Its official name is the Snowman Dessert Cafe, but most know it simply as "The Snowman". Addresses are pointless in Kathmandu, so either ask an English-speaking local, any traveller who looks like they're savvy, or follow these directions:
Head about halfway down Freak Street from Basantapur Square and there's a wide lane that curves off to the left - it's down here on your right.
If you're looking for somewhere to crash and veg out after a long day (or night), this is one of the few places of its type in the Freak Street district - and one of the few places that's open late.
"Dessert" is the key word, and you won't be disappointed. This atmospheric cafe serves all types of snacks but their cakes and fresh-brewed coffee are renowned. There's a warm and welcoming feel, with soft lighting, hip music and comfortable, cozy seating - the type that makes you feel like you've dropped by a friend's house. There's a comprehensive menu of sweet-tooth delicacies baked fresh on the premises and a good range of hot and cold drinks.
At night the place feels like a time warp to the Summer of Love, complete with music and incense. You'll find more than a few hippies here, but most of them are toting Nikons these days. And they share the tables with a range of travellers; families, young, old, even business people craving a sugar and caffeine fix.
We relaxed with pots of strong coffee and slabs of deliciously authentic chocolate cake with plenty of time to scan the complimentary newspapers and other publications scattered around.
The bill was 120Rp, and needless to say we returned the next night for more.
The Snowman is open all day, every day, until very late.