Nepal’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, offering a rich blend of flavors, spices, and traditional cooking techniques. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a returning traveler, indulging in authentic Nepali cuisine is an essential part of your Kathmandu experience. From comforting lentil-based meals to bold, spiced delicacies, here are some of the must-try Nepali dishes that will take your taste buds on a journey.

1. Dal Bhat (The Ultimate Nepali Meal)

No dish represents Nepal better than Dal Bhat—a staple meal enjoyed across the country. This nutritious and fulfilling platter consists of steamed rice (bhat), lentil soup (dal), and an array of side dishes such as spiced vegetables, pickles, and curried meats. The combination of flavors makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal, perfect for fueling your adventures in Kathmandu.

📍 Where to try it: Most Nepali restaurants, local eateries, and even at Hotel Shanker’s fine dining experience.

2. Momos (Nepali Dumplings)

A favorite among locals and visitors alike, momos are delicious dumplings filled with seasoned minced meat or vegetables, wrapped in soft dough and either steamed, fried, or served in a spiced soup (Jhol Momo). Served with spicy tomato chutney, they make for an irresistible snack or meal.

📍 Where to try it: Specialty momo restaurants, street food stalls, and high-end eateries.

3. Newari Khaja Set (A Traditional Newari Feast)

The Newari community, indigenous to Kathmandu Valley, has a unique and flavorful cuisine. A Newari Khaja Set includes a mix of beaten rice (chiura), marinated buffalo meat (chhoila), spiced potatoes, black soybeans (bhatmas), pickles, and fried eggs. It’s the perfect way to experience the bold and spicy side of Nepali food.

📍 Where to try it: Traditional Newari restaurants in Kathmandu, especially in Patan and Bhaktapur.

4. Sel Roti (Sweet Rice Bread)

A popular Nepali delicacy, Sel Roti is a deep-fried, ring-shaped rice bread with a slightly sweet taste and crispy texture. It is often enjoyed during festivals, but you can also find it at local tea shops, paired with a cup of Nepali chiya (milk tea).

📍 Where to try it: Local sweet shops, bakeries, and traditional Nepali restaurants.

5. Gundruk (Fermented Leafy Greens)

For a taste of Nepal’s preserved flavors, Gundruk is a must-try. This fermented leafy green vegetable is often cooked in a curry or served as a side dish, offering a unique tangy and earthy flavor. Rich in probiotics, it is also considered a healthy addition to the Nepali diet.

📍 Where to try it: Traditional restaurants serving authentic Nepali meals.

6. Yomari (A Sweet Newari Treat)

Yomari is a steamed dumpling made from rice flour, filled with molasses and sesame seeds. A specialty of the Newari community, this dessert is particularly enjoyed during the Yomari Punhi festival, but it is available year-round at select eateries.

📍 Where to try it: Newari restaurants and sweet shops in Patan and Bhaktapur.

7. Juju Dhau (The King of Yogurt)

A visit to Kathmandu is incomplete without trying Juju Dhau, a thick, creamy, and sweet yogurt originating from Bhaktapur. Made using traditional methods, it has a rich texture and subtle sweetness that makes it a perfect dessert or refreshing treat.

📍 Where to try it: Authentic Juju Dhau shops in Bhaktapur and Kathmandu.

8. Thakali Set (A Refined Nepali Meal)

Similar to Dal Bhat, the Thakali Set is a more refined and flavorful version, originating from the Thakali community in the Mustang region. It features steamed rice, lentils, sautéed greens, pickles, fried buckwheat bread, and slow-cooked mutton or chicken curry. The balanced use of spices and ghee makes this a rich and comforting meal.

📍 Where to try it: Specialty Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu.

9. Sukuti (Dried & Spiced Meat)

For those who enjoy bold flavors, Sukuti is a traditional Nepali jerky made from sun-dried buffalo or goat meat, marinated with spices and served as a snack or stir-fried with onions and chilies. It pairs perfectly with a local drink like Aila (Newari liquor).

📍 Where to try it: Newari restaurants and local food joints.

10. Chatamari (The Nepali Pizza)

Often called “Nepali pizza”, Chatamari is a thin rice flour pancake topped with eggs, minced meat, vegetables, and spices. It’s light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making it a great alternative to regular bread-based dishes.

📍 Where to try it: Newari eateries in Patan and Bhaktapur.

Experience Authentic Nepali Cuisine at Hotel Shanker

For those looking to experience authentic Nepali flavors in a luxurious setting, Hotel Shanker offers a curated selection of traditional Nepali dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. Whether you’re craving a hearty Dal Bhat, a plate of momos, or a Thakali set meal, our chefs ensure a culinary experience that is both authentic and refined.

📍 Join us for a taste of Nepal’s rich culinary heritage in a setting that blends tradition with elegance.

POPULAR ITINERARIES

Featured