Nepali Food Guide: 20 Traditional Foods in Nepal
Last Updated on December 13, 2024
From the hearty dal-bhat trio to savory momos, Nepali food is a beautiful blend of spices and savory goodness. Here’s the ultimate Nepali food guide, including the best foods to try and what food tours to join.
Nepal is a small landlocked country in South Asia that has lately been a huge revelation for many visiting the continent. And for good reason. Tucked snugly between China and India, Nepal is a medley of stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, and a rich culinary heritage.
But while the snow-capped mountains are undeniably beautiful, it is the local cuisine that’s more likely to warm your heart. Often referred to as the cuisine of the Himalayas, Nepali cuisine is a charming fusion of Indian and Tibetan culinary traditions. The only difference here is that Nepali food is much spicier than the local cuisines in all those two regions.
Its distinct flavors shine most brightly in Newari and Thakali cuisines, which embody the authentic taste of Nepal. From the hearty dal bhat that fuels trekkers to the intricate delicacies of Newari feasts, Nepali food is a celebration of spices, textures, and community. In this guide, we shall look at the must-try dishes in Nepal and the best culinary adventures to immerse you in the flavors of this incredible country.
Table of Contents
- Nepal Food Culture
- Iconic Nepali Dishes You Must Try
Nepal Food Culture
Nepali cuisine is a blend of Indian and Tibetan culinary traditions that reflects the region’s diverse geography and rich culture. It’s mostly made up of spiced stews and thick, flavorful curries, often eaten with rice and vegetables.
The Nepalese commonly use ingredients like garlic, cumin, ginger, coriander, turmeric, nutmeg, bay leaves, black pepper, onions, chillies, cilantro, and scallions when preparing meals. They also use Himalayan spices like Timur (Szechwan pepper) and Jimbu (a rare herb) to give their dishes a unique aroma and a kick. Beverages like lassi (yogurt) or liquor often accompany these meals, concluding with dessert and tea.
Dal bhat (lentil stew) is the most popular Nepali dish and commonly eaten throughout the country. The Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley is a special culinary category in its own right. Their delicacies are very spicy and meaty. Popular Newari dishes include Yomari (a sweet dumpling filled with molasses), Chatamari (often called Nepali pizza), and Choila (spicy grilled meat).
Iconic Nepali Dishes You Must Try
Nepali Snacks and Appetizers
Sel Roti
Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali sweet snack that resembles a donut. Made from rice flour and deep-fried, it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often prepared during festivals like Dashain and Tihar, Sel Roti pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea and is beloved for its slightly sweet flavor and unique texture.
The delicacy is also often paired with Aalu Achaar during these festivals. In most high-end restaurants, Sel Roti is often served as a compliment of tea and dal bhat as breakfast.
Momos
Momos are Nepal’s answer to dumplings. These steamed or fried treats are filled with minced meat or vegetables, seasoned with ginger, garlic, and spices, and served with a spicy dipping sauce. Momos are ubiquitous throughout Nepal—from street vendors to restaurants—and a must-try for any visitor. Momos come with different stuffings like chicken, paneer, khuwa(evaporated milk solids), buffalo meat, among others.
Samosas
Samosas are iconic stuffed pastries beloved across the Asian continent. The samosa’s journey began in the Middle East before making its way to Central Asia, India, and eventually Nepal. While traditional samosas often feature minced meat, Nepal put a spin on the snack by introducing a variety of vegetarian fillings like spiced potatoes, green peas, or chickpeas.
Pakoras
Another popular fried snack in Nepal is pakoras. These crispy, spiced vegetable beignets are made by coating ingredients—usually vegetables—in a flavorful, spiced batter and then deep frying them until golden and crunchy.
Common varieties include ingredients like onion, masoor dal (lentil), suji (semolina), chicken, arbi root and leaves, eggplant, potato, chili pepper, spinach, paneer, cauliflower, mint, plantain, or baby corn. In Nepal, you’ll find pakoras being sold on the bustling streets, and they are at their absolute best when freshly fried right in front of you.
