Kathmandu is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Not just that, the city boasts diverse and rich cuisines that will hook any traveler’s heart. A perfect fusion of culture and cooking, Nepali traditional cuisines will be something you have not tried before.
Moreover, Kathmandu’s eateries and restaurants offer diverse traditional, Asian, and international menu options that will make any foreigner feel at home. As a local, I recommend visitors try our traditional Nepali thali, Nepalese people’s favorite momos, delicious Newari cuisine, and tasty street food. Hmm, but where do you enjoy these food options?
Fret not; we have handpicked the best restaurants in Kathmandu, known for their good food and fine dining experience.
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Traditional Restaurants in Kathmandu
You must try authentic Nepali cuisine while visiting Nepal. They are mouthwateringly delicious, healthy, and visually appealing. Moreover, you can try them in the following restaurants in Kathmandu.
The Chimney Restaurant
(Source: Official Instagram)
If you dine in a classy setting, you must choose The Chimney Restaurant. Located in the legendary Hotel Yak and Yeti, this establishment’s ancient Nepali architecture gives you a feeling of royalty. You will enjoy the splendor of Nepali art with your food.
The eatery’s other exciting aspect is its well-priced menu. The prices are worth what you eat and experience. Furthermore, the place offers classic and modern dishes such as momos, Chicken ala Kiev, Chicken Stroganoff, Russian borscht, and Risotto Milanese.
No meal is complete without a drink. The classy establishment offers non-alcoholic, alcoholic, and signature concoctions. Speaking of the latter, you should try Chai Fashioned, a bitter homemade masala chai decoction.
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
- Location: Hotel Yak & Yeti, Durbar Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Instagram
Nepali Chulo
Are you looking for a good Newari restaurant in Kathmandu? Then, Nepali Chulo should be your destination. The place offers homemade traditional Nepali and Newari cuisines using old recipes. Moreover, the ingredients are organic and delivered straight from their local garden.
Nepali Chulo strives to provide a dining experience in Newari and Nepali households. As such, they have three sitting styles: sitting on the floor inside, sitting on the high chair inside, and sitting on the high chair on the terrace.
In the Newari community, people dine while sitting side-by-side on the floor. The room’s center is empty for servers and other guests to pass through. Similarly, customers can dine while sitting on the floor and enjoying traditional cultural shows in Nepali Chulo.
If you want to learn more about the restaurant, we suggest you experience it first-hand. Your visit won’t be in vain, and you will leave Nepali Chulo satisfied.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Toran Restaurant
Another restaurant with impressive architectural decor gracing our list is Toran Restaurant. It is at the Dwarika’s Hotel, a property of ancient Kathmandu woodwork and intricate wood carvings. It is a Newari architectural masterpiece.
Now, you can probably imagine how dining in this finest establishment will feel like. To give you a demo, you will enjoy your meals in Dwarika’s courtyards overlooking the impressive hotel building and decor. You will be mesmerized by the hotel’s dedication to even the tiniest detail.
Also, the establishment offers multi-cuisine as well as traditional Nepali dishes. So, visitors can enjoy their country’s food and try authentic Nepali dishes. Overall, they will experience a peaceful atmosphere and fine dining service.
- Opening Hours: Until 11 PM (for non-guests), 24 Hours (for guests)
- Location: The Dwarika’s Hotel, Battisputali, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website
Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant
Did you know the Dwarika’s Hotel houses not one but three restaurants? Yes, it does, and Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant is one of them.
Krishnarpan provides the Nepali traditional dining experience housed in a marvelous architectural building. It is known for its delicious 6-course Nepali meal. The establishment’s signature dish is so good that you might have to make a reservation prior.
The guests receive a customized dinner menu, which includes the basic 6-course meal, 9-course meal, and goes up to 22-course meal. Each menu is made using old recipes and gives diners the taste of authentic Nepali cuisine.
If you are on a food tour in Kathmandu, Krishnarpan Nepali Restaurant must be on your go-to list. You will taste delicious food, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and get a fine dining experience.
- Opening Hours: 6 PM – 11 PM
- Location: The Dwarika’s Hotel, Battisputali, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website
Spize
To enjoy authentic Nepalese cuisine in an ambiance atmosphere, you must visit Spize restaurant at Thamel, Kathmandu. The place is famous for its tasty Nepali dishes and nice hospitality.
