Top Restaurants in Nepal

Thinking of traveling to Nepal? Are you worried to find out which are the best restaurants in Nepal you should dine at? Look no further as we have spent hundreds of hours researching and selected the best restaurants that can provide you with authentic Nepalese and international dishes at a reasonable price.

Nepal is a beautiful country located in the Himalayan region of Southeast Asia. The nation is renowned for its majestic peaks, and rich culture and heritage. Apart from its astonishing natural beauty, you get to experience several authentic Nepalese dishes and other famous international dishes.

From traditional Nepalese cuisine to western and international cuisine, restaurants in Nepal have some of the best food establishments. From cheap street eats to fine dining, you will find cuisines that satisfy your taste.

Moving forward, we highly recommend that you engage with the local people for their recommendations to try out the best Nepalese restaurants. They will provide you with the best reliable information about the food in the respective area.

Highlights

• Nepalese cuisine is a unique blend of Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian influences. The cuisine mainly comprises fresh ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and spices. So, the Nepalese dish is known for its flavorful dishes. These dishes are typically served in a thali and multiple small bowls.
• In recent years Western cuisine has gained a lot of popularity in Nepal due to a number of factors. These include the growth of tourism and the increasing exposure to Western culture. Consequently, changing the tastes and preferences of the Nepalese people.
• Among the numerous Nepalese dishes, Newari cuisine is a popular dish. The dish has a unique flavor, as it requires distinctive cooking methods and a variety of ingredients. Some of the most famous Newar dishes are Samay Baji and Chatamari.
• Like Pokhara in the Mid-Western area of Nepal, Kathmandu is a vibrant attraction for travelers. It is a perfect mix of modern urban life and traditional Nepalese culture. Consequently, it is a hub for tourists to explore monasteries, shops, street food, hotels, and Nepalese restaurants.

Top Restaurants In Nepal

Nepal offers a variety of dishes in its reputable restaurants that can satisfy your food cravings. The country is a hot spot for a wide range of establishments, which boast authentic food, and ingredients.

Consequently, they have been loved and admired by travelers worldwide for their unique texture, style, and taste. The food at these top restaurants showcases Nepal’s rich culinary heritage, incorporating traditional spices and ingredients into contemporary dishes.

Some of the best restaurants in Nepal include French Bakery Kathmandu, Avocado Cafe Thame, and Yala Cafe. Moreover, other notable restaurants include Avocado Cafe Thamel and French Creperie Kathmandu.

These outlets offer delicious food and drinks and demonstrate the unique Nepalese cultural experience and hospitality. Besides, you might ask, why do these fine dining restaurants differ from all the others?

Simply put, these food establishments put a modern twist on their dishes and offer you a taste of authentic cuisine with a blend of contemporary flair. In addition, these top restaurants are known to use local ingredients to offer their customers the freshest and most flavorful dishes possible.

So, whether you’re looking for a fine-dining establishment to enjoy your evening or a cozy cafe to spend quality time with your friends, you will most certainly find the best restaurant to appeal to your palate. Without any further delay, let’s explore the top restaurants in Nepal. Bon Appétit!

MarcoPolo Restaurant

The restaurant is located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. To put it precisely, you can visit the outlet on the 1st Floor of Chhaya Center, Thamel. MarcoPolo stands out among other top restaurants in Nepal because of its unique fusion of Nepalese and Italian cuisine.

Established in 1987 by Rubiolo Battista, the outlet is popular among travelers for its unique dining experience and innovative cuisine. In addition, the dishes are made of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. As a result, it not only ensures a fantastic culinary experience but also delivers healthy and nutritious food to customers.

Specialties

The MarcoPolo’s food menu offers you a variety of pasta, pizzas, salads, and classic Italian specialties. Moreover, you will be able to enjoy your favorite meal with a great selection of wines.

