15 Top Restaurants in Thimphu: Explore the Dining Gems of Thimphu
Bhutan’s charming capital Thimphu is a lot more than just sightseeing, it is a food paradise that can be explored only by completely immersing oneself in the local culture. And what could be a better way than delving into the flavors of the local restaurants?
Thimphu being the capital city has a plethora of Bhutanese dining options ensuring it has something to satisfy every palate. So, get the best experience out of your Bhutan trip Package by indulging in fine dining experiences at some of the best restaurants in Thimphu.
Whether you are looking for authentic Bhutanese dishes or looking for foreign dishes with a Bhutanese twist, the restaurants in Thimphu will offer it all. Also if you are wondering what is so special about Bhutan’s cuisine, it is the use of locally sourced ingredients that reflects the heritage of the country and also enhances the taste of the food.
Now let’s dive deeper into the culinary treasures of this Himalayan nation.
The culinary delights of Thimphu
Nestled amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the mighty Himalayan mountains and valleys of Bhutan, Thimphu offers a plethora of attractions along with its rich and diverse food culture. The restaurants in Thimphu are highly influenced by Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan culinary practices creating a delightful fusion of unique flavors of its own.
Bhutan’s bold and flavourful culinary traditions come from the use of its native ingredients such as local aromatic herbs and spices. Other than ingredients, traditional cooking practices and techniques also play an important role in the blend of flavors.
Every tradition has stories attached to its food likewise every authentic Bhutanese dish also has a story of its own. And once you experience this magic of flavors up close in some of its best restaurants in Thimphu you will get a better understanding of the overall ambiance of Bhutan.
Thimphu is the haven for spice lovers as one of the most defined ingredients of Bhutanese cuisine is chili pepper. So if you are ready to tantalize your taste buds with the savory delights of Bhutan let’s explore some of the top-notch places to eat in Thimphu.
List of Top Restaurants In Thimphu
1. Bhutan Kitchen
2. Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
3. Babesa Village Restaurant
4. Bukhari at Uma by COMO
5. Zombala2 Restaurant
6. AMA restaurant
7. Momo Corner
8. Silver Wok Restaurant
9. Sonam Trophel Restaurant
10. BAF Restaurant
11. Hotel New Grand
12. Pure Veg Restaurant (Shakahari)
13. Ambient Cafe
14. Chh’a Bistro
15. The Zone
Top 10 Authentic Bhutanese Restaurants In Thimphu
When exploring new destinations many travelers prioritize diving deep into the local culture and experiencing the roots of genuine indigenous traditions. And a huge part of this local culture is the local food and the palate of its people. So these authentic Bhutanese restaurants in Thimphu will take you on a voyage of discovery.
1. Bhutan Kitchen
Are you looking for a cozy restaurant that gives you the complete feel of native culture? then Bhutan Kitchen is the right place for you. The coolest thing about this place is apart from introducing you to the original local food customs the low-setting ambiance makes you feel as if you are a part of the community.
Here you will get to try authentic Bhutanese dishes, everything from those juicy flavourful momos to that hearty Phaksha paa, and of course let’s not forget those classic Ema Datshi.
Location:
Near Changlimithang Stadium, Zamtok Lam
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Kewa Datsi, Red rice with lentil soup
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a traditional setting and reasonable price.
2. Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
Among all the restaurants in Thimphu, this place is especially famous for its cuisine and cultural immersion. While the museum showcases the elements of traditional Bhutanese household, the restaurant serves your palate with its flavourful meals.
The Folk Heritage Museum restaurant comes under the fine dining restaurants in Thimphu as it satiates your hunger for knowledge while serving your soul with its savory fare.
Location:
Kawang Lam
Cuisine type
Authentic Bhutanese and fusion mostly
Signature dishes or must-try items
Sweet Buckwheat Pancakes
Special features
Beautiful ambiance, authentic Bhutanese menu, and great hospitality.