Local favorites of Spize are momos, Dal Bhat, Karnali Organi Thali, and Newari set. Primarily specializing in Nepali cuisine, the establishment provides vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
What’s more, Spize’s food is appropriately priced. Its budget-friendly nature has led to its soaring popularity among locals and tourists. You might not get your food any cheaper than here at Spize.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 9 PM
- Location: Bhagabati Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Yangling Tibetan Restaurant
Nepali cuisine is the combination of traditional Nepali recipes that are based upon Nepal’s multiple ethnicities, heritage, and cultural diversity. Tibetan cuisine is so famous in Nepal that it has become part of Nepali culture.
Paying homage to Tibetan-Nepali cuisine, Yangling Tibetan Restaurant has been in the business in Kathmandu for several years. The small family-run establishment is full of customers, and you must arrive early to secure a table.
According to former guests and regular customers, Yangling’s chili momos, especially the chicken version, are a must-have item. The thick chili sauce will leave anyone coming back for more. Furthermore, their chowmein and Tibetan salted butter tea are also fan favorites.
So, would you like to taste Yangling Tibetan red chili sauce dipped momos? If you want, you must head over now to enjoy this delicious food.
- Opening Hours: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Location: Kaldhara Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Facebook
Italian Restaurants In Kathmandu
The deliciousness and taste of Italian cuisine are out of this world. However, finding an authentic Italian establishment in other countries besides Italy is challenging. Well, fret not; Kathmandu houses several highly-rated Italian eateries where you can satisfy your cravings.
Fire And Ice Pizzeria
Are you searching for an authentic pizza hub in Kathmandu? Then, you should go to the Fire And Ice Pizzeria at Thamel, Kathmandu. This establishment has been running since 1995 and boasts nearly three decades of expertise.
Fire and Ice is a family-run establishment that also has branches in India. It is a famous pizzeria among locals and tourists in Kathmandu. Furthermore, the pizzeria uses authentic Italian ingredients and recipes to make their dishes, giving customers a homemade taste.
Guests can order Italian cuisine, including pizzas, pasta, risotto, salads, and lasagna. They should try the Fire and Ice signature pizza and Pizza Erotica. Both pizzas are finger-licking good.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Thamel And Sanepa
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Marco Polo Restaurant
One can never get tired of Italian cuisine. So, we are adding another establishment in Kathmandu specializing in serving classic Italian dishes, i.e., Marco Polo Restaurant. It is run by Italian chef Rubiolo Battista, whose authentic homemade recipes have contributed to the property’s success.
The restaurant offers diverse Italian cuisine, from pizzas and pasta to delicious desserts like Tiramisu, Lat Brule, and Panacotta. It might be surprising to know that the restaurant’s signature dish is Bada Khana, a Nepali traditional dish.
Bada Khana includes food varieties like Pulao, Aloo Kapetera, Mutton Kabab, Badel Tareko, fish fry, salad, and dry pickle. Seeing Nepali dishes being served in an Italian establishment is quite a surprise.
To find out if the Marco Polo Restaurant’s signature dish is as good as its Italian cuisine, you must head over there now and try this food.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Location: 1st Floor Chhaya Center Bhagwanbahal, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Graveaty Restaurant & Bar
(Source: Official Instagram)
Isn’t it challenging to find good restaurants that serve Italian cuisine in Kathmandu? Although several places offer Italian dishes, only a few provide authentic Italian cuisine that tastes as fine as it does back in Italy.
For those looking to enjoy authentic Italian flavor, Graveaty Restaurant & Bar will satisfy your palate. They offer classic menus, including risotto, lasagna, tiramisu, pizzas, and pasta. Their food is great and has primarily received positive reviews.
Aside from Italian cuisine, the establishment provides Asian and Nepali dishes. Per one reviewer, it offers delicious momos in veg and non-veg options. Finally, the place provides breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner, and late-night meals.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 11 PM
- Location: Chhusya Galli, Jyatha, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Instagram
Famous Restaurants & Bars in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is a hub of some of Nepal’s finest restaurants and bars. These establishments offer multicuisine, a good atmosphere, and a hospitable environment.
The Old House Restaurant & Bar
(Source: Official Facebook)
A perfect dining experience is not just about having good food. It also includes ambiance, i.e., restaurants’ atmosphere and character. If you want to dine in an artistic environment, The Old House Restaurant & Bar is where you should be.