Sukkha roti (Chapati)
Sukka Roti is a traditional flatbread commonly eaten in Nepal and is a beloved breakfast staple. Made from wheat flour dough, it is prepared by mixing wheat flour with water and kneading until it reaches the perfect consistency. Once the dough is ready, it is shaped into a round form and heated on a pan until golden and crispy.
Sukka Roti is often served with vegetable curry, Daal, chutney, or yogurt. This traditional dish can also easily be customized with the addition of ghee or butter, further enhancing its flavor and richness.
Nepali Rice Dishes
Dal Bhat
Dal Bhat is the national dish of Nepal. It consists of steamed rice (bhat) served with lentil soup (dal), accompanied by vegetable curries, pickles, and sometimes meat. This hearty and nutritious meal is eaten by many Nepalese twice a day and is a favorite among Himalayan trekkers.
The popular saying “Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour” is a testament to the sustenance it provides. The dish is filled with carbs and proteins, macronutrients known to give an energy boost which is invaluable when doing strenuous activities like climbing.
Kheer
Kheer is a beloved sweet rice pudding that is a staple dessert in Nepal. This creamy pudding is traditionally made by boiling milk, sugar or jaggery, and rice. To elevate its rich flavors, the Nepalese often infuse kheer with dried fruits, nuts, cardamom, and saffron. While rice is the classic base, variations may include cracked wheat, vermicelli (sevai), sago, or tapioca (sabudana).
Kheer holds spiritual significance to the Nepalese, as it is commonly used as an offering to the gods. Sharing kheer is another important tradition during the celebration of Buddha’s birthday on Buddha Jayanti. There is even a special day known as Kheer Khane Din (Kheer Eating Day) when families gather to enjoy this sweet treat together.
Anda Chiura
Anda Chiura is another popular and widely accessible dish throughout Nepal, beloved for its unique flavors and satisfying texture. This delicious dish is made from beaten rice (Chiura), mixed with veggies, onions, eggs, and an array of spices. The ingredients are fried together to create a crispy texture in the Chiura while giving the vegetables a soft, jelly-like consistency.
Anda Chiura is often served with a side of chutney or vegetable curry. To complete the meal, it pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of milk tea, making it a comforting and well-balanced way to start the day.
Nepal Soup Dishes
Thukpa
Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that originated in the Himalayan region and is especially popular in colder areas of Nepal. It is made with hakka noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat, all cooked in a hot, flavorful broth. Thukpa is the perfect meal for a chilly day, offering warmth and nourishment.
It is made with warming spices such as turmeric, cumin, and timur pepper. The popular dish is often served with buff (buffalo meat) or pork. There are also vegan variations of this dish across most restaurants.
Tsampa
If you’re trekking in the Himalayas near the border of China, chances are high that you’ll encounter traditional dishes like tsampa. Tsampa is a Tibetan hearty soupy dish made from roasted barley flour and is packed with energy—an ideal food for those navigating high-altitude trails.
Its unique versatility also makes it a beloved dish in the region. Tsampa can also be enjoyed as dough balls, a topping, or even mixed into butter tea for a rich, warming drink.
Gundruk ko jhol
Gundruk ko jhol is a traditional fermented leafy green vegetable soup dish that is rich in probiotics. The vegetables are sun-dried and fermented, giving Gundruk its characteristic tangy flavor. The Nepalese make this delicacy from the leaves of cauliflowers, radishes, and mustard greens.
It is commonly used as a side dish or appetizer by most restaurants. Gundruk is also often mixed with tomatoes, onions, and chili to make a spicy salad called “Gundruk ko Achar.”
Nepal Breakfast Dishes
Aalu Chana
Aalu Chana is a popular and hearty breakfast option in Nepal, loved for its perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. This dish features boiled potatoes cut into pieces, fried with soaked chickpeas (grains), a mix of vegetables, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. Aalu Chana is a common breakfast option for trekkers because it offers a good amount of carbohydrates and protein to keep you energized and full for hours.
