Eating in Nepal | Daal Bhat and More

Traditional Nepalese Dishes

Nepalese cuisine offers a rich tapestry of authentic dishes that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. Staples like dal bhat—a combination of lentil soup and rice—are central to daily meals. The Newar community contributes unique flavors with dishes such as chatamari, a rice flour crepe topped with various ingredients, and samay baji, a traditional platter featuring beaten rice, lentil pancakes, and spiced meats. For those seeking affordable dining, Nepal’s cities, especially Kathmandu, offer a range of options from street stalls serving momos (dumplings) to local eateries known as bhojanalayas, where one can enjoy hearty meals at budget-friendly prices.

Nepal’s culinary landscape is a delightful fusion of Indian and Tibetan influences, resulting in a rich tapestry of flavors and aromas. Staples such as rice, lentils, chickpeas, and corn form the foundation of many traditional dishes, making Nepal a haven for those seeking authentic and diverse culinary experiences.

• Dal Bhat: A quintessential Nepali meal, Dal Bhat consists of steamed rice paired with lentil soup. It’s often accompanied by vegetable curries, pickles, and sometimes meat, offering a balanced and hearty meal.

• Momos: These steamed or fried dumplings are filled with minced meat or vegetables and are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce. Momos have become a beloved snack and are widely available across the country.

• Sel Roti: A traditional homemade, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread/doughnut, Sel Roti is a popular delicacy during festivals and celebrations. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed with yogurt or vegetables.

• Wo or Bara: Originating from the Newari community, Wo are savory pancakes made from ground lentils. They can be plain or mixed with minced meat and are commonly prepared during festivals.

• Yomari: A festive delicacy, Yomari is a steamed dumpling made from rice flour dough, filled with a sweet mixture of molasses and sesame seeds. It’s particularly associated with the Newari festival of Yomari Punhi.

You can get a “Newari Thaali” if you enter a Newari restaurant , and if you enter a “Thakali restaurant” you get Thakali set of plate. The Newars, an indigenous group in Nepal, are known for their impressive 200-dishes cuisine. Chatamari, a flat crepe made with rice flour and topped with vegetables, yak cheese, eggs, and ground meat, is the Newari signature dish. So is baji, a dish made with beaten rice that looks like rolled oats served with vegetables and spicy sauce — the Newari version of dal bhat. Choyila is another dish, made with fried buffalo meat mixed with greens. If you’re not a fan of offal, be warned: Newari cuisine is known for using all the parts of an animal, including tongue, spine, bone marrow, and lungs.

Affordable Dining in Nepal

Nepal, especially Kathmandu, offers a plethora of budget-friendly dining options that cater to both locals and tourists. While tourist-centric areas may feature international cuisines, venturing into local eateries can provide authentic Nepalese flavors at affordable prices.

• Local Eateries (Bhojanalayas): These establishments serve traditional meals like Dal Bhat at reasonable prices. Eating with your right hand is customary in these settings.

• Street Food: Nepal’s street food scene is vibrant, offering snacks like samosas, sel roti, and momos. These are not only delicious but also easy on the wallet.

• Cafes and Bakeries: In urban areas, numerous cafes and bakeries offer a range of snacks, from muffins to grilled corn cobs, providing quick and affordable bites.

In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, meal prices can vary. A simple meal at a local eatery might cost less than NPR 1500, while dining in tourist-oriented restaurants could range from NPR 250 to NPR 500 for a main course. It’s also common for some restaurants to add government taxes (13%) and service charges (10%) to the bill.

Exploring Nepalese cuisine offers a window into the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re indulging in a traditional Newari feast or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, the flavors of Nepal promise a memorable culinary adventure.