InfoTart

Before heading to Diesel Cafe last night to get some work done, Bruce and I had dinner at this amazingly good little Tibetan restaurant just a few doors down.

The place is called Martsa on Elm and appears to be run by a Tibetan family. Considering how tasty our dinner was, it seems that after Junior took our order, Grandma was in the kitchen whipping it up. Fantastic! I love small, family-run places like this that make genuine, good food.

I ordered the Shamday, which was little chunks of beef with potato, carrots, peas, and spinish in a mild Tibetan curry sauce. Served with rice, it was brilliant! I ordered a steamed bun (no filling) and mopped up every drop of the sauce with it.

Bruce ordered the Chicken Chili dish which was crispy fried chicken pieces sauteed inn onions and tomatoes, and served with lots of green, red and yellow peppers. Bruce loved it. I’m not a fan of peppers, but the chicken and its sauce was really good, I have to admit.

Bruce and I both ordered a traditional Tibetan tea which is blended with butter, milk and lightly salted. It was different… but still quite good. It’s definitely worth a try.

Overall, the dishes reminded me of an interesting mix of (American style) Chinese and Indian, which is probably not fair for a comparison. This was the first Tibetan restaurant I think I’ve ever been to, and I have to say that both Bruce and I were raving about our inexpensive meal. (Most entrees are under $10.)

Our server was Tibetan and provided helpful answers to our questions when we asked for advice on dishes and a bread side dish.

I loved this place and look forward to going again soon. And from the way the place filled up as we were finishing our delicious meal, it seems that it’s quite popular.

Martsa on Elm
233-A Elm Street
Davis Square in Somerville (Near Diesel Cafe)
617-666-0660