It can also be served with boiled eggs, adding even more nutritional richness to the dish. Often paired with a cup of milk, lemon, or black tea, Aalu Chana is a comfort food you’ll find in almost every local restaurant. It’s one of my personal favorites because it pairs wonderfully with roti or even chuira (beaten rice).
Tibetan Bread (Gurung Bread)
This is another of my favorite breakfast options. I first stumbled upon Tibetan bread at a small local restaurant while trekking through Sherpa country and it has become my go-to option while in Naples. It’s a delicious fried bread made from the local tsampa flour.
Its flavor is surprisingly tasty, simple yet satisfying, especially if you add just a little bit of butter or melted cheese. Tibetan bread is a staple on the breakfast menu in most trekking lodges along the Gokyo Lakes trek and the Everest Base Camp trek. In the Annapurna region, it is simply called Gurung bread.
Sha phaley
Also known as shakpa or shapta, sha phaley is a popular dish for trekkers exploring the Mt. Everest region of eastern Nepal. This flavorful delicacy features thinly sliced red meat (often beef) stir-fried with aromatic spices like chili and Sichuan pepper. It is traditionally served with steamed rice or Tibetan bread and accompanied by chili sauce.
Newari Food in Nepal
Yomari
Yomari is a stunning Newari delicacy that will have you wanting more. It’s a steamed dumpling that uniquely combines simplicity and sweetness. With its rice flour exterior, it looks quite similar to a traditional dumpling but has a taste that is entirely unexpected—sweet, not savory!
Yomari is typically filled with either chaku (jaggery taffy) and sesame seeds or khuwa (evaporated milk solids) and shredded coconut. Known as a festive sweet, Yomari is commonly enjoyed during Yomari Punhi, a rice harvest festival celebrated on the full moon day in December.
It’s also savored on other special occasions like birthdays and baby showers. Perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, the Yomari offers a unique glimpse into Nepalese cuisine and tradition.
Chatamari
Chatamari is a beloved traditional dish of the Newari people. It is so popular among Nepalese communities that it’s often dubbed the “Newari pizza.” This rice-flour crepe offers endless possibilities for toppings, making it a delightful and versatile treat.
Non-vegetarian variations feature minced buffalo or chicken, onions, coriander leaves, and eggs. Vegan options include a variety of vegetables or even a simple sprinkling of sugar. Chatamari is crunchy, flavorful, and uniquely garnished to suit all palates, much like a pizza but with a distinct Nepali twist.
Samay bhaji
Samay Bhaji is Nepal’s answer to a tasting menu, Newari-style—a culinary masterpiece where variety steals the show. Think of it as the Newari cousin of dal bhat, but instead of rice and lentils, beaten rice and barbecued meat take center stage. The dish is often accompanied by a delightful array of vegetarian condiments.
This dish is found mainly in the Kathmandu Valley hotspots of Bhaktapur, Patan, and Kirtipur. Samay Bhaji offers a chance to sample every part of the animal. Kathmandu restaurants often serve everything from liver (senla mu) and lungs (swanpuka) to tongue (mainh), brains (nhyapu), steamed blood (chohi), and bone marrow (sapumhicha).
Buff Choyla
Buffalo is the most common meat in the Newari community. Buff Choyla, sometimes spelled choila, Chhwela, or Chhoyela, is a fiery and flavorful buffalo dish served widely across the community. This traditional delicacy features spiced, marinated, and grilled buffalo meat that packs a serious spicy punch.
For authentic choyla, head to Bhaktapur or Patan, where Newari restaurants serve up this culinary gem with all the rich traditions and flavors intact. I was hesitant to try it at first but it eventually grew on me and it’s now one of my favorite Newari cuisines.
Kwati
Kwati is a traditional Newari soup made with nine different types of beans. This hearty is primarily enjoyed during Janai Purnima, a major Hindu festival in Nepal that symbolizes renewal and spiritual cleansing.
Due to its long cooking time, Kwati isn’t a staple on every menu. If you spot Kwati on the menu, don’t hesitate—grab your chance to experience this nourishing and festive dish!