On the other hand, this affordable Nepalese restaurant provides Nepalese dishes such as momo, thakali platter, and thukpa. So, whether you’re looking for an attentive staff meeting, a party, or a romantic dinner, MarcoPolo’s family-friendly, comfortable experience and certified staff will ensure a pleasant experience.

We recommend you visit MarcoPolo to enjoy the flavors of Italy and enjoy a truly unforgettable dining experience in Nepal.

Reviews

Overall, the restaurant has impressed numerous visitors with its stunning dining experience. The establishment has a number of quality reviews on  TripAdvisor. The outlet is impressive, you will be warmly greeted by the staff, which will make you feel right at home. The comforting seating arrangements, and charming furniture makes this fine-dining restaurant’s atmosphere livid.

French Bakery Kathmandu

One of the popular dining restaurants in Kathmandu, French Bakery Kathmandu is renowned for its delicious baked goods for guests to indulge in. The food outlet serves a range of baked items, including cakes, pastries, and bread, using only the finest ingredients.

Specialties

The chefs at this top restaurant in Nepal use traditional French baking techniques to provide a taste of the patisseries of Paris. Additionally, you can enjoy the baked goods with a serving of freshly made aromatic tea and coffee. This makes the restaurant a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, offering its customers a warm loaf of bread, croissant, and decadent desserts. Moreover, you can also enjoy other savory options such as pizzas and sandwiches.

Reviews

French Bakery Kathmandu is a must-visit for those who have a sweet tooth for fresh baked goods and authentic French cuisine. The menu at French Bakery Kathmandu is praised by diners as they explain that the dishes feature hearty ingredients and bold flavors. Currently, the outlet has excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.

Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen

Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen is a famous restaurant located on Jhamsikhel Road, Lalitpur. The outlet offers an exotic dining experience combining contemporary cooking techniques and traditional Nepalese and Indian flavors. Despite the outlet’s low profile, it has been able to accumulate loyal customers over the years.

Specialty

The unique restaurant is widely known for its comfortable dining atmosphere and diverse dishes. The food menu of Tasneem offers a range of cuisine made with high-quality ingredients. So, each dish has a distinctive flavor and freshness to it. Visitors like you can enjoy dishes that range from a healthy salad to hearty stews and grilled items.

Reviews

Tasneem’s Kings Kitchen receives numerous reviews on a regular basis on Tripadvisor. The sophisticated restaurant’s warm and inviting ambiance makes it a perfect destination for you to spend time with your friends and family. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the restaurant’s unique dining experience to make your visit to Nepal memorable.

Lavie Garden

For travelers or visitors in Nepal who seek a tranquil, peaceful place to relax, Lavie Garden is the best restaurant in Nepal for an exceptional dining experience. The outlet is located in Boudha Ramhiti, Kathmandu. The restaurant is surrounded by lush green vegetation, which makes it an ideal place for a peaceful retreat.

Specialty

You can enjoy a unique experience with a perfect blend of authentic Italian and Nepalese cuisine with international flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch, a weekend brunch, or a romantic dinner, Lavie Garden caters to the needs of everyone. The elegant Nepalese restaurant provides exceptional appetizers such as the Keema Samosa roll, and Crispy Papdi chaat to kick off your hunger.

Reviews

With its impeccable service, stunning outdoor setting, and delicious cuisine Lavie Garden is a must-visit modern restaurant to relax and enjoy a unique dining experience. If you want to learn about the outlet’s review, you can check it out on TripAdvisor.

Carpe Diem Lounge & Bakery

Are you looking for a cozy restaurant that offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a delicious selection of freshly baked goods? Located at Paknajol 16, Kathmandu Carpe Diem Lounge & Bakery offers an exciting menu of pastries and cakes with various hot and cold drinks. The lavish restaurant has a lounge featuring comfortable seating arrangements for customers to enjoy coffee and catch up with friends and family.

