Pokhara, Nepal’s serene lakeside city, is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its diverse and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re trekking, boating, or just relaxing, these must-try dishes and top restaurants will give Indian travelers a memorable taste of Pokhara.
1. Dal Bhat Thali
Why visit: Nepal’s national dish is wholesome, flavorful, and comes with warm hospitality — often with unlimited refills.
Highlights: – Rice, lentils, veggie curries – Meat or veg options – Served with gundruk pickle
Timing: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Try The Thakali Kitchen or Thak Khola (₹300–₹500)
2. Momos (Dumplings)
Why visit: Juicy and spicy dumplings, steamed or fried, are a street-food staple you can’t miss in Pokhara.
Highlights: – Served with chutney – Available in veg, chicken, or buff – Handcrafted fresh daily
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Try Mo2’s Delight or Potala Tibetan Restaurant (₹150–₹250 per plate)
3. Thakali Set Meal
Why visit: A richer version of Dal Bhat featuring mustard greens, fried potatoes, and meat curries — inspired by Thakali heritage.
Highlights: – Balanced flavors – Traditional taste – Often cooked in ghee
Timing: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Visit Thakali Bhanchha Ghar or Thakali Chulo (₹400–₹600)
4. Newari Khaja Set
Why visit: This Newari platter offers beaten rice, spiced potatoes, bara, and flavorful meat — a cultural favorite.
Highlights: – Spicy and crunchy – Includes chhoyla – Great for foodies
Timing: 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Try Newari Kitchen or Bota: Momo & Khaja Ghar (₹400–₹600)
5. Yomari (Sweet Dumpling)
Why visit: A Newari dessert made from rice flour stuffed with jaggery and sesame — steamed and warm.
Highlights: – Vegan-friendly – Festival favorite – Soft and gooey
Timing: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Found at Newari eateries or local bakeries (₹100–₹200)
6. Thukpa (Tibetan Noodle Soup)
Why visit: A hearty soup of noodles and vegetables or meat — perfect for chilly mornings by the lake.
Highlights: – Comfort food – Light but filling – Tibetan origin
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Try Tibetan Pema Restaurant or Monsoon Restaurant (₹200–₹300)
7. Sekuwa (Grilled Meat Skewers)
Why visit: Marinated meat grilled over charcoal — smoky, spicy, and street-style delicious.
Highlights: – Buff, chicken, or pork – Served with achar – Perfect evening snack
Timing: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Available at streetside grills or Mustang Thakali Chulo (₹250–₹400)
8. Dhido with Curry
Why visit: Traditional Nepali porridge made from buckwheat or millet, served with meat or veg curry — nutritious and hearty.
Highlights: – Gluten-free – Eaten by hand – Local favorite
Timing: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Try Dalle Restaurant or Himalayan Dhido Ghar (₹300–₹450)
9. Aloo Tama (Potato-Bamboo Shoot Curry)
Why visit: A tangy Nepali dish combining fermented bamboo shoots with potatoes and black-eyed peas.
Highlights: – Vegetarian – Bold flavor – Served with rice
Timing: 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Visit Raithaane or local homestyle diners (₹200–₹300)
10. Juju Dhau (King Curd)
Why visit: Originally from Bhaktapur, this creamy buffalo milk yogurt is now a popular dessert across Nepal.
Highlights: – Thick and sweet – Served chilled – Made fresh
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Try local dairies or dessert shops in Lakeside (₹80–₹150)