Bara
Commonly known as “Wo” in the Newari language, Bara is a delightful Newari snack cherished for its unique flavor and cultural significance. These spiced lentil patties, resembling savory rice-flour pancakes, are made from a paste of lentils mixed with garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt.
It’s often enjoyed with tomato chutney or topped with eggs or minced meat. Bara is believed to bring good luck and is often served at special events like weddings and birthdays.
Where to Eat in Kathmandu
As a melting pot of people from across the country, Kathmandu serves up an array of local dishes that capture the essence of Nepalese cuisine. While not as globally recognized as Indian or Chinese fare, Nepal’s culinary offerings promise to enchant your taste buds from the first bite.
Himalayan Java Coffee
Dubbed, Nepal’s Starbucks, Himalayan Java Coffee on Mandala Street is one of over 25 locations across the country. This cozy spot goes beyond just great coffee. They source coffee beans directly from Nepal’s mountain communities to support local farmers and businesses. The coffee is rich and flavorful, but it’s the bakery items that truly shine—crafted to perfection to deliver top-notch quality. Check out the reviews here.
Maulik Kitchen
Located at Sorhakhutte just outside the bustling Thamel district, Maulik Kitchen is one of the best Nepali restaurants I’ve been to. Its tranquil courtyard, adorned with bright orange walls, leafy trees, and twinkling lights, feels like a serene escape from the city’s chaos. I ordered their Masala Butter Chicken and my husband had Mix Chowmein. We both loved the food and later made two more trips to the restaurant. Check out the reviews here.
Yangling Restaurant
Without a shred of doubt, this Tibetan restaurant was our favorite dining spot in Kathmandu. It was located just a few steps from our hotel which made the whole experience seamless. The unassuming exterior belies the culinary treasure within. The chic restaurant serves up Tibetan classics like their famously delectable momos. I was initially skeptical about trying out their buff momos but I am glad I did. Check out the reviews here.
Where to Eat in Pokhara
Found along the serene Phewa Lake and framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, Pokhara is a haven for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re fueling up before a trek or unwinding after an adventurous hike, you’ll find a variety of cuisines to satisfy your cravings. From traditional Nepali dishes to international fare, the dining spots in Pokhara provide the perfect blend of flavors and relaxation.
Little Windows
Little Windows is the ultimate spot for a healthy and delicious start to your day. Known for its smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and tasty breakfast plates paired with excellent coffee, this café hits all the right notes for morning cravings. The inviting pink-and-white décor, accented by lush greenery, makes it a perfect hipster hangout. Their menu is mostly vegetarian and features many vegan options offering gluten-free delights like sweet and savory crepes. Check out the reviews here.
Perky Beans
Located unassumingly along the bustling Lakeside Road, Perky Beans is the kind of hole-in-the-wall café that surprises and delights. What began as a chance discovery quickly turned into a cherished ritual of honey lemon tea sipping leisurely in the crisp afternoon sun. Their breakfast offerings, especially the American pancakes, are worth breaking any dietary resolve. Their cinnamon buns are also an absolute treat. Check out the reviews here.
Rosemary Kitchen
This chic restaurant is a delightful experience that blends the charm of local Nepali cuisine with a touch of Western flavors. The open inner garden provides a tranquil backdrop, evoking a tropical vibe that enhances the meal. I loved their chicken and vegetarian momo. The tofu and rice dishes are also standout options for those seeking a satisfying vegetarian meal. Check out the reviews here.
Where to Eat in Chitwan
Chitwan offers a diverse dining scene that combines local Nepali flavors with international influences, ensuring a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re in the mood for dal bhat at a cozy family-run restaurant or want to explore trendy cafes with fusion dishes, the options are endless.
Shantiko Kitchen
Located in Sauraha, this chic restaurant is a truly memorable experience that combines exceptional food, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff is incredibly friendly, making you feel right at home as you settle into the unique ambiance of this one-of-a-kind restaurant. While your meal is being prepared, you’re welcomed with a small bowl of popcorn. The dal bhat here is absolutely delicious, with flavors that leave you coming back for more. Check out the reviews here.