3. Babesa Village Restaurant
Have you heard about the Basesa Village restaurant? It is a hidden gem on the outskirts of the city. The rustic ambiance and warm hospitality of the place serve you local delicacies with a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city center.
Their menu offers everything from beverages such as Ara (rice wine) and Suja (butter tea) to seasoned vegetables to non-vegetarian delicacies such as Seekam Paa.
Location:
Near Paro Thimphu Highway
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Lom and Mengay, a Bhutanese Pizza
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a traditional setting.
4. Bukhari at Uma by COMO
Do you want to dine in style with breathtaking mountain views, look no further than Bukhari at Uma by COMO. With a classy, cozy interior this place offers you the best fusion of Bhutanese and International flavors.
What makes Bhukari a must-visit restaurant in Thimphu is the wholesome experience of elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and delectable cuisine. Their menu stands out with its fusion dishes such as Angus sirloin steak with sweet onion, honey-glazed smoked chicken salad with baby potatoes, etc.
Location:
Paro Town, Airport Area
Cuisine type
Classic and Fusion dishes
Signature dishes or must-try items
Bumthang Gouda, Jasha Dhang Yesey pega Hentsey
Special features
Serves both authentic and international fusion dishes in a 5-star ambiance amidst nature.
5. Zombala2 Restaurant
If you don’t want to go far from the bustling heart of Thimphu to experience Bhutan’s native dishes then head to Zombala2 restaurant of Bhutan right away. It’s a great place to enjoy authentic meals with family and friends. Its classic dishes made from locally sourced organic ingredients make it one of the best places to eat in Thimphu. Its menu includes the most common local dishes such as Ema Datshi and Phaksha Paa
Location:
Norzin Lam Thimphu
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, fast food, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Momos, Thuk noodles, and beef paa.
Special features
Cozy setting and best for authentic fast food.
6. AMA restaurant
While we go backpacking to Bhutan or somewhere else we often tend to miss our comfort meals or the familiar taste of home-cooked meals. If you too are looking to get the taste of mom’s cooking with a Bhutanese twist, this place is the perfect dining option for you. Its menu, cozy vibe, and use of healthy ingredients make it one of the best restaurants in Thimphu
Location:
Opposite Lugar Theatre, Thimphu
Cuisine type
Serves Thai, Korean, Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, continental, and many fusion flavors.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Sweet and sour chicken with Thai rice.
Special features
Serves both Thai, Korean, Bhutanese, Indian, Chinese, continental, and many fusion flavors.
7. Momo Corner
If you are on a quest to taste Street food in Bhutan then you absolutely can’t miss authentic Bhutanese dumplings. Located in Hejo Lam of Thimphu this place serves you a variety of steamed or fried dumplings and noodles. If you are visiting Bhutan tasting Thimhu’s iconic mouthwatering dumplings at Momo Corner is a must.
Location:
Near Lhadrong Stop, Hejo Lam
Cuisine type
Momos/ dumplings
Signature dishes or must-try items
Authentic Bhutanese steamed momo
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian momos and noodles.
8. Silver Wok Restaurant
While you are wandering around in search of some of the best hotels and restaurants to taste authentic food, this place brims with authenticity. Whether you are looking for a private setting or a city view, Silver Wok restaurant offers it all with a delectable menu which makes it one of the best places to eat in Thimphu.
Location:
Norzin Lam 1, Thimphu
Cuisine type
Authentic Bhutanese and International cuisines.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Rice with dried pork and cheesy chilis.
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a beautiful setting.
9. Sonam Trophel Restaurant
Sometimes restaurants are not just about food but more about creating lasting memories and getting the feel of immersing in a culture. When you are in Soman Trophel Restaurant you get to experience the essence of Bhutanese culture through its amazing setting and warm hospitality. Running for more than 20 years this place gives you the feel of one of the fine dining restaurants in Thimphu
Location:
Near Changlimithang Stadium, Zamtok Lam
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Kewa Datsi, Red rice with lentil soup
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a traditional setting and reasonable price.
