After a nine-to-five shift there is nothing more sating than picking up a crusty loaf, a roast and a couple of cold ones for an affordable and effortless dinner. Luckily, La Rotisserie in Jawalakhel features a slow-cook horizontal spit oven that celebrates the 550-year French tradition of revolving hens, and they're not at all bad.

A whole chicken from the four-year establishment will fetch you Rs 495, while a half is half at Rs 250 and a leg, Rs 125. The succulent bird comes with a standard red hot sauce but no mayo or ketchup. If you opt for a whole, ensure freshness and insist your choice of roast straight from the spit rod.

Sides are sadly limited to french fries (Rs 75). A spicy cajan rice or even a baguette would be ideal.

But if chicken is not your thing, go fish. The trout (Rs 395) comes whole, seasoned and grilled. But beware, the fish at the time of review was more bony than usual and irritating to pick out. Take a knife and debone before serving.

Tea sandwiches are also available at the counter for Rs 75 including ham and cheese, tuna and grilled chicken on white bread with crusts off. Crab sandwiches (Rs 110) were out of stock but promise a rare treat in the valley. The grilled duck was also done for the day but is not cheap (Rs 995).

Imported and domestic beer for Rs 220 can be bought elsewhere. Ask for extra sauce and napkins, if you are on the run.

Upstairs seating extends the shop's kitsch decor including a framed dueling pistol, chalet furniture and rustic signage with hunky-dory axioms. But the lighting is dismal, and the ambience, uninviting. La Rotisserie is best for takeout.

Skip the Bakery Cafe, just off the circle in Jawalakhel, across from the Australian Red Dingo,