Specialty

The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere offers a perfect meetup joint for any occasion. Moreover, in regards to the extensive dish menu, some popular beverages are fresh juices; shakes served with ice creams, fresh pulpy fruit juice, and premium coffees. Likewise, the outlet is famous for its pancakes, breakfast bowls, Nepalese-style momos, and delicious snacks.

Reviews

The impressive selection of dishes, reasonable price, and its astonishing atmosphere has earned this fancy Nepalese restaurant several amazing reviews on TripAdvisor. So, whether you’re looking for a place to relax with friends or you need to grab a quick snack,  Carpe Diem Lounge & Bakery Kathmandu strives to make your visit an enjoyable experience.

Avocado Cafe Thamel

Avocado cafe at Thamel is a well-known dining restaurant in Kathmandu for people who seek more than crusty pizza and luscious burgers. The outlet mainly specializes in Italian, Mexican, American, Indian, and Thai cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast, a healthy lunch, or a delicious dinner, Avocado Café will cater to your needs.

Specialty

It is one of the best restaurants that offers an extensive menu with a variety of options that cater to the needs of distinguished tastes and dietary requirements. For instance, you can enjoy Benedict, waffles, and French toast for breakfast. Likewise, for lunch and dinner, you’ll have several options to choose from such as pasta, salads, wraps, gourmet burgers, Asian curry, and the list goes on.

These dishes are made from fresh, organic ingredients. Avocado Cafe focuses on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and promoting sustainability. Consequently, it is considered the best restaurant in Nepal for those who value health.

Reviews

The sophisticated restaurant has earned its reputation because of the food and sustainability practices, and its exceptional service. In terms of reviews, the Avocado Thamel has earned itself numerous positive reviews on TripAdvisor. Overall, we recommend Avocado Café as an excellent choice for delicious, healthy food in a relaxed environment.

French Creperie Kathmandu

Are you looking for an outlet that serves you an authentic taste of the French palate? French Crêperie in Kathmandu is the perfect restaurant to enjoy an intimate dining experience with the best French cuisine. The outlet ensures the finest and freshest ingredients have been used to create a delicious and authentic dish that stays true to the spirit of French cuisine.

Specialty

The intimate restaurant’s specialty is a traditional French dish called crêpes. Moreover, you’ll have a wide range of sweet and savory delights, from hearty savory crêpes filled with roasted vegetables, chicken, and goat cheese to classic crêpes with fresh fruit and Nutella. Apart from the delicious crêpes, the restaurant serves traditional French dishes like the bouillabaisse, escargots, and coq au vin.

Reviews

In terms of atmosphere, the restaurant has a cozy and intimate dining room. The outlet also showcases stunning French décor and vintage accents amid Kathmandu city. Consequently, earning the outlet excellent comments, and reviews on TripAdvisor. French Crêperie is a must-visit Nepalese restaurant to satisfy your taste buds in a romantic and relaxed atmosphere.

Yala Cafe

Yala Cafe is the perfect restaurant in Nepal to enjoy a unique blend of Western and Nepalese cuisine if you seek a vibrant and eclectic dining spot in the heart of Kathmandu. It is one of the best restaurants in Nepal that offers a menu inspired by diverse flavors and ingredients from several regions of Nepal. Thus, providing its customers with a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Specialty

As a guest, you can expect an extensive menu that offers a diverse range of dishes that suit every taste and preference. For breakfast, you can start with bacon, toast, and eggs. Moreover, for lunch and dinner, you can choose from varieties such as Dal-Bhat, pasta, burgers, momos, and Nepalese curries.

Reviews

Numerous visitors have made reviews on the ambient restaurant’s excellent practice of using fresh and local ingredients on TripAdvisor. In terms of dining experience Yala Cafe offers a bright and airy atmosphere with a twist of modern and stylish décor. Thus, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance for the visitors.

