If you have special dietary requirements or allergies we recommend preparing “cheat cards” in the local language that allow you to communicate your dietary requirements with locals. As many countries in this part of Asia, locals often do not understand the concept of allergies and dietary restrictions.
Inspired by Nepal’s India, the country’s national dish is Dal Bhat and usually consists of rice, steamed vegetables and lentil soup. Dal Bhat is served in different ways and sometimes you’ll find a vegetable curry instead of steamed vegetables, a roti, fresh and pickled vegetables on the side as an addition. You won’t struggle to get a taste of this dish, Dal Bhat is on nearly every restaurant menu and eaten at breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Nepal has a range of unique drinks you can be adventurous with when you visit. Similar to food in Nepal, some of the influences come from Nepal’s neighbours Tibet, India and China. From a freshly brewed chai tea made with milk and spices to the warming Tibetan butter tea (yes, this isn’t a typo, it’s butter tea), there are lots of exotic drinks you can try here.
Nepal also has a number of local beers including Everest and Kathmandu. For anyone wanting to try a traditional alcoholic drink, the Tibetan drink Tongba should not be missed. Although often referred to as a beer, the drink is made from fermented whole grain millet. Alcohol is poured into a glass, hot water is added and the drink is then sipped through bamboo straws which serve to filter the drink. Sounds strange but intriguing? Go and look for the traditional Tongba on your visit to Nepal.
Thakali Bhanchha Ghar or any Thakali restaurant. These are local restaurants which serve authentic Nepali cuisine at an affordable price. You can find many in the Thamel area in Kathmandu and throughout Nepal. (Thakali are people from the Mustang area in the north-western part of the Annapurna region. )
Momos are always a satisfying meal and won’t break the bank. You won’t struggle to find Momo places in the Thamel area in Kathmandu.
Places Restaurant & Bar
(Saat Ghumti Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal)
There is plenty of vegetarian food in Nepal but if you’ve just arrived, are tired and want to save yourself the hassle, try Places Restaurant & Bar, they only serve vegetarian and vegan food.
Yala Cafe
(Kwabahal, Thamel Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal)
If you want to try authentic Nepali food then make sure you stop by at Yala Restaurant. The ingredients the restaurant uses are sourced from the Kathmandu Valley!
New Orleans Restaurant & Bar
(Chaksibari Marg 338/19, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal)
If you’ve had enough of Momos and Dal Bhat then head to this restaurant for a selection of continental dishes.
Ying Yang
(J.P. Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal)
Ying Yang offers a variety of international and Asian food.
Roadhouse Cafes
Thamel, Chaksibari, Kathmandu 44600
Boudha Stupa, Kathmandu 44600
Thirbam Sadak, Kathmandu 44600
There are currently three Roadhouse Cafes in Kathmandu. The cafe serves European food and pizza.
Third Eye Restaurant
(J.P. Road, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal)
You’ll find nice ambience here and a variety of Indian and Western dishes to choose from.
We already covered the national dish Dal Bhat but there’s a lot more for your tastebuds to discover in Nepal. Momos – dumplings that are originally from Nepal’s neighbour Tibet – are among the nation’s favourites. They are served steamed or fried and you can usually choose from a small range of vegetable or meat fillings. If you want to try it the traditional way opt for the buffalo filling!
The mere picture of Sel Roti makes you want to be in Nepal but just wait until you smell them. Sel Roti are deep-fried treats that are often referred to as “Nepal’s take on donuts” online, although they are made from rice flour and – unlike sugary donuts – only have a hint of sweetness. Sel Roti are a popular street food and locals eat these treats with yogurt and vegetables.
If you’ve been to India or are familiar with the country’s cuisine you’ll probably know that samosas are originally from India. However, the good news is that you can get the delicious deep-fried triangles fresh in Nepal. Samosas have a variety of different fillings but the most common ones are vegetables and potatoes. Ingredients all samosa fillings have in common are spices, and although samosas are packed with rich flavours, we are talking about hot spices that are not for the faint of heart.
If you’re a vegetarian in Nepal, you’re going to love Pulao. The main component of this dish is fried rice which is then spiced up with turmeric and cumin and is simple but delicious. The most popular Pulao is made with vegetables and often served with yogurt.
Thukpa is a mild, stew-like noodle soup that draws its inspiration from cold regions in China and Tibet and as you may have guessed already, it’s a filling and warming meal. You’ll find many different versions of this meal on menus, from veggie options to meats like chicken, lamb or goat, you can take your pick. As it’s a classic comfort food for colder days, the dish is especially popular in the mountainous regions of Nepal.
Chatamari is often described as a “Nepali pizza” and though it looks similar, just like the “Nepali donut” Sel Roti, it is actually quite different from the Italian pizza we know and love. Chatamari are made from a rice flour-based dough which is cooked in the same shape but much thinner than pizza, the thickness can be compared to crepe. Toppings usually include minced meat, coriander, eggs and spices.
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