Stepping into Dancing Yak in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District is like discovering a hidden gem. From the moment you enter this jewel-toned space, you’re greeted with the promise of authentic Nepali cuisine that quickly becomes a must-try experience. For those in the know, Dancing Yak has long been synonymous with incredible momos, but the exciting news is their menu has evolved, offering an even wider array of skewers and small plates that elevate the dining experience to new heights.
If you haven’t visited Dancing Yak recently, prepare to be delighted. While the menu has been thoughtfully updated, the stars of the show remain. Their legendary momos, filled with savory chicken and aromatic spices, are simply irresistible, especially when paired with their signature spicy tomato and roasted soybean sauce – a flavor combination that’s both comforting and addictive. Beyond the momos, the house specials and curries are equally compelling. Dive into the creamy chicken cashew curry for a rich and nutty indulgence, or explore the spicy baigun tarkari, a surprisingly hearty minced and fire-roasted eggplant dish that caters perfectly to vegan and vegetarian preferences. Speaking of dietary needs, Dancing Yak excels in offering a diverse menu with plenty of vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to love. And to perfectly complement the flavorful food, their expertly crafted cocktails are a must-try, enhancing the overall dining experience.
While some menu items have been refined, such as the daal bhat thali and tandoori plates, the expanded skewer selection is a welcome addition. Featuring chicken, pork, lamb, and paneer, these skewers are grilled to perfection. The lamb skewer, in particular, stands out with its juicy tenderness and beautifully charred crust, brightened by a side of tangy tomato achar. With 15 enticing small plates now on offer, deciding what to order becomes a delightful challenge. For a truly memorable shared dining experience, focus on the spicy sauteed shrimp, tossed in a vibrant ginger sauce, the addictive spicy fried cauliflower, and the generously sized samosas filled with potato and green peas – each one a softball-sized delight.
Dancing Yak isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a reliable destination for almost any occasion. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates large groups, making it ideal for gatherings, yet it maintains a casual and welcoming atmosphere perfect for a relaxed midweek dinner. Even without a reservation, you’ll likely find a table, a testament to the restaurant’s generous space. Beyond the food and ambiance, the staff at Dancing Yak are genuinely friendly and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure every guest has a thoroughly enjoyable meal. It’s not an exaggeration to say that a visit to Dancing Yak is consistently a positive and delicious experience.
A Closer Look at the Menu Highlights
Momos: A Must-Order
The momos at Dancing Yak are more than just dumplings; they are a culinary highlight. Filled with a savory blend of chicken, chives, garlic, and momo masala, these steamed pockets of flavor are elevated by the accompanying creamy, spicy tomato and roasted soybean sauce. Ordering the momos is not optional – it’s essential for experiencing the true essence of Dancing Yak.
Samosa Tarkari: Giant and Flavorful
Prepare to be amazed by the size of the Samosa Tarkari. These spiced potato and pea-filled samosas are truly giant, with just one order easily serving as a starter for a group of three or four. Served with both tamarind chutney and a refreshing mint sauce, they offer a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Spicy Cauliflower: Crispy and Addictive
For those who crave crispy and spicy dishes, the Spicy Cauliflower is a must-try. This vegetarian delight features cauliflower florets fried to crispy perfection and generously coated in a vibrant and spicy chili sauce. It’s an incredibly addictive dish that perfectly balances texture and flavor.
Sauteed Spicy Shrimp: Tangy and Flavorful
The Sauteed Spicy Shrimp is a testament to the power of a well-crafted sauce. Large black tiger shrimp are bathed in a tangy ginger, garlic, and tomato sauce that is simply irresistible. While an order contains only four shrimp, you’ll likely find yourself wanting them all to yourself due to their incredible flavor.
Lamb Skewers: Tender and Charred Perfection
You can’t go wrong with any of the skewer options at Dancing Yak, but the Lamb Skewers are particularly noteworthy. The lamb is marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and spices, then expertly grilled until beautifully charred on the outside while remaining wonderfully tender and juicy on the inside.
Baigun Tarkari: Hearty and Flavorful Eggplant
When the weather turns cool, the Baigun Tarkari is the perfect dish to warm you up. This spicy, thick, and hearty dish features minced eggplant cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It’s an understated yet deeply flavorful dish that keeps diners coming back for more.
Understanding Our Restaurant Ratings
Learn more about our rating system
| Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| NONE | Not Rated |
| 1-5 | Below Average |
| 6s | Average |
| 7s | Good |
| 8s | Truly Excellent, Must-Try |
| 9s | Exceptional |
