Thakali Restaurants in Kathmandu
Thakali Khana, a traditional dish originating from the Thakali community in Nepal, is celebrated for its robust flavors, generous portions, and cultural significance. Emerging from the Mustang and Manang districts, this cuisine has garnered popularity across Nepal and beyond for its distinct spice blends, herbal infusions, and culinary techniques.
A standout offering in Thakali cuisine is the Thakali Khana Set, a comprehensive meal featuring rice, lentil soup (dal), assorted vegetable curries (tarkari), pickles (achar), and occasionally meat or fish. Renowned for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, each element of the Thakali Khana Set complements the others, resulting in a deeply satisfying and nourishing dining experience.
The preparation methods often involve traditional techniques, such as cooking over an open flame or utilizing wood-fired stoves, imparting a distinct smokiness to the dishes.
Thakali Food Composition
With a rainbow of colors, including pale green dal, green leafy vegetables, rich red meat, rice (which is white), and chutneys like chap and Golbheda ko chutney (fresh tomato pickle), Thakali Thali is appealing not only in flavor but also in appearance.
1. Rice (Bhaat) – The most typical ingredient in Nepalese cuisine is rice. Both the wealthy and the poor, young and old, consume it. There are numerous proverbs concerning rice, which has come to represent a key component of Nepalese culture. Gently boiled long-grain white basmati rice is served fluffy.
2. Lentil Soup (Dal)
Dal is a filling dish that is rich in vitamins, fiber, and protein. Dal can also serve as the foundation for stew or curry preparations. Red, brown,green, and yellow lentils are among the many colors and flavors of dals. Dal typically includes vegetables including potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. Dal is frequently made into a soup or curry and consumed with rice or bread.
The lentils are first cooked until they are tender, and then they are fried in oil with herbs and spices including cumin, ginger, and mustard seeds. Just before serving, aromatic Jimbu is added to the soup along with some heated ghee in a metal spoon.
3. Spicy Fried Potatoes (Aalu Tareko) – For millennia, potatoes have been a staple diet in many civilizations, and for good reason. They are affordable, robust, and adaptable. Aalu Tareko is a fried potato dish cooked with herbs and spices in Nepal. The potatoes are peeled and then sliced thinly before being fried in oil till golden brown. To further customize the flavor, they are then seasoned with salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
Jimbu, a Nepalese herb that grows in Mustang, is frequently used as a garnish on spicy fried potatoes. The potato receives a small amount of spiciness from jimbu.
4. Spinach (Sag) – Popular Thakali and Nepali vegetable dishes include sag. Spinach or other leafy greens are simmered with herbs and spices to make it. Although there are numerous methods to serve sag, it is typically fried with oil, garlic, and onions. Sag can be a side dish or a component of a main dish.
5. Meat Either Chicken or Goat (Mutton) – Famous meat dishes in Thakali cuisine include chicken, goat, and mutton. The most common meat used in thakali cookery is chicken, which is either grilled, fried, or cooked in a curry sauce.
Both residents and visitors enjoy each because of its distinctive flavor and texture. Although there are several ways to prepare it, stewing and grilling are the most common.
6. Fresh Tomato Relish (Golbheda ko achar) – A common dish in Nepalese Thakali cuisine is tomato relish. Fresh tomatoes are cooked with seasonings and spices to create this meal, which is often presented as a condiment or side dish. The relish can be used as a sauce and has a sour, acidic flavor.
7. Dessert Fermented Rice (Phopké) – Phopké is a rice-based dessert that is one of the most well-known dishes in Thakali cuisine. After being thoroughly cooked to create a thick paste, the rice is combined with milk and sugar and allowed to ferment for a number of days.
Yogurt is frequently placed on top of phopké when it is served. It is considered a luxury to serve this dish during important occasions like weddings and religious functions.
Best Thakali Restaurants in Kathmandu
Your mouth must be watering after reading all of these things about Thakali cuisine. Therefore, if you’re visiting Nepal, you would want to know where to find the best Thakali Khana. So, let’s begin the formal tour of the most popular thakali eateries serving the tastiest food.
#1 D Moksha Mustang Thakali | Gyaneshwor, Kathmandu
Highly Recommended
Hands down to the best thakali khana in Kathmandu. D Moksha Mustang Thakali Restaurant and Bar, situated in the bustling city of Kathmandu, is a paradise for aficionados of Thakali cuisine. This restaurant offers a chance to indulge in the authentic flavors of Nepal’s culinary legacy, all within the lively atmosphere of the city center.
D Moksha Mustang Thakali offers authentic Nepali cuisine alongside a selection of international dishes. Founded on the principle of “Simple good food and simple easy living,” this restaurant opened its doors in 2080 BS within a historic building dating back 90 years, now restored to preserve its original charm.
The architectural style and classic furnishings of this traditional building provide a unique backdrop for an exceptional dining experience. With a capacity of 136 diners and a 100-seat banquet hall, the restaurant also features the Marpha Bar on its second floor. Created by two young entrepreneurs, the establishment aims to promote Nepali culinary traditions and beverages.
2# Mantra Thakali | Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur
An original dish prepared at Bagaan Thakali uses organic ingredients and regional Nepalese flavors. They provide delicious dishes on time. Their chef’s original concept comprises a variety of regional, national, and global cuisines. You can sample a wide variety of delicacies at Bagaan Thakali.
Also Read: Popular Newari Food in Kathmandu
3# Bagaan Thakali Kitchen | Thamel
Bagaan Thakali was established by the Sherchan family, hailing from the picturesque Thak-Khola village in the stunning Mustang District.
The restaurant, named Bagaan, which translates to “garden of flowers,” is a traditional Thakali eatery.
The Thakali Khana Set (meal) is renowned across Nepal for its exquisite taste and the variety of portions served as a single meal.