The place’s modern and classic decor provides diners with a serene and peaceful ambiance. The traditional architecture and woodcrafts that have gone modern remodeling adorn the place. It will take diners a step back in time to the ancient Newari period. Furthermore, previous customers have highly rated the restaurant’s beautiful setting.
The establishment offers Asian, French, Newari, and Tibetan cuisines. Among other items on the menu, you should go for momos. Available in veg and non-veg options, these delicious and mouth-watering momos will leave you coming back for more. Yum!
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 9:30
- Location: Durbar Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Le Sherpa
Another renowned Kathmandu restaurant, Le Sherpa, is a perfect place to take your date. It is a cozy garden-themed establishment in Lazimpat, surrounded by lush greeneries. It offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere suitable for any couple.
Le Sherpa specializes in French cuisine, offering an array of French dishes such as French Onion Soup, French choux pastry ball filling, and more. It also offers International and traditional cuisines with impressive wine and liquor choices.
Also, the restaurant has special menus for special days like Valentine’s Day. It includes a 5-course dinner with appetizers, a main course, and welcome drinks. The lovebirds can end their Valentine’s date with a delicious Strawberry Sabayon.
So, would you like to experience the finest dining experience at Le Sherpa in Kathmandu?
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Sam’s Bar & Restaurant
Thamel has an impressive number of hotels and restaurants, among which Sam’s Bar & Restaurant offers the finest culinary experience. Located in the heart of Kathmandu, Sam’s Bar is in the bustling Thamel Street, where nights are always young.
If you want to enjoy bar-hopping or have a nice drink in the evenings, you should hit Sam’s Bar. It is a great place to relax, unwind, and enjoy drinks. Furthermore, the drinks here are affordable and won’t dent your wallet.
Sam’s Bar has been praised as the best place to have excellent drinks. You will enjoy a night full of ambiance with helpful staff catering to your every need. Hence, this establishment is highly recommended for everyone looking to enjoy nightlife in Kathmandu.
- Opening Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook
Melrose Restaurant & Bar
(Source: Official Instagram)
Another renowned establishment in Thamel, Melrose Restaurant & Bar, provides the finest dining experience. If you are tired of bustling Thamel streets and want to enjoy a peaceful dining atmosphere, Melrose must be your ultimate destination.
The establishment has a beautiful courtyard garden where you can enjoy alfresco dining. Its lush garden and greeneries provide a peaceful and serene ambiance. What’s more, the food is equally good and satisfying.
The establishment offers international, Asian, Nepali, and European cuisine. Also, let’s not forget beer. Drinking beer and having lunch on a sunny day at Melrose will be refreshing.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM
- Location: Amrit Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Instagram
Lavie Garden Restaurant
(Source: Booking.com)
Lavie Garden Restaurant is a garden-themed restaurant known for its quality food and ambiance atmosphere. Located in Phulbari Rod, Bouddha, it provides a getaway from the bustling city life.
The garden restaurant offers multi-cuisine dishes, including Nepali, Indian, Thai, European, and Continental. Guests can enjoy their meals surrounded by lush gardens and greeneries. They can also have food indoors, on the terrace, and balconies.
Lavie Garden Restaurant is located at the Lavi Garden Restaurant and Residence. As such, visitors can book rooms for overnight or days at the residence. To compare prices, you can head over to Booking.com.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Phulbari Road, House No 163, Bouddha, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Nepalaya Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Feel bored dining outdoors and indoors? Why not experience dining on the rooftop? Hotel Nepalaya’s Nepalaya Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is called the ‘temple of heaven’ due to its mesmerizing floral surroundings.
Guests can bask under the sun and enjoy city views while dining at the Nepalaya Rooftop Restaurant. They can see the Swayambhunath temple, the clock tower, Langtang Mountain, and Ganesh Mountain. They also get spectacular views of cedar forests and the Kathmandu Valley.
The establishment offers vegan, vegetarian, and Ayurvedic food. It also offers Nepali, Asian, Continental, and Indian dishes. Also, if you want to enjoy dining more than once, you can book a room at Hotel Nepalaya at Booking.com. You will get to enjoy good food throughout your stay.
- Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM
- Location: Kwabahal, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Instagram
Kathmandu Grill Restaurant & Wine Bar
Another of the finest Thamel establishments, Kathmandu Grill Restaurant & Bar, is open seven days a week. It offers indoor and outdoor dining services and is a fantastic breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot.
