Exploring Thimphu's Culinary Scene: The Top Restaurants You Need to Try

It's easy to find good food in Thimphu. The city is home to a great variety of restaurants, ranging from casual diners to upscale eateries. You can find just about any type of cuisine you're craving, from Indian and Nepali food to Western-style dishes.

But with so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the top restaurants in Thimphu, based on our own personal experiences. Whether you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or you just want a good meal out, we've got you covered.

Authentic Bhutanese Experiences

When you're in Thimphu, make sure to experience the local food. While there are a number of Western restaurants, the best food is found at the local joints. And by eating at these places, you'll get an authentic Bhutanese experience.

The best way to find the local restaurants is to ask around. The people of Thimphu are friendly and will be more than happy to recommend their favorite spots. And if you're not sure where to start, here are a few places that we recommend:

1. Wangdi's Restaurant: This is a