Upstairs Cafe

Upstairs Cafe is another trendy restaurant in  Nepal on the list that offers a great experience of authentic Nepalese cuisine and culture. The outlet is located in Kwabahal, Thamel, Kathmandu. So, you are sure to take advantage of it. In recent years, the restaurant has gained massive popularity among locals and visitors alike. One of the reasons is the restaurant’s delicious and nutritious dishes.

Speciality

The outlet commits to healthy cooking methods to ensure the ingredients’ quality and taste are retained. Additionally, you will have the option to select from a range of vegetarian dishes made from seasonal and fresh ingredients. Some of the restaurant’s specialties are Momo platters, Chicken Chilly, Tofu Burgers, veg sandwiches and Potato stews.

Reviews

These factors have contributed to the popularity of Upstairs Cafe among people who value a healthy lifestyle. Further, its extensive menu and comfortable seating arrangements make Upstairs Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Nepal for casual and business meetings or simply to relax. Thus, Upstairs cafe has received numerous positive reviews on TripAdvisor.

Blueberry Kitchen & Coffee Shop

Another favorite among tourists and locals is the Blueberry Kitchen & Coffee Shop at Paknajol Marg, Kathmandu. Since its opening in 2014, the modern restaurant has served its valued customer’s delicious meals and beverages. In addition, the staff are ready to cater to your requests and answer any questions you might have during your visit.

Speciality

Some of the cozy restaurant’s specialties are an Aussie burger, cheesecake, pad thai, and Mongolian beef. In addition, Blueberry Kitchen & Coffee Shop offers an extensive selection of beverages, such as smoothies, teas, shakes, and coffee. Also, for dessert, yo can choose from a wide selection of pastries and desserts.

Reviews

We highly recommend you try the coffee at Blueberry Kitchen & Coffee Shop. The coffee is expertly brewed with the finest beans. Despite its high-quality ingredients the price range is very affordable. Numerous visitors has praised the outlet’s service, and dining experience on TripAdvisor.

You Are Likely To Expect:

Suppose you seek to enjoy a lavish meal and a coffee break at one of the top restaurants in Nepal. Here are some things you are likely to expect during your visit.

• Private Dining Rooms: The top restaurants in Nepal offer private dining rooms to enhance an intimate dining experience.
• Fine Dining Experience: Expect a formal and elegant atmosphere with high-end silverware, tableware, and glassware. Staff will cater to your needs with top hospitality and service.
• Extensive Wine List: Most of the best restaurants mentioned above will feature a variety of red, white, and sparkling wines.
• Fine Dining Menu: The menu often focuses on creativity, presentation, and flavor.
• Unique Decor and Ambiance: These restaurants in Nepal will feature unique and elegant decor with luxurious furnishings. This will ensure an atmosphere that is both refined and welcoming.

Honorable Mentions

Most of the top restaurants in Nepal are known for their reputation and quality. However, only some of those restaurants can make it to our list of the top best restaurants in Nepal. Nonetheless, it does not mean that these places are not worth visiting.

Some of these restaurants might be lesser-known to travelers, but they offer delicious food and a unique culinary experience like the rest of our list. So, it should be noted that some of these hidden gems are also worth the visit.

Through this article, you have learned the brief introduction to the best restaurants in Nepal. Besides, if you seek more than just experiencing new flavors in Nepal. We recommend you the best reviews and rated Nepal tour companies and Nepal trekking companies to further enhance your travel experience in Nepal. It will ensure you enjoy the best benefits of the deals offered by the top international, and local tour operators in Nepal.

Best Nepalese Dishes

Nepalese is a reflection of the country’s diverse geography and its rich and varied culture and tradition. The cuisine is a unique blend of the country’s spices, herbs, and aromatics. Some of the popular spices used in Nepalese dishes include coriander, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nuts.

Northern and Southern influences mainly influence Nepalese dishes. Dishes from the Northern part of Nepal are heavily influenced by Tibetan culture. Whereas, in the Southern parts, the people have adapted to the Indian cuisines and their influence. Consequently, the  intermingling of these two distinct cuisines has created a wide range of Nepalese fusion dishes.

