty.

The waiter greeted me with a smile who seemed unconfident. After asking him about a few dishes his lack of knowledge was a turn off, which explained his lack of confidence. The first two fish dishes I asked for were not available. Seasonal fruit smoothies were unavailable albeit being on the menu. So, I ended up ordering a Blended Mochaccino for drinks, which took some time to arrive, but it was excellent with defined taste of good coffee.

Pasta Carbonara with white sauce was a delight as an entrée. Though meagre on the portion and poor on the presentation, the taste of cream and meat was soothing. It could use a bit of garnishing for aesthetics though.

COURTYARD RATING

Ambience: 5

Food quality/presentation: 7

Quality of service: 4

Hygiene: 4

Value for money: 6

Overall satisfaction value: 5

Pradeep Karmacharya is an owner of a store. He is  a dog lover and a food enthusiast who loves travelling, adventure  sports, reading, and cooking