Tipsy Yeti: Yummy Nepalese-Italian-American fare in Berkeley

Tipsy Yeti

Tipsy Yeti, located along San Pablo in Berkeley, is the kind of place I could recommend to anyone. Still, I especially recommend it to those who are seeking something interestingly tasty and relaxingly comfortable. It’s a semi-formal restaurant appropriate for almost all types of groups, with a menu that’s really fun to explore.  The prices aren’t bad, and they even have a happy hour from 4 to 6 pm.

With exposed brick and warm-colored wooden trim, Tipsy Yeti has that old-fashioned tavern kind of feel. You can instantly recognize it as the kind of place you can kick back and socialize—whether you’re bringing families with children or are there to grab a drink with your 21+ friend group. There’s a good amount of space between the tables, and it’s orderly and not too loud, meaning that it can simultaneously be a kid-friendly restaurant and a classy bar. The service is respectful, and the slow pace is actually welcome because it prolongs the time for pleasant conversation and relaxation.  

Tipsy Yeti has a long menu and identifies as Nepalese-Italian-American fusion. In other words, the menu is diverse enough to satisfy most picky eaters who don't want to be pushed out of their comfort zone. They have solid burgers, pizzas, pastas, and steaks that people really like and say good things about. (If that’s more your thing, there’s no shame in that; these items are actually very well-executed and popular.) And yet, in my opinion, the best and most interesting things on the menu are under the Nepalese section.  For example, the momo come in many varieties and are completely delightful. You can pick your meat, your cooking method, and your sauce. They can also whip up a fascinating curry that really hits the spot, and the KTM Choila will make you want more. Being a popular mainstream Nepalese fusion restaurant, they like to incorporate some Nepalese spices without making it too uncomfortable for their fan base here in California, even on the “spicy” dishes. The portions are modest, not too big and not too small.

But Tipsy Yeti is not a place you come to grab a quick bite. It’s more of a place you come to linger, laugh with your friends and family, and savor every bite. That means the kitchen is equipped with a long drink and dessert menu. They have, among other great options, a decadent chocolate lava cake and a tasty carrot mari, which is not too sweet and resembles a carrot cake submerged in melted vanilla ice cream. 

Tipsy Yeti asks that you inform the staff of any allergies or sensitivities. In our case, they were able to accommodate a gluten sensitivity, offering many good, gluten free options. They were very honest and warned us of cross-contamination. 

Overall, it’s a great place to come for succulent Nepalese food—or, if you prefer, popular Italian-American fare. The food is made with care, but it’s only half the story. The rest of the story is about the good times and conversations that can be had in a large, somewhat formal but completely relaxed environment like this one. I would consider the prices to be moderate but also worth every cent. I’m already thinking of occasions to come back!