Nepalese cuisine has found its way to several parts of the world in recent years. As a result, people across the globe visit Nepal to appreciate its unique flavor and complexity. To name some, here are some of the well-known best authentic Nepalese dishes:

• Momo: It is one of the most popular dishes, which the Nepalese have taken influence from Tibetan cuisines. Typically, a momo is a steamed dumpling filled with minced meat, vegetables, or even cheese. The dish is usually served with dipping sauce.
• Gundruk: This dish is made from fermented vegetables such as cabbage and radishes. It is often served as a side dish or prepared as a curry.
• Tingmo: Tingmo is a traditional Sherpa dish. It is a steamed bread made from a mixture of flour, water, and yeast. Similar to momo, the dish is usually served with soups and stews.
• Thukpa: Thukpa is a staple Sherpa cuisine made from hand-made noodles. The dish is usually served with soup made from meat and other vegetables.
• Dal Bhat: The dish is a staple in Nepalese cuisine. The dish is also known as Nepal Thali and is composed of steamed rice and lentil soup, also known as dal. Curries, vegetables, meat, and pickles accompany Dal Bhat.
• Aloo Tama is a popular side dish in Nepalese cuisine; it is made from potatoes, black-eyed beans, and bamboo shoots. Aloo Tama is mainly cooked in spicy sauce, which is tomato-based.
• Sel Roti: Also known as sweet bread, sel roti is made from the batter of rice flour, ghee, and cardamom. The mixture is then deep-fried in hot oil and is served during festivals and special occasions.
• Choila: Choila is a popular Newari dish made with boiled or roasted chicken or duck. The meat is also mixed with herbs and spices to enhance its taste and aroma.
• Newari Khaja Set: Similar to dal bhat, Newari khaja combines several food items. The dish usually included meat, lentils, pickles, curried vegetables, and rice.
• Yomari: It is a traditional Newari dessert made. The dish is made of rice flour, which is then filled with a sweet mixture of molasses and sesame seeds. It is then shaped into a crescent-moon shape.

These are some of the few examples of the diverse Nepalese dishes you can try on your visit to Nepal. Each of these dishes resembles Nepal’s rich heritage and offers a unique taste of authentic flavors. So, whether you seek a sweet treat or a hearty meal, Nepal offers you a dish that will suit your taste buds.

Dining Tips

Dining at one of the best restaurants in Nepal can be a memorable experience. So, make sure to make the most out of it. Likewise, keeping a few dining tips in mind to enhance your experience during your visit is essential. We have listed out some of the notable dining tips to adhere to at the best Nepalese restaurant:

• Make a reservation: If you plan to dine in a Nepalese restaurant, make sure to make a reservation in advance. It is highly recommended that you do this, especially during peak hours or on weekends.
• Dress appropriately: Some Nepalese restaurants might have a dress code. So it’s recommended to dress appropriately when dining in one of these top restaurants.
• Be open to trying new dishes: Nepalese cuisine is known for being diverse and flavorful, and the menu is likely to feature a variety of dishes. Some of which you may have yet to try. Always be open to trying new flavors and dishes in such a situation. Further, feel free to ask for recommendations from the server.
• Take your time: At the time of your visit, take your time to savor the atmosphere and food of the restaurant. We recommend you not rush but enjoy the experience with a pleasant conversation with your dining partner.
• Be bold and ask for a substitution: Some of you might have dietary restrictions, which may require you to make changes to the dishes served. So, feel free to ask your server about the ingredients of the dishes. Most servers will happily answer your request and cater to your needs.

In conclusion, Nepal is a perfect destination for experiencing exotic culture, and blend of international flavors. In addition to these, the country offers travelers an opportunity to explore the majestic mountain regions of Nepal. If you seek to start your trek expedition here in Nepal, we recommend you the best Everest trek operators and Annapurna circuit trek operators.