10. BAF (Bhutanese Authentic Food) Restaurant
If you are looking to explore a variety of authentic options while enjoying the calm and affordable range then this is the right place for you.
Now the most important question is, What makes it one of the best restaurants in Thimphu? It’s the budget-friendly menu they offer.
It is perfect for people who are looking to enjoy good Bhutanese food on a pocket-friendly budget. Located in Phendey Lam this place won’t disappoint you in terms of good food.
Location:
38b Phendey Lam, Thimphu
Cuisine type
Bhutanese cuisine
Signature dishes or must-try items
Ema Datsi
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a traditional setting and reasonable price.
Top 5 Vegetarian Restaurants in Thimphu
1. Hotel New Grand
If you are looking for a pure vegetarian restaurant to have your meal, Hotel New Grand can be the best choice for you. Some of its specialties include serving great cocktails, so if you are a beverage enthusiast this vegetarian restaurant in Thimphu will quench your thirst.
Location:
Norzin Lam 1, Building number 15, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cuisine type
Bhutanese and International.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Ema Datsi and Indian cuisine
Special features
Great hospitality and palatable food.
2. Pure Veg Restaurant (Shakahari)
This place is one of the best places to satiate your vegetarian palate where you will get to enjoy the flavors of Bhutanese goodness in purely vegetarian dishes. They offer a wide range of delicacies from traditional Bhutanese vegetarian specialties to pasta, salads, and even some fusion dishes.
Location:
Wangchuu Lam, Babesa-Thimphu Expressway
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Veg Jasha Maroo
Special features
Serves purely veg menu.
3. Ambient Cafe
Ambient Cafe caters to a variety of tastes and preferences so if you are looking for a vegetarian menu this place is perfect for you. Whether you want a light lunch or a filling vegetarian dinner Ambient Cafe won’t disappoint you.
Other than travelling around having a taste of authentic Bhutanese dishes should be on your bucket list of things to do in Bhutan.
Location:
Nordzin Lam, Thimphu
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Veg dumplings with soup.
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a cozy setting.
4. Chh’a Bistro
From mouth-watering vegetable momos to Tofu stir fry dishes this place offers a wide array of vegetarian dishes. Its meat-free dishes burst with delectable flavors of local herbs and spices making it one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Thimphu.
So whether you are a dedicated vegetarian or simply craving meatless food then this is the right place for you.
Location:
Wangchhu Lam, Near Kashitshawa bus stop
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Tofu stir-fry with Salad
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in a traditional setting and reasonable price.
5. The Zone
Located around the busy corner this place is perfect if you are looking for an extensive vegetarian menu with a variety of options. From flavourful vegetable curries to hearty salads prepared from fresh ingredients, you will get it all here in The Zone. One of the coolest things about this place that makes it one of the top restaurants in Thimphu is its fusion of Bhutanese dishes with global cuisine.
Location:
Chang Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cuisine type
Bhutanese, international, fusion, etc.
Signature dishes or must-try items
Tofu curry and white rice with lentil soup.
Special features
Serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Bhutanese and International dishes.
What types of cuisine can I find in Thimphu restaurants?
Other than Bhutanese dishes restaurants in Thimphu also serve a wide range of Indian, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Some of the restaurants also serve western palate such as Italian dishes are also very prominent in Thimphu.
Are there vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Thimphu?
Yes, there are vegetarian restaurants in Thimphu as mentioned above. Some of them are purely vegetarian some others have a vegetarian menu along with non-vegetarian dishes.
What is a must-try traditional dish in Thimphu?
Some of must must-try traditional dishes of Thimphu are Ema Datshi, Phaksha Paa, Jasha Maroo, Momos, and many more.
Do restaurants in Thimphu serve alcoholic beverages?
Although Bhutan is traditionally known for its strict rules around alcoholic beverages like limited hours of sales and high taxes still you can find alcoholic beverages in restaurants and bars catering to locals and tourists.
