Himalaya Grocery

This little upstart of a grocery specializing in Nepalese, Indian (likely Northern) and all things Halal sits at the far Western end of Minnesota Ave. in KCK, best known as a hot spot for Mexican and Central American cuisine and groceries. I have a strong interest in all things Himalayan and travel to Queens frequently and stay in the heart of Jackson Heights, heavily populated with recent arrivals from Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Northern India. I go there for the specific purpose of exploring that cuisine so the fact that I was having Michoacan tacos next door made a visit here a no-brainer. Alas, no fresh panipuri, momos or fuschka, just canned and bagged groceries.And what's this? No presence on Yelp? Now I'm being begged to walk in the door. Like a moth drawn to light, I cannot resist this kind of experience.It should go without saying that there's clear evidence the folks operating this are looking to establish what most recent immigrants want: foods and products that remind them of the home they left. I've explored some of the grocery stores in the area of Queens and can only say they're off to a start here with an awful lot of room to grow, not surprisingly. If you're looking for their version of Hen House, Hy-Vee or even Bonito Michoacan a few blocks East, this won't be it.Tried having a conversation with a guy working there but he was unfamiliar with Queens and the area of my interest. Then I tried to chat with him about a friend from Lawrence who is Napalese and owns two very popular restaurants but got blank stares. Not totally sure he knew where Lawrence was. No problem, can't say I'm surprised. Offering this info to point out that my impression is the people running it may be pretty new to the states. I happen to appreciate this.Bought a couple of small items and went on my way. May stop in again. Interested to know if there's a small diaspora from this region of the world settling in KCK. Wouldn't be surprised. Stop in next time you're in the area. Just walk in the door. No one bites. No, really, it's OK.

They are very friendly and they have good prices on ciggetettes...i wish they were open later