The Helmand

Outfitted with traditional Afghan clothing and décor, the interior of this restaurant indicates that you're in for a fascinating cultural encounter, and the spicy cuisine exceeds such expectations. The menu is filled with flavorful, authentic concoctions such as mantwo, a homemade pastry shell filled with onions and beef and topped with carrots, yellow split peas and beef sauce. Notable sides include chopped eggplant with tomato and onion, and pan-fried baked baby pumpkin. Daily vegetarian specials are offered throughout the week.