Best Foods in Kathmandu: Top 20 Must-Try Traditional & Street Dishes
Kathmandu is a city where food is not just something you eat, it’s part of everyday life, culture, and celebration. From small street stalls to traditional Newari kitchens, every corner and alleys of the city has something delicious to offer.
If you’re visiting Kathmandu or even if you live here and want to explore local flavors, this list covers the best foods in Kathmandu you should definitely try, along with an idea of how much they usually cost.
1. Bara (Wo – Lentil Pancake):
Image: Wo Newari Lentil Pancakes
Bara is one of the most popular Newari snacks in Kathmandu. It’s made from lentils and fried until crispy outside but soft inside. Some versions come with egg or minced meat on top, making it even tastier. Best enjoyed hot.
Estimated Price: NPR 80 – 150
2. Chatamari:
Image: Chatamari
Chatamari is often called the Nepali version of pizza. It’s a thin rice-flour base topped with egg, meat, vegetables, and spices. Light but full of flavor, it’s a must-try if you want to taste authentic Newari food.
Estimated Price: NPR 120 – 250
3. Gwaramari:
Image: Gwaramari Newari Food
Gwaramari is a deep-fried bread snack that’s crunchy outside and soft inside. It’s usually eaten with chickpea curry and is very common in old Kathmandu areas like Asan. Simple, filling, and comforting.
Estimated Price: NPR 50 – 100
4. Buff Choila:
Image: Buff Choyela
Buff choila is spicy grilled buffalo meat mixed with traditional spices and mustard oil. It has a smoky flavor and a strong kick. This dish truly represents Newari cuisine and is usually eaten with beaten rice.
Estimated Price: NPR 250 – 450
5. Sel Roti:
Image: Selroti
Sel roti is a sweet, ring-shaped rice bread. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. Although it’s mostly made during festivals, you can still find it in local shops and tea stalls.
Estimated Price: NPR 30 – 60
6. Dal Bhat Tarkari:
Image: Dal-Bhaat
Dal bhat is the most common meal in Nepal. It includes rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, pickle, and sometimes meat. It’s healthy, filling, and gives you energy for the whole day.
Estimated Price: NPR 250 – 500
7. Momo (Veg, Buff, Chicken):
Image: Chicken omo
Momo is everyone’s favorite in Kathmandu. These dumplings are filled with vegetables or meat and served with spicy sauce. Buff momo is the most popular among locals, but veg and chicken versions are equally loved.
Estimated Price: NPR 120 – 250
8. Pork & Buff Sekuwa:
Image: Pork Sekuwa
Sekuwa is meat grilled over charcoal and seasoned with local spices. Pork and buff sekuwa are especially popular in Kathmandu. Smoky, juicy, and best enjoyed in the evening with friends.
Estimated Price: NPR 300 – 600
9. Lassi:
Image: Lassi
Lassi is a refreshing yogurt-based drink. It’s thick, creamy, and perfect after eating spicy food. You can find both sweet and salted versions around the city.
Estimated Price: NPR 80 – 150
10. Juju Dhau (King Curd):
Image: Juju Dhau
Juju dhau is a rich and creamy yogurt made from buffalo milk. It’s slightly sweet and very smooth. Originally from Bhaktapur, but easily found in Kathmandu too.
Estimated Price: NPR 120 – 200
11. Thukpa:
Image: Thukpa
Thukpa is a warm noodle soup with vegetables or meat. It’s filling and comforting, especially during cold days. You’ll find great thukpa around Boudha and Swayambhu areas.
Estimated Price: NPR 180 – 350
12. Aloo Tama:
Image: Aloo Tama
Aloo tama is a traditional Nepali curry made with potatoes and fermented bamboo shoots. It has a tangy and slightly sour taste that many locals love.
Estimated Price: NPR 200 – 350
13. Yomari:
Image: Chaku Yomari
Yomari is a steamed rice dumpling filled with sweet molasses or milk solids. It’s traditionally eaten during Yomari Punhi but is now available in many Newari restaurants.
Estimated Price: NPR 80 – 150
14. Kachila:
Image: Kachila
Kachila is finely minced raw buffalo meat mixed with spices. It’s a traditional Newari dish and usually tried by people who enjoy strong, authentic flavors.
Estimated Price: NPR 300 – 500
15. Samay Baji Set:
Image: Newari Khaja Set
Samay baji is a full Newari set that includes beaten rice, bara, choila, egg, pickles, and more. If you want to experience many Newari dishes at once, this is the best choice.
Estimated Price: NPR 450 – 800
16. Nepali-Style Chowmein:
Image: Chowmin Nepali
Kathmandu chowmein is spicy, slightly oily, and very addictive. It’s one of the most common street foods, especially popular among students.
Estimated Price: NPR 120 – 200
17. Chatpate:
Image: Chatpatey
Chatpate is a spicy and tangy street snack made with puffed rice, noodles, onions, chili, and lemon. Every vendor has their own style, which makes it fun to try in different places.
Estimated Price: NPR 50 – 100
18. Tongba:
Image: Tongba
Tongba is a traditional fermented millet drink served warm. It’s popular in cold weather and gives a unique cultural experience.
Estimated Price: NPR 300 – 600
19. Nepali Milk Tea (Chiya):
Image: Nepali Chaya
Chiya is part of daily life in Kathmandu. Sweet, milky, and slightly spiced, it’s enjoyed in the morning, during breaks, or while chatting with friends.
Estimated Price: NPR 25 – 60
20. Aaila:
Image: Aaila Newar Alchohol
Aaila is a traditional homemade Newari alcoholic drink. Strong and symbolic, it’s usually served during festivals and special occasions.
Kathmandu’s food scene is simple, bold, and full of character. From spicy street snacks to traditional Newari meals, every dish has a story to tell. To truly understand the city, don’t just visit places but Taste The Kathmandu.
Now imagine enjoying these local flavors while exploring ancient cities, scenic villages, and peaceful mountain landscapes. With Family Adventure Treks, you experience Nepal beyond sightseeing through real culture, real food, and memories that stay with you long after the journey ends.
