By Ty Walker
The Mountain Times
There’s a new place in town that’s adding some spice to the Mount Hood restaurant scene. Naan N Curry has transformed a former pub into a paradise of authentic Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Locals and travelers alike come back for more at Naan N Curry, conveniently located off U.S. Highway 26 en route to Mount Hood.
The father and son restaurateurs responsible for this enterprise came from Pakistan, where the father worked as a mechanic before becoming a chef. Fazal Hussain is now head chef of the restaurant, while his son, Adnan Ali, is manager of operations. Hussain handles the cooking and all things related to the kitchen, while Ali manages the staff and finances.
Business has been brisk since they opened Naan N Curry in Welches in December last year. It is their second restaurant endeavor. For the past five years, they have owned and operated their first restaurant, Sultan The Flaming Tandoor, in Sherwood, where they live. They plan to open a third restaurant in Portland as they watch their business grow.
“We want to invite the local people to come try our best food,” Ali said. “They won’t be disappointed.”
His father’s specialties include tandoori barbecue chicken and grilled chicken kebabs. Another popular dish, one of Ali’s favorites, is butter chicken. Of course, Naan N Curry offers extensive vegetarian fare on the menu as well.
“Naan” is a kind of round flat leavened bread commonly eaten with “curry,” a spicy sauce and staple of Indian cuisine.
As if keeping tabs on the family restaurants isn’t enough for his plate, Ali has worked as a software engineer at Nike for three years. It was at his father’s urging that they expand the business to Mount Hood. In all, they have about 15 employees, five of whom work in Welches.
Naan N Curry has a relaxed, casual atmosphere. The spacious layout with large-backed booths can seat up to 60 people comfortably. It is located at 24371 E Welches Road, in the space formerly occupied by Pub 26. Experience the exquisite flavors at Naan N Curry and treat yourself to a culinary journey like no other, the restaurant website beckons.
Hours of operation are 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week.
For more information, visit www.naanncurrymthood.com.