As its name suggests, the restaurant specializes in grilled dishes. Its grilled signature items include grilled pork chops, grilled chicken thighs, grilled trout, and grilled tenderloin sekwar. Furthermore, it offers Chinese, Indian, and Italian cuisine.
Likewise, the bar offers various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. It has an impressive beer and whiskey collection. The mocktails and cocktails are also must-try drinks.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 11 PM
- Location: Satghumti, Chaksibari Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Rox Restaurant
(Source: Hyatt Regency Facebook)
If you choose to dine in luxury in Kathmandu, Hyatt Regency’s Rox Restaurant is what you must be looking for. The hotel’s signature restaurant’s interior decor is stunning and brimming with luxury and splendor. Moreover, the hotel offers alfresco dining; guests can enjoy their meals in the garden.
The establishment specializes in Italian and multi-cuisines. You can enjoy food at the restaurant or order takeaway and home delivery. There are multiple options from Rox’s food, Breakfast, wine, and beverage menus.
Likewise, Rox provides multiple dining options, from Breakfast, Lunch, and Brunches to all-day dining and wine dinners. This place is good for having romantic dinners, celebration dinners, business meetings, and friends get-togethers. Don’t worry; Rox Restaurant is perfect even if you want casual dining.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 10:30 PM
- Location: Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Taragaon, Boudha
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Third Eye Restaurant
(Source: Official Facebook)
Indian cuisine is delicious. Indian dishes are primarily deep-fried, savory, and spicy. They are mouth-watering and delicious. Even if you are not a fan of spiciness, Indian food has diverse options to choose from.
Guess what? You can enjoy traditional Indian cuisine in Kathmandu at Third Eye Restaurant. Since 1989 AD, the establishment has secured a mark in the culinary industry for decades. Its flavorful dishes can’t be found anywhere else.
The restaurant offers Nepali, Indian, and Continental cuisines. Its Indian specialties include Third Eye Special Raan, Fish Molly, and Nan bread. Furthermore, Third Eye Thaali is most recommended to Nepali cuisine lovers. Guests can select from an array of house wines to accompany their meals.
The eatery offers an outdoor dining experience. Guests can have food away from the bustling streets in a peaceful environment. So, if you want to enjoy the finest Indian cuisine, hurry up and make a reservation at the Third Eye Restaurant.
- Opening Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Location: JP Road Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
OR2K
(Source: Official Facebook)
So far, our article has listed restaurants that offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Although these establishments offer multiple dining options, some of our readers must be waiting to see if there is any vegetarian restaurant. As a vegetarian myself, I can relate with my fellow readers.
So, we have OR2K, a culinary oasis in Thamel, Kathmandu, for those looking for vegetarian and vegan restaurants. This vegetarian restaurant solely provides vegan and vegetarian food from Middle Eastern, Israeli, and Mediterranean cuisines.
From serving platters, hummus, and falafel to varieties of smoothies and herbal teas, this establishment caters to guests’ every need. Thanks to their dedication to serving healthy vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, OR2K has been in the business for over two decades.
You will never find another authentic vegan restaurant than OR2K in Kathmandu. It has also established its branch in Pokhara. Hence, visitors can enjoy their vegan dining experience in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 11 PM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu; Lake Side Pokhara
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Tahina Terrace
(Source: Official Facebook)
We have discussed indoors, outdoors, and rooftop establishments so far; now, let’s talk about a terrace eatery named Tahina Terrace. It is located on the third level of the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel at Naxal.
As its name suggests, Tahina’s specialty lies in its impressive terrace seating that offers an alfresco dining experience. You can enjoy the mountain range, Kathmandu skyline, and city views. Its opening hours are between 4 PM and 10 PM when you can enjoy a cool evening breeze and watch Kathmandu city at night.
Tahina Terrace offers classic and modern Mediterranean cuisine. Its best-seller dish is Zattar Manakish, a savory and earthy flavored Middle Eastern food. Other signature dishes include Tahina Hot Mezze, Tahina Classic Cold Mezze, and Spanish Seafood Paella.
You will undoubtedly enjoy dining in a terrace setting at the Tahina Terrace.
- Opening Hours: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Location: Manakamanamarg, Naxal, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Renowned Cafes And Breakfast Hubs In Kathmandu
Breakfast is an ideal meal that sets the mood for the whole day. Some of us want a quick caffeine fix immediately after waking up. So, here we have handpicked renowned coffee houses and cafes in Kathmandu.
Kaiser Cafe
Who said cafes are only for coffee and beverages? Kaiser Cafe in Thamel offers European, Central European, Nepali, and International cuisines. You can enjoy these delicious cuisines with a cup of coffee of your interest.
Situated ideally at Garden Of Dreams, Kaiser Cafe should be your destination for enjoying the finest dining service. The establishment offers delicious food with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Another vouching point is that they are budget-friendly, as Kaiser Cafe is a moderately priced restaurant.
Furthermore, the cafe’s rooftop faces Kathmandu, offering gorgeous panoramic views. Diners can relish their meal, enjoying the breathtaking scenarios. If you are impressed, head out to dine at Kaiser Cafe.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu, Bāgmatī 459
- Website: Basera Boutique Hotel | The Most Authentic Hotel
Gaia Restaurant & Coffee Shop
(Source: Official Facebook)
Breakfast sets the tone for the day. A good breakfast is good for health, mood enhancement, and speeding metabolism. But, it could be difficult to have a good breakfast during travels and tours.
If you are in Kathmandu and want to start your day with a perfect breakfast, you should visit Gaia Restaurant & Coffee Shop. Enjoy a sumptuous meal or grab a quick bite before starting your day.
The coffee house offers local and international favorites. They offer several breakfast sets, light meals like salads and soups, Asian specialties like Pad Thai, momos, and Mongolian beef, and beverages. Guests can enjoy dining indoors and outdoors.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 9:30 PM
- Location: Jyatha, Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook
Rosemary Kitchen & Coffee House
As its name suggests, Rosemary Kitchen & Coffee House provides an aromatic and warm atmosphere. It is a great place for those looking for a coffee and a quick snack to munch on. Additionally, it offers delicious and visually appealing desserts.
The eatery offers various dishes, with chef-special Tenderloin Steak, Fresh Veg Cashnut, Stuffed Chicken Supreme, Australian Lamb Chop, and more. You can enjoy your meal outdoors, enjoying beautiful garden scenery.
Rosemary Kitchen also offers traditional Nepali cuisine, including traditional Dal Bhat. They also have an array of dishes for breakfast and offer multiple cuisines. Whether you want your quick coffee fix or go-to lunch box, Rosemary Kitchen will satisfy your every desire.
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10 PM
- Location: J P Marg, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Roadhouse Cafe Thamel
(Source: Official Instagram)
Who here doesn’t love pizzas? The delicious cheesy dish will melt in your mouth with each bite. Let the flavor of tomatoes, pepperoni, and meat toppings kick in; the feeling is heavenly. Pizzas are a feast indeed.
Guess what? You can enjoy delicious pizzas in Kathmandu. Among the best pizza places in the city, Roadhouse Cafe in Thamel ranks in the top ten list. Also, it is local people’s favorite pizza zone, and this place is famous among visitors and tourists.
The establishment offers its signature wood-fired pizza, salads, and pizzas. It also has a breakfast and food & drinks menu featuring dishes like Egg Benedict, American Pancake, French Toast, and Bircher Muesli, and drinks like mocktails, cocktails, and wines.
Anyone visiting the Roadhouse Cafe will enjoy its relaxed atmosphere and aesthetic decor. They can also enjoy outdoor dining at the cafe’s garden patio. Finally, you won’t find any place better than this for sure.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 11 PM
- Location: Thamel, Kathmandu
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Instagram
Carpe Diem Lounge & Bakery
Carpe Diem Lounge & Bakery boasts an ambiance environment, satisfying hospitality, and good food. Located at Paknajol, Thamel, this place offers delicious cuisine, drinks, desserts, and confectionaries.
Another vouching point for Carpe Diem is its helpful and friendly staff. This place has top-notch customer service that former customers have praised highly. The staff makes guests feel at home right after entering the bakery.
The lounge is open for Breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner, and late night. They offer multi-cuisine such as Asian, Nepali, Indian, and European. Moreover, the establishment prioritizes health so that you will enjoy a tasty and hygienic meal.
- Official Hours: 8:15 AM – 10:30 PM
- Location: Paknajol, Kaldhara Pipalbot, Thamel
- Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram
Kathmandu has lots of restaurant options, doesn’t it? What is more fascinating is how each establishment strives to serve something new and provide a new experience to its customers. Still, the one constant thing is the restaurateurs’ hospitable and welcoming behavior.
Visitors will get to explore Kathmandu’s food culture and learn its background. Overall, they will thoroughly enjoy their stay in the city.
