Top 10 Thakali Restaurants in Kathmandu
Food is to eat. Cultural food is to immerse yourself into the delicacy.
Food is to eat. Cultural food is to immerse yourself into the delicacy.
If you're searching for a different flavour in a meal, Thakali is an excellent choice. The distinct tastes and spices of this Nepalese cuisine will leave your taste buds tingling. Continue reading to learn some of the greatest meals to try in the Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu valley.
Thakali cuisine is a traditional Thakali diet. The food has a blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian influences. It is renowned for its use of spices and herbs and its distinct flavour profile.
With its distinctive culture and tradition, Nepal has made a significant impact on history. It is regarded as a present from nature and cuisine. People may be proud of their heritage, especially when you note that the majority of them are still in touch with the old customs.
Nepalese cuisine, particularly Newari cuisine and Thakali cuisine, is well-known for its unique flavour, which can be tasted in several restaurants throughout the valley. If you want to try Newari food, visiting Newari Restaurants in Kathmandu valley is worth it. For Thakali, the Thakali specialised restaurants make your eating experience perfect. Cuisine from Nepal, like other types of tourism in Nepal, might be classified as a paradise for culinary tourism.
Nepal's multiethnic and multicultural character offers an infinite variety of culinary possibilities depending on geography, religion, ethnicity, culture, holidays, environment, and a host of other factorsThakali cuisine is said to have evolved in Nepal's Mustang province. The Thakalis are a Tibetan tribe that migrated to Nepal in the 13th century and settled in the Dolpo Nepali district. The Thakalis were formerly nomadic people who eventually settled down and began to cultivate and trade. They created their own distinct culture and cuisine.
The Thakalis are famous for their hospitality, and their cuisine reflects this. Thakali meals are often served in a communal setting with the intention of being shared. Thakali cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients. The food is frequently prepared with little oil and is generally very nutritious.
Nepalese cuisine is divided into two categories: Madhesi, which includes Maithili, Bhojpuri, Awadhi, and Lohorung food from the Eastern Nepal area, and Janajati cuisine in the central hills. Newari cuisine from the Valley of Kathmandu is known as Urbanized Newari cooking.
Thakalis make up the bulk of Nepal's population, and Thakali cuisine is a synthesis of various indigenous cuisines from the Himalayan lowland. Nepalese food, in its pure form, needs to be studied, analyzed, and eaten in order to better understand this wonderful cuisine.
The Thakalis who live in the Thak Khola region of Mustang is well-known for their Thakali cuisine. The Thak Khola Valley was a straightforward trade route that ran through the mountains during ancient times.
Thak Khola was the main trade route in the Himalayas in ancient times. Many individuals benefited from the business since they may import vegetables. Because they were carried up to higher elevations, however, the veggies would soon dry out.
The cuisine of Nepal is very distinct, with a strong Newari and Thakali flavour found in the various restaurants scattered throughout the valley. Nepalese food may be classified as heavenly for culinary tourism because of its wide range of options.
Related Article: Newari Cuisine
The Thakali people are a group of Nepalis who reside in the mountainous region. They are recognized for their colourful traditions and cuisine. The Thakali cuisine is distinctive to the area, known for its spice and herb usage.
Thakali cuisine is a Nepalese cuisine with Tibetan and Indian influences. It's famous for its spice use, lentils, and rice. Thukpa (noodles), momo (dumplings), and sekuwa (barbecued meat) are some of the most popular dishes.
Thakali cuisine has long been prepared with the hands, and meals are frequently served on individual plates or bowls. However, as Thakalis adopt Western eating habits, forks and spoons are becoming more popular.
Rice, wheat, and maize are the most popular grains in Thakali cuisine. These are generally complimented with vegetables like potatoes, greens, and beans. Lentils are also a popular addition since they provide protein to many Thakalis who do not eat meat.
Thakali cuisine is quite spicy, with chili peppers, ginger, garlic, and cumin being used in abundance. The degree of spice, on the other hand, may be adjusted to suit personal preferences.
Thakali food is becoming increasingly popular as Nepal becomes more tourist-friendly. Thakali eateries may be found in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, and Thakali cuisine is frequently served at Nepalese festivals.
Related Article: Top Five Famous Food to try in NepalBecause you might be drooling over the prospect of consuming it, I'd rather not keep you waiting. You may be a foodie and want to know what's in one serving of Thakali cuisine. Stick with me since I'll go through every dish from start to finish while feeding you.
A Thakali meal usually comprises a lentil soup, white rice, a vegetable dish, and a meat dish. The lentil soup is generally seasoned with ginger, garlic, cumin, and chilli peppers and contains either red or yellow split peas.
Kachhyamba (Dhedo): Kachhyamba is a type of thakali food that is made out of buckwheat flour. It is a thick, porridge-like dish that is often served with curd or cheese. Kachhyamba is a healthy and hearty meal that is perfect for a cold winter day.
This is also known as Dhedo which is quite popular among the locals. This is made by keeping it in the boiling water and stirring it. It is made from rice flour and sour milk. When the larvae pupate, you must cook it for about one hour until it forms a thick gruel (Dhedo). After it has cooled down, mix it in a bowl with your fingers then roll out the stiff dough into finger-size pieces with your hand.
Thakali Thali is appealing not just in taste, but also in appearance, with a rainbow of hues including pale green dal, green leafy vegetables, rich red meat, rice (which is white) and chutneys like chap/ Golbheda ko chutney (fresh tomato pickle).
Rice (Bhat): Rice is Nepalese cuisine's most common element. It is consumed by the wealthy and poor, young and old. Rice has become a fundamental aspect of Nepalese culture that many proverbs exist about.
"Bhat bhari, bahari" is a Proverb that means "Rice is heavy and life is difficult." This expression was coined to express how tough life can be.
Long grain white basmati rice is gently boiled and served slightly fluffy. Before cooking, wash the rice at least twice in cold water. To thicken the lentil soup, save the second starchy rinse water. Also, use the appropriate amount of water to cook your rice.
Lentil Soup (Dal): Dals come in a variety of colours and flavours, including red, green, and yellow lentils. Vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and tomatoes are frequently added to dal. Dal is often prepared in a curry or soup and eaten with rice or bread.
Dals are also cooked in various ways, including as a dry dish. The lentils are first cooked until they are soft, then fried in oil with spices such as cumin, mustard seeds, and ginger. The fried lentils are then served with rice or bread.
Dal is a hearty meal that is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. It can be prepared with various sorts of lentils, including red lentils, brown lentils, and green lentils. Dal is frequently eaten with rice or bread and may also be used as a basis for curry or stew recipes.
Pressure cookers are widely used these days. After a while, remove the lentils from the pressure cooker and mash until smooth in an iron cooking pot. The dal's preferred slightly green colour comes out when it is cooked in an iron pot. Feel free to add salt, a few shavings of fresh ginger (Aduwa), and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Aromatic Jimbu is added to the soup just before serving. In a metal spoon, heat some ghee and quickly fry a tiny sprinkling of dried Jimbu. Then, in an instant, remove the lid from the simmering lentils and jam the ladle into the soup.
Spicy Fried Potatoes (Aalu Tareko): Potatoes have been a mainstay food in numerous civilizations for millennia, and for good reason. They're cheap, hearty, and flexible. Aalu Tareko is a Nepalese potato dish that's fried with spices and herbs. The potatoes are cut into small pieces and then fried in oil until golden brown. Afterwards, they're seasoned with salt, pepper, and other seasonings to individualize the taste.
Spicy Fried Potatoes are often garnished with jimbu, a Nepalese herb that grows in Mustang. Jimbu gives the potato a little bit of spice.
Spinach (Sag): Sag is a popular vegetable dish from Nepali and Thakali cuisine. It's prepared by simmering spinach or other leafy greens with herbs and spices.Sag may be prepared in a number of ways, but most often it is cooked with oil, garlic, and onions. Sag can be either part of a main dish or a side dish.
Meat Either Chicken or Goat (Mutton): Thakali cuisine is famous for its meat dishes, particularly chicken, goat, and mutton. Chicken is the most popular meat in thakali cooking; it's commonly prepared in a variety of ways, such as grilled, fried, or cooked in a curry sauce.
Each has a distinct flavour and texture that appeals to locals and tourists alike. It may be prepared in a variety of ways, but the most frequent methods are stewing and grilling.
Stewed meat is commonly prepared with vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. This procedure results in a flavorful and juicy dish that is ideal for chilly days. The sauce is a condiment that may be made from many different ingredients, including garlic, ginger, chilli peppers, and lemongrass.
Fresh Tomato Relish (golbheda ko achar): Tomato relish is a popular dish in the Thakali cuisine of Nepal. It is made by cooking fresh tomatoes with spices and seasonings, and it is typically served as a condiment or side dish. The relish has a tart and tangy flavor, and it can be used as a dipping sauce. Tomato relish is also a popular ingredient in Nepali curries and stews.
Dessert Fermented Rice (Phopké): One of the most popular dishes in the Thakali cuisine is phopké, which is a dessert made from fermented rice. The rice is boiled until it becomes a thick paste, then it is mixed with milk and sugar and left to ferment for several days. Phopké is often served with a dollop of yoghurt on top.
Phopké is a rice dessert that is one of the most popular dishes in Thakali cuisine. This dish is commonly served at special events like weddings and religious services, and it is regarded as a luxury.
Phopké is a fruit from Mexico that has been fermented for several weeks. It has a unique flavour that combines sweet and sour, and it's commonly garnished with nuts, dried fruits, and seasonings. Phopké is usually eaten in tiny bowls or cups and can be consumed as a snack or dessert.
Nepali cuisine is enhanced with a mix of spices and herbs, which not only improve the taste of your meal but also enhance your health. Many of the foods you'll encounter in Thakali homes are all-natural, balanced dishes that provide people with all of the essential health advantages. The food of Thakalis also includes a wide range of herbs and spices. But what are the health advantages of Thakali cuisine? Let's find out.
The Thakalis' food is distinctive to the region and notable for its use of spices and herbs. Garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and turmeric are some of the ingredients used in their cuisine. These items have health benefits.
Ginger is another antioxidant that can help to protect the body from free-radical-induced harm. It's also thought to have anti-inflammatory capabilities, which may aid in the reduction of arthritis pain and swelling. It may assist with stomach discomfort and nausea through its ability to soothe an upset stomach and relieve nausea.
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is a spice that has been used in traditional medicine for millennia. It is thought to have a variety of health advantages, including the capacity to help with digestion and nutrition absorption.
Coriander is a spice that's frequently utilized in Indian cuisine. It has a strong chemical taste and is recognized for its ability to improve digestion.
Turmeric has been used in herbal medicine for millennia. It is recognized for its anti-inflammatory characteristics and claims to be beneficial in the management of arthritis.
Timur is a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Timur has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Chap which is a genuine mixture of Timur, Salt and pepper also has significant health benefits. Chap is high in protein and has other important minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. These elements are necessary for our health and can aid in the overall wellness of our body.
The Thakalis have used spices and herbs in their cooking for a long time. These substances are all supposed to provide health benefits. The use of these ingredients can enhance the distinctiveness and taste of Thakali cuisine.
Recipes used in Thakali food are easy to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The best part is that these recipes use simple ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores.
In Nepal, the Thakali people are known for their culinary skills. They make a wide variety of dishes, both savoury and sweet, that is popular throughout the country. While many of these dishes can be time-consuming to prepare, there are several dishes that are easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
One such dish is Thakali khana, a simple yet delicious potato and spinach curry. This dish is often served with rice or roti and can be made with either fresh or frozen spinach. To make it even easier, you can use pre-cooked potatoes that just need to be reheated before adding to the curry.
Some of the most popular Thakali recipes include Thakali dal, Thakali rice, and Thakali soup. These dishes are hearty and filling and can be made in a matter of minutes. If you're looking for something a little lighter, there are also several Thakali salads that are perfect for an afternoon snack or a side dish at dinner.
Thakali cuisine is famous for its reliance on fresh ingredients and spices. The dishes are often substantial and satisfying, making them perfect for chilly weather. This cuisine is also low in fat, as it seldom uses any oil in the cooking process.
Thakali cuisine is derived from the land of Thakali people in the mustang region of Nepal. The chilly, clean air and desolate terrain have given Thakali cuisine a light, nutritious, and delicious flavour profile. Fresh vegetables, legumes, fruits, and whole-grain flour contribute to Thakali cuisine's distinct taste profile. Spices like chilli, ginger, coriander, and cumin give Thakali dishes their distinctive heat and zing.
Hearing all of these things about Thakali food your mouth must be watering. So if you are coming to Nepal then you might wanna know where you will get the best Thakali Khana. So let us start the official tour of the top 10 Thakali cuisine restaurants that provide the best Thakali food.
Bagaan Thakali serves a unique dish that is made with organic products and native Nepalese spices. With good time, they provide delectable meals. Their chef's distinctive idea includes various national and international cuisines. At Bagaan Thakali, you can try a variety of dishes.
Phone: 985-1038302, 01-4528949
Web: Bagaan Thakali
The most popular item on their menu are:-
Mutton Sukuti: Mutton Sukuti is a Nepali dish made of mutton or lamb liver. It is a very popular dish among the Newars of Nepal. The liver is first cleaned and then marinated in spices for several hours. It is then fried in ghee or oil until it is golden brown in colour.
Chicken Sausage: Chicken sausage is a type of sausage that is made with chicken as the main ingredient. It is a popular alternative to pork or beef sausages, and it is available in many different flavours.
Veg Thali: Veg thali is a traditional meal that usually includes a variety of vegetarian dishes. This may be used as an alternative for vegetarians drooling over Thakali cuisine.
Fish Thali: So looking for more flavor in your food. Fish Thali is the best option. It is provided with juicy and steamy fish curry which enhances the taste even more.
Bhojan Griha invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in, learn, and enjoy Nepal's ancient architectural, cultural, and culinary heritage. This restaurant has a lot of respect for Nepalese culture and ethnicity, therefore it strives to keep them alive so you can enjoy the flavour of Nepalese cuisine while dining on Thakali food from their organic farm. They are environment friendly and do not use and promote plastic products.
Phone: 01-4416423
Web: Bhojan Griha
Some dishes from their menu are as follows;
Aloo Tama Bodi: Aloo tama bodi is a Nepalese dish consisting of boiled potatoes and fermented soybeans that has been cooked. It's a popular meal in Nepal, often paired with rice.
Kukhura Ko Ledo: Kukhura Ko Ledo is a Nepalese dish made of roasted chicken and local spices. It is usually served with rice and a side of vegetables.
Khasi Ko Sekuwa: Khashi ko Sekuwa is a Nepalese dish made of goat meat. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices and then roasted on a skewer over an open fire. The result is a tender, juicy, and delicious dish that is sure to please the palate.
Lete was named after a tiny village in Mustang, where the locals live. They are one of the greatest in town, and they serve real Thakali cuisine. Potato and vegetable curries cooked with Jimbu and Gundruk ko achar are popular. They also provide Mula Thepe Achar (minced radish achar), one of Thakali cuisine's most renowned dishes.
Phone: 01-4416866
Web: Lete Thakali Kitchen
Some of their specialities, on the other hand, are well worth your time;
Phapar Ko Roti: Phapar Ko roti is a meal that consists of flour, water, and spices. The dough is then stretched out into thin circles on a griddle to be cooked. Phapar Ko roti is served with many different fillings, such as curried chicken or potatoes.
Chicken Local Set: Chicken local set is made with a chicken curry that is simmered in a flavorful sauce made with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The chicken is then served over a bed of steamed rice.
Pangra Ko Gravy: Pangra ko gravy is a Nepali dish made with buffalo meat. The gravy is a thick and spicy sauce that is perfect for dipping naan bread into. Pangra ko gravy is a hearty dish that is sure to fill you up.
Jimbu Thakali is well-known for its rustic atmosphere and hearty Thakali food and drinks, which are a testament to the richness of the Himalayas. This restaurant is named after the Himalayan plant Jimbu because it's a traditional Thakali place. There is something for everyone in the region, regardless of your favourite cuisine. You'll be able to try delicious Thakali cuisine or a typical American dining experience.
Phone: 01-5544011
Web: Jimbu Thakali
Some of their specials are:-
Dhido Thali: Dhindo is a Nepalese dish made from millet flour. It is often eaten as a flatbread, and can also be cooked into a porridge-like consistency. Dhindo is high in fibre and protein, making it a healthy and filling choice for a meal. It can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings, such as vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
Jimbu Special Cheli Jwai Thali: The Jimmu Jwai Cheli thal, which is brimming with love and respect, is chock-full of Thakali servers pouring papad, rashbari, and curd along with fish fry, chicken and mutton curry. This dish might take some time to prepare.
Jimbu Special Whole Local Chicken: They have a special Whole Local Chicken that's sure to please. The wait time is about 45 minutes, so be prepared to wait a little bit. But it'll be worth it once you get your hands on that delicious bird.
The most popular destination for Thakali Khana set is Nilgiri Thakali Delights. It has the ideal Dal, which is perfectly balanced, thick, creamy, and delicious. The restaurant is completely dedicated to Thakali cuisine with unique traditional Thakali dishes that you haven't likely heard or tasted before. It is not only less costly than other typical Thakali eateries, but it's also worth the money.
Phone: 01-4411487
Web: Nilgiri Thakali Delights
Some special items here worth a try are:-
Alankhu: Alankhu is a Tibetan soup made with yak meat and other local ingredients. It is a hearty, flavorful soup that is perfect for cold winter days. The rich, beefy flavour of the soup is complemented by the spicy chilis and fragrant herbs used in the recipe.
Kaju Fry: Kaju fry Nepali food is a delicious dish that is made with cashews. The cashews are fried in oil until they are crispy, and then they are served with a spicy sauce. This dish is popular in Nepal, and it is a favorite among many people.
