Byline: Jenna Jeon, Northwestern University Work Study Student

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we’re spotlighting Ramakant Kharel, the owner of Mt. Everest Restaurant in downtown Evanston.

Kharel’s journey began in New Delhi, India, where he was born and lived until completing his education. Afterward, he and his parents returned to their native Nepal, a country rich in heritage and known as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama—the Lord Buddha—in the sacred city of Lumbini. Looking for new opportunities and a brighter future, Kharel set his sights on the United States with the support of relatives already living in the Chicago area.

In 1990, Kharel arrived in Chicago and began working a series of part-time jobs in both Indian and American restaurants. Starting out as a dishwasher, busboy, and waiter, he had a vision of opening his own restaurant one day. With a background in hotel management from his studies, Kharel quickly noticed something missing in the city’s Indian dining scene: high-quality customer service. In talking with customers, Kharel also discovered that many diners were traveling from Evanston to Devon Avenue (a street in Chicago, particularly known for its diverse South Asian, and especially Indian, presence) for authentic Indian cuisine. That insight sparked an idea.

After nearly a decade of working behind the scenes in restaurants and honing his vision for excellent service, the right opportunity finally came. In 1999, Kharel opened Mt. Everest Restaurant at 618 Church Street in Evanston. Kharel poured his heart into creating a warm, welcoming space that felt like home. Combining traditional Indian cuisine with flavors and influences from his Nepalese roots, Mt. Everest quickly became a local favorite. After five years of steady growth, he was able to expand into a larger space just down the block at 630 Church Street, where the restaurant continues to serve the community today.

Kharel focused on crafting a menu that would not only highlight traditional flavors but also create a dining experience that catered to the community's desires. Throughout his 25-year journey, he has not only built a successful restaurant but also established himself as a pioneer for Nepalese business owners in the Greater Chicago area as well as the Midwest, inspiring others along the way.

Like many small business owners, Kharel faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. With in-person dining and catering drastically reduced, the restaurant had to rely heavily on carry-out and delivery. Unfortunately, third-party delivery platforms took steep commissions, squeezing already thin profit margins while food costs continued to climb.

His determination to keep the restaurant afloat highlights not only his commitment to his craft but also his deep-rooted connection to the Evanston community that had supported him for so many years. “Great people are coming through the door, and we welcome even more people to join us in person,” says Kharel. 

To thank the Evanston community for its support and encourage more people to dine local, Mt. Everest is offering a 15% discount on dine-in and direct takeout orders (when you call the restaurant directly) to anyone who mentions this feature in the City’s newsletter or social media post. As always, Northwestern students and families can also enjoy a 15% discount.

If you haven’t visited Mt. Everest lately, now’s the perfect time to enjoy a delicious meal and support a beloved local business rooted in culture, community, and perseverance. Check out their social media pages for a taste of what to expect: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok.