Best Places to Eat in Kathmandu

Best Foods to Try in Kathmandu (Nepal)

Here are some must-eat Nepalese dishes and snacks in Kathmandu with descriptions, dietary options, ingredients and price ranges:

• Thakali Khana Set

  A rich, flavourful Nepalese dish of basmati rice, lentil soup, fried potatoes, and spinach, served with spicy condiments. Enjoy with Dhido and ghee for added authenticity.

  • Type: Both Non-vegetarian and Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 375 - 438

• Momo

  A Nepalese favourite, these steamed dumplings are filled with minced vegetables or meat and served with a tangy tomato chutney. Do not miss varieties like Sadheko, Tandoori, and Chilly Momo.

  • Type: Both Non-vegetarian and Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 50 - 125

• Chatamari

  Known as Nepalese Pizza, this crispy rice-flour base is topped with egg, minced meat, and fresh vegetables, seasoned with local spices. It is a must-try Newari snack in Kathmandu.

  • Type: Both Non-vegetarian and Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 62 - 93 (depends on toppings)

• Sel Roti

  A ring-shaped, deep-fried rice flour doughnut with a crispy texture and mild sweetness enjoyed as a snack or breakfast. It is popular during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

  • Type: Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 6 - 13 (per piece)

• Sekuwa

  A traditional Nepalese BBQ, Sekuwa features wood-fired roasted meat seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, typically served with baji (beaten rice) and achar (pickle).

  • Type: Non-vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 63 (per plate)

• Aloo Chop (Potato Fritters)

  Aloo Chop is a popular street snack that combines spiced mashed potatoes, coriander, and chickpeas, deep-fried to golden perfection in gram flour batter and served with chutney or ketchup.

  • Type: Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 25 (per plate)

• Samosa

  A beloved snack, samosas feature a crunchy, deep-fried flour shell filled with spiced mashed potatoes, peas, and onion. It is best savoured with sweet tomato chutney or a hot cup of tea.

  • Type: Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 19 (per piece)

• Panipuri

  A famous street treat, panipuri, consists of crispy dough balls filled with spiced potatoes, onions, and chickpeas, then drenched in tangy mint water for flavour. Dahi puri offers a twist with yoghurt, coriander, and cumin.

  • Type: Vegetarian
  • Approx. Price*: INR 31 - 63 (per plate)

*Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and subject to change at the time of travel.

Nepal Food Guide: Best Restaurants and Street Food Stalls in Kathmandu

Several places to eat in Kathmandu cater to all palates, from traditional Newari delights to international cuisine. Visitors can explore popular dining spots that showcase the local flavours while enjoying the unique atmosphere of Kathmandu. Here is a list of some of the best restaurants to end your search for “best restaurants near me”, “places to eat around me”, and “healthy food near me” in Kathmandu.

• Café Mitra

  Café Mitra offers beautifully handcrafted fresh food in a charming setting. While it is a hidden gem, pre-booking is highly recommended to secure a table. Vegetarian options are available.

  • Location: Thamel Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening hours: 7 AM - 10:30 PM

• Fire and Ice

  Celebrated for the best pizza in town, Fire and Ice has served Italian dishes for nearly 20 years, focusing on exceptional service and value. Enjoy pizza, pasta, salads, desserts, and even Italian breakfasts.

  • Location: Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening hours: 9 AM - 10 PM

• The Chimney

  A legacy of Boris Lissanevitch, The Chimney features original recipes like borsch and chicken à la Kyiv alongside baked Alaska and winter fondue. Enjoy a unique dining experience steeped in history and tradition.

  • Location: Hotel Yak & Yeti, Durbar Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening hours: 12 PM - 10:30 PM

• Chez Caroline

  Praised as the best French restaurant in Kathmandu, Chez Caroline offers brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy generous portions, including a side salad and breadbasket with each main course, alongside delightful French cuisine.

  • Location: Baber Mahal Revisited Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Opening hours: 8 AM - 9 PM

• Garden Kitchen

  A delightful spot serving traditional Tibetan cuisine, Garden Kitchen is frequently visited by monks and locals. The upstairs seating area offers comfort and views of unique handicrafts for sale.

  • Location: Boudha Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening hours: 10 AM - 8 PM

Vegetarian Restaurants in Kathmandu

Indian travellers can feel at home because of the similarity between Nepalese and Indian cuisine. Here are some top vegetarian restaurants in Kathmandu if you are looking for “pure veg restaurants near me” or “healthy food near me” in Kathmandu.

• OR2K

  OR2K is renowned for its delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. The menu offers must-try foods, including Shakshouka, Hummus, and a fantastic Falafel plate, all served in a welcoming, artistic environment.

  • Location: Mandala Street, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 9 AM - 11 PM

• Utpala Cafe

  Near Boudhanath Stupa, Utpala Cafe offers a delightful vegetarian menu focused on organic ingredients. Its serene garden setting is perfect for enjoying affordable buffets and local handicrafts away from the city's bustle.

  • Location: Utpala Way, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM - 9 PM

• French Bakery

  A must-visit for sandwiches and burgers, the French Bakery is renowned for its Croque Monsieur and Aussie-style burger. With affordable prices and a welcoming atmosphere, it is a delightful spot for casual dining.

  • Location: Paknajol Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM - 9 PM

• Organic Smoothie Bowl and Cafe

  Organic Smoothie Bowl and Cafe serve organic smoothie bowls and is a great answer to your “healthy foods near me” queries. These include Immune Booster Juice and Avocado Salad. It is a go-to spot for locals and tourists seeking nutritious vegetarian meals.

  • Location: Kumari Mai Marg 02, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM - 8 PM

• Gangaur Fine Dining

  A great spot for vegetarians, Gangaur Fine Dining offers authentic “Indian food near me” options focusing on sweet dishes. The Maharaja Thali is a highlight featuring a variety of delicious vegetarian options.

  • Location: Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM - 10 PM

Best Vegan Cafes/Restaurants in Kathmandu

Kathmandu offers ample options for travellers looking for “vegan food near me” options on their search bar. Here are essential vegan spots with complete addresses and opening hours for a delightful plant-based dining experience for those searching for “healthy food near me” in Kathmandu.

• Places Restaurant and Bar

  Places Restaurant and Bar is a vegan restaurant offering a diverse breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. Enjoy live performances, online ordering, and a kid-friendly atmosphere while indulging in high-quality vegan dishes.

  • Location: Ghumti Marga, Saat Kathmandu
  • Opening Hours: 8 AM - 11 PM

• Always Happy Food Co

  Founded in 2021 in Thamel, Always Happy Food Co is a vegan eatery offering a warm ambience and attentive service. Enjoy a variety of plant-based dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Their plant-based ice cream is a popular, must-try treat.

  • Location: Thamel Paknajol, Near Seven Corners, Thamel, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 9 AM - 9:30 PM

• Hamro Vegan

  Located in Kumaripati, Patan, Hamro Vegan showcases the rise of veganism in Nepal. The diverse menu features flavorful curries, lentil soups, dumplings, and plant-based dishes like soy ice cream and shiitake mushroom sausages, promoting sustainable dining.

  • Location: Jwagal Road, Lalitpur 44600, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 9 AM - 9 PM

• Bodhi Garden Restaurant

  Bodhi Garden restaurant offers a variety of delicious vegan-vegetarian dishes without onions or garlic. Renowned for its Malaysian-style Chinese cuisine, the menu features tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables in a serene garden setting, perfect for family dining.

  • Location: Chakrapath, Kathmandu
  • Opening Hours: 10:30 AM - 8 PM

• Nourish By Avata

  Nourish By Avata provides a delightful dining experience for vegans and health-conscious diners. The menu features vibrant salads, grain bowls, and inventive vegan twists on classic Nepalese dishes, focusing on fresh produce and plant-based proteins.

  • Location: Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Opening Hours: 7 AM - 9 PM

FAQs

• Q1. What is the national drink of Nepal?

  Ans. Chia (chai) is often considered the national drink of Nepal, enjoyed mainly in the morning.

• Q2. Is Nepalese food very spicy?

  Ans. Nepalese food, heavily influenced by Indian cuisine, is quite spicy because of ingredients like raw chilli, garlic, and ginger.

• Q3. Can I find an Indian restaurant near me in Kathmandu?

  Ans. Yes, there are plenty of Indian restaurants in Kathmandu where you can enjoy Indian food away from home. Indian food is also available in most restaurants in Kathmandu.

• Q4. Where can I find healthy and vegetarian-friendly places to eat around Kathmandu?

  Ans. For health-conscious dining, Forest + Plate offers vegan-friendly dishes made from organic, locally sourced ingredients. Avocado Cafe is known for its fresh salads and light bites.

• Q5. Which restaurants in Kathmandu serve Chinese food?

  Ans. Yangling Restaurant is highly recommended for authentic Tibetan dishes, while White Dzambhala has an excellent selection of Chinese dishes, known primarily for its spicy offerings. You can also search online for “Chinese food near me” to explore all the available options.

• Q6. What are the budget-friendly places to eat in Nepal?

  Ans. Plenty of budget options are available for eating in Kathmandu, like Yala Cafe, Spize, and Maulik Kitchen. These places offer good Nepalese food without burning a hole in your pocket.