This is the other location to offer wonderful Thakali cuisine, since it is well-decorated to provide a feel of a Thakali home or kitchen. The restaurant serves fried chhurpi on its menu - it looks extremely unusual. They also have a tiny shop where you can purchase Mustang-based items such as jimbu, dal, and buckwheat flour.
Phone: 984-1741192
Web: Thakali Ghar Aaagan
Tukche Thakali Kitchen is a family-owned Nepalese restaurant in Kathmandu that is known for its high quality and unique flavour. The whole idea was to provide tourists with an opportunity to enjoy genuine home-cooked Thakali cuisine while visiting Nepal.
The emphasis is on local ingredients found in the city, but many of the components used in the restaurant are also obtained from villages in the Kali Gandaki region, such as Tukche village. This restaurant's ambience has a Thakali feel to it, and it is the ideal environment in which to enjoy genuine Thakali cuisine.
Phone: +977 1 4412462
Web: Tukuche Thakali Kitchen
Some specials worth a try are:-
Goldeko Achar: Goldeko ko achar is a Nepalese dish made from fermented soybeans. The dish is typically served as a side dish or appetizer and is often accompanied by rice and chutney. Goldeko ko achar has a slightly sour and salty taste and is considered to be a healthy food choice.
Bhatmas/ Gundruk sadeko: Bhatmas, or black gram dal, is a type of lentil. Gundruk, or fermented turnip, is a traditional Nepali dish made from vegetables like cabbage, radish, and carrots. When these two ingredients are combined, they make a delicious and healthy snack.
Aloo Simi Jimbu: Aloo Simi Jimbu is a dish made with potatoes and a type of Nepalese herb called Jimbu. It is usually served as a side dish, but can also be eaten as a main course. Jimbu has a slightly spicy flavour, which complements the potatoes nicely.
The Dwarika's Hotel's Krishnarpan is a slow-dining Nepalese gastronomic experience. It pays homage to Nepal's vibrant culture and traditional cuisine by providing a culinary extravagance for your senses. The food is meticulously planned and grown on Dwarika's organic farms. You may pick from a six- to twenty-two-course menu that takes you on an intriguing journey through Nepalese cuisines, communities, and regions.
Phone: 4578378/4573725
Web: Krishnaarpan
Some food worth trying in their menu are:-
Ramtoria Ko Tarkari: Ramtoria Ko Tarkari is a Nepali stir-fry made with okra and spices. The dish is healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. Okra is a vegetable that is high in fibre and vitamin C, and it pairs well with the bold flavours of Nepali spices.
Sikarni: Sikarni Fresh yoghurt flavoured with cinnamon and sweetened with honey is the perfect way to start your day. The creamy texture and the sweet and spicy flavours are the perfect combinations.
Chyau Ko Sekuwa: The Chyau Ko Sekuwa roasted creamed mushroom is a Nepalese dish made with roasted mushrooms and a creamy sauce. The sauce is made with spices, onion, and garlic, and the mushrooms are roasted in a tandoor oven. This dish is served with naan bread or rice.
The restaurant serves the distinct tastes of Tukuche, a peaceful town in Nepal's Himalayas. The eatery specializes in Thakali cuisine, which is not very unique when compared to Nepalese dal bhat. It has a rustic ambience reminiscent of lodges in Tukuche's village. To add an unusual taste, try adding Prumuchhop (Thakali chili powder), a staple ingredient on the table, to any dish.
Phone: 01-5544828
Web: Thak Khola Cuisine
Some food worth a try on their menu
Aloo Anda Timur: Alu Anda Timmur is a Nepali dish made with potato and egg. It is a simple, but the flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The potato and egg are cooked together in a lightly oiled pan until they are soft and fluffy. Alu Anda Timmur is best served with rice and a simple salad.
Ghoken Set: Ghoken is a Nepali buckwheat pancake which is usually served with aloo jimbu, a hot chili and mint sauce. The sauce is made with fresh green chillies, chopped onions, chopped cilantro, salt, lemon juice and water. Ghoken is a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack option.
The restaurant is in the middle of town, and its cuisine is diverse, with Thakali and some international meals available for lunch and supper. The Thakali set is offered in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions.
Phone: 01-5523614
Related Article: Newari restaurants in Kathmandu valley
At Last,
If you're looking for a delicious Nepali food journey, be sure to check out the top 10 Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu. These establishments serve up some of the best traditional Thakali cuisines in the city, and they're perfect for those who want to explore all that this unique style of cooking has to offer.
So what are you waiting for? Start your Nepali food journey today at one of these top Thakali restaurants in Kathmandu. And don't forget to check out our other blog posts for more great Nepali dining recommendations.
Bon appetit!
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