Greasy Spoon Restaurant
This chic restaurant in Sauraha offers a delightful experience that combines great ambiance, fantastic food, and a touch of live entertainment. It is known for its mix of Nepali and Western dishes, offering a diverse menu that caters to different tastes. Although a bit on the pricier side, the quality of the food and the overall experience make it well worth it. During our visit, my daughter wasn’t feeling too adventurous, so we opted for a woodfire pizza. It turned out to be the best pizza I had in Nepal. Check out the reviews here.
Sunset View Restaurant
If you love having your meals with a splendid view, Sunset View Restaurant is the ideal place to do so. The restaurant offers a serene and unforgettable experience along the banks of the Rapti River and is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. The restaurant has an extensive menu that blends traditional Nepali cuisine with international dishes. We visited the restaurant after a safari walk and it was a great spot to cool off. Check out the reviews here.
How to Read a Nepali Menu
Learning how to speak Nepali before traveling can make navigating Nepal easier, but it’s still possible to get around without knowing the language. Since food plays a big part in any cultural experience, it’s helpful to learn some basic Nepali phrases when dining out.
Knowing a few key phrases will enhance your dining experience and make reading menus much simpler during your journey. Here are some words and phrases to know when you’re dining out in Nepal;
Popular Nepali Main Dishes
- दाल भात तरकारी (pronounced Dal-bhat-tarkari): lentils, rice and vegetable curry
- ढिंडो (pronounced Dhindo): Porridge or mashed food
- चौरासी व्यञ्जन (pronounced Chaurasi Byanjan): Nepali buffet
- भैंसीको मासु (pronounced bhainsiko maasu): Buff or Buffalo meat
Common Vegetables in Nepali
- आलु (pronounced Alu): Potato
- बन्दा गोभी (pronounced Banda Gobi): Cabbage
- गोभी (pronounced Gobhi): Cauliflower
- टमाटर (pronounced Tamatar): Tomato
- प्याज (pronounced Pyaaj): Onion
Popular Drinks in Nepali
- पानी (pronounced Paani): Water
- चिया (pronounced Chiyaa): Tea
- कफी (pronounced Kaafii): Coffee
- दुध (pronounced Dudh): Milk
- रक्सी (pronounced Raksi): Rice Beer
Helpful Restaurant Phrases in Nepali
- दुई को लागि एक टेबल (pronounced Duiko lagi eka tebala.): A table for two.
- के म मेरो अर्डर गर्न सक्छु? (pronounced Ke ma mero ardara garna sakchu?): Can I make my order?
- मलाई पकौडाको थाली चाहियो। (pronounced Malai momo thali cahiyo.): I want a plate of dumplings.
- के म एक कप चिया पिउन सक्छु? (pronounced Ke ma eka kapa ciya piuna sakchu?): May I have a cup of tea?
- तरकारीमा नुन धेरै थियो । (pronounced Tarkarima nuna dherai thiyo.): The salt was too much in the vegetables.
- कृपया कुनै पनि मासु थप नगर्नुहोस्। (pronounced Krpaya kunai pani masu thapa nagarnuhos.): Please do not add any meat.
- खानाको लागि कति? (pronounced Khanako lagi kati?): How much for the meal?
- खाना महान थियो। (pronounced Khana mahana thiyo.): The food was great.
- मलाई एक गिलास पानी चाहिन्छ। (pronounced Malai eka gilasa paani cahincha.): I need a glass of water.
To learn more useful words and phrases, there are a lot of excellent language learning apps you can use to build up your vocabulary. Most restaurant staff, especially in Kathmandu, do speak some basic English though. However, knowing these dishes and some helpful Nepali phrases beforehand can go a long way when you venture into the world of Nepalese cuisine.
Top Food Tours in Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the bustling capital of Nepal, is the perfect place to begin your culinary journey. From vibrant street food stalls to cozy local eateries, the city offers a wide array of traditional Nepalese dishes to savor. Here are some of the top food tours in Kathmandu:
1. Thamel Food Tour
Thamel is one of Kathmandu’s most lively neighborhoods, known for its bustling streets, shops, and diverse eateries. A food tour in Thamel will take you to local spots where you can sample momos, dal bhat, and Newari snacks. The vibrant atmosphere and the aromas of freshly cooked food make Thamel a must-visit for food lovers. We recommend you take this 3-hour walking tour for a seamless experience.
2. Ason Market Tour
Ason Market, one of Kathmandu’s oldest markets, is known for its colorful atmosphere and fresh produce. On a tour of Ason Market, you can try street foods like samosas, pani puri, and chatpate (a spicy puffed rice snack). A guided visit will also introduce you to the spices and ingredients used in Nepali cooking, offering a deeper understanding of the local culture. You’ll absolutely love this 2-hour Kathmandu walking tour that leads through the market.
3. Patan and Bhaktapur Food Tour
Patan and Bhaktapur are two historic cities near Kathmandu that boast rich cultural and culinary traditions. In Patan, you can try Newari dishes like chatamari and choila. Bhaktapur is famous for Juju Dhau, a creamy yogurt, as well as traditional snacks like kwati (mixed bean soup) and bara (lentil pancake). Exploring these cities while savoring traditional foods adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. For a taste of Nepal’s street food, we recommend you take this 6-hour Kathmandu food tour.
Culinary Adventures Beyond Kathmandu
For those looking to delve deeper into Nepal’s culinary scene, there are plenty of regions beyond Kathmandu to explore. Here are some of the best food tours and experiences outside the capital:
1. Pokhara Food Tour
Pokhara, a picturesque lakeside city, is a popular destination for travelers. The city has many restaurants serving both traditional Nepali dishes and international cuisine. Enjoy momos, thukpa, and dal bhat while soaking in the beautiful views of Phewa Lake.
Many lakeside cafes also serve freshly caught fish from the lake, prepared with local spices, adding to the culinary experience. If you want to make these delicacies, we recommend you take this 2-hour cooking class.
2. Chitwan Food Experience
Chitwan is famous for its national park and wildlife, but it also offers a unique culinary experience with Tharu cuisine. The Tharu people are the indigenous inhabitants of Chitwan, and their dishes are distinct and flavorful. Try dhikri (steamed rice flour dumplings), ghungi (snail curry), and bheda ko bhutwa (spicy goat meat). The food here reflects the Tharu community’s deep connection to the land, with locally sourced ingredients from the fertile Terai plains.
3. Mustang Food Tour
Mustang, a region in northern Nepal, is heavily influenced by Tibetan culture and cuisine. Here, you can try dishes like thukpa, tsampa (roasted barley flour), and yak butter tea. Mustang’s hearty cuisine is ideal for the cold mountain climate and provides insight into the resilience and traditions of the local people.
4. Manaslu Food Adventure
The Manaslu Circuit is known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique culture. During the trek, you will have the chance to enjoy traditional Himalayan dishes. Teahouses along the route serve simple but nourishing meals like Tibetan bread, Sherpa stew, and yak butter tea—perfect for recharging after a long day of trekking.
Enjoy these Nepalese Dishes
Nepal is not only a paradise for trekkers and adventurers but also a dream destination for food lovers. Its diverse culture is beautifully reflected in its cuisine, which is full of bold flavors and made with care. Whether you’re enjoying a warm bowl of thukpa in the mountains or tasting spicy choila in the streets of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, you will experience Nepal’s rich culture and warm hospitality.
It’s always a good idea to enjoy the local cuisine when you’re traveling, so make sure to try these traditional Nepali dishes during your next visit. Here are more of my articles on Nepal and Asia to help you with your trip planning:
- Learning the Himalayan way of life in Kathmandu Valley
- Best Places to Visit in Kathmandu
- The Ancient Town of Bhaktapur
- Dawn on Rapti River
- 2-week Vietnam itinerary
- Pakistan with kids
- 20 Interesting facts about Bhutan
- How to spend 2 weeks in India
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.
Inspired? Pin It!