An original dish prepared at Bagaan Thakali uses organic ingredients and regional Nepalese flavors. They provide delicious dishes on time.
Their chef’s original concept comprises a variety of regional, national, and global cuisines. You can sample a wide variety of delicacies at Bagaan Thakali.
4# T3 Thakali & Multi Food Galery, Airport Gate
You are invited byT3 Thakali to travel back in time and see Nepal’s rich old architectural, cultural, and gastronomic history. Since the owners of this restaurant have a great deal of respect for Nepalese culture and ethnicity, they work hard to preserve it so that you can eat Thakali food from their organic farm while tasting the flavor of Nepalese cuisine. They do not utilize or promote plastic products and are environmentally friendly.
Bhojan Griha, Putalisadak
You are invited by Bhojan Griha to travel back in time and see Nepal’s rich old architectural, cultural, and gastronomic history. Since the owners of this restaurant have a great deal of respect for Nepalese culture and ethnicity, they work hard to preserve it so that you can eat Thakali food from their organic farm while tasting the flavor of Nepalese cuisine. They do not utilize or promote plastic products and are environmentally friendly.
Timur Thakali Kitchen, Dhumbarahi
Lete was given the name of the residents’ home village in Mustang. They are among the best in the area and offer authentic Thakali food. Popular dishes include potato and vegetable curries made with Jimbu and Gundruk ko achar. They also offer Mula Thepe Achar, one of the most well-known delicacies in Thakali cuisine.
Lete Thakali Kitchen, Dhumbarahi
Lete was given the name of the residents’ home village in Mustang. They are among the best in the area and offer authentic Thakali food. Popular dishes include potato and vegetable curries made with Jimbu and Gundruk ko achar. They also offer Mula Thepe Achar, one of the most well-known delicacies in Thakali cuisine.
Jimbu Thakali, Jhamsikhel
Jimbu Thakali is a traditional Thakali restaurant named after the Himalayan herb called jimbu. The Thakali Khana Set, a widely celebrated meal in Nepal, is renowned for its irresistible taste and the variety of portions offered.
Owner Vivek Sherchan’s family, originally from Thak-Khola Village in the Mustang District, had a desire to introduce Thakali Khana to Nepalese and tourists ever since he began working in hospitality. At Jimbu Thakali, you will experience a homely ambiance, Thakali meals, and appetizers that showcase the richness of Himalayan flavors, along with a welcoming staff.
The rustic ambiance and hearty Thakali meals and drinks that are a testament to the wealth of the Himalayas may be found at Jimbu Thakali. This eatery is a typical Thakali establishment and is named for the Himalayan herb Jimbu. Whatever your preferred cuisine, the area has something to offer everyone. You might choose to eat delectable Thakali food or a standard American meal.
Thak Khola Thakali, New Baneshwor
Thak Khola Thakali, situated in New Baneshwor, stands out as a favored spot for genuine Thakali delicacies in Kathmandu, Nepal. Offering an array of traditional Thakali dishes, including the renowned Thakali Khana Set, the restaurant’s menu typically features rice, lentil soup (dal), assorted vegetable curries (tarkari), pickles (achar), and optionally, meat or fish.
The restaurant derives its name from the Thak Khola village in the Mustang District, celebrated for its Thakali community and culinary customs. Thak Khola Thakali endeavors to transport the authentic flavors of Thakali cuisine from this locale to the heart of Kathmandu, ensuring both locals and tourists savor an authentic taste of Nepal’s culinary legacy.
Nilgiri Thakali Delights, Tangal
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.
Thakali Ghar Aaagan, Bansbari
Given that it is tastefully arranged to provide the impression of a Thakali house or kitchen, this is the other location that serves delicious Thakali cuisine. On the menu of the restaurant is fried chhurpi, which appears to be very strange. Additionally, they have a modest store where you may buy foods made in Mustang, such jimbu, dal, and buckwheat flour.
Tukuche Thakali Kitchen, Gairidhara
In Kathmandu, there is a family-run Nepalese restaurant called Tukche Thakali Kitchen, which is renowned for its excellent food and distinctive flavor. The goal was to provide visitors the chance to sample authentic, home-cooked Thakali food while they were in Nepal.
Krishnaarpan, Battisputali
Krishnarpan is a slow-eating Nepalese dining experience offered by The Dwarika’s Hotel. By offering a sensory extravaganza, it pays homage to Nepal’s rich culture and traditional cuisine. On Dwarika’s organic farms, the food is carefully cultivated and planned. A six- to twenty-two-course meal that takes you on an enthralling tour of Nepalese cuisines, communities, and locations is available to you.
Thak Khola Cuisine, Dhobi Ghat
The eatery offers the distinctive flavors of Tukuche, a tranquil village in the Himalayas of Nepal. The restaurant specializes in Thakali food, which is similar to Nepalese dal bhat and not very distinctive. Its atmosphere is rural and evokes the lodges in Tukuche’s village. Prumuchhop (Thakali chili powder), a common element on the table, can give any dish a unique flavor.
Thasang Thakali Kitchen, Jawalakhel
The restaurant is located in the center of town and offers a variety of lunch and dinner options, including Thakali and some international dishes. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian variations of the Thakali set are available.
Key Takeaway | Best Thakali Restaurants in Kathmandu
To sum up, Thakali Khana in Kathmandu provides a culinary voyage into the depths of Nepal’s flavorful gastronomic legacy. Its vivid tastes, traditional culinary methods, and welcoming service transcend mere dining; it’s an encounter that gratifies the senses and creates enduring memories for all who indulge.
More than just a place to eat, Thakali Restaurants embodies a festivity of Nepal’s abundant culinary legacy, encouraging you to relish the very essence of this distinctive culture with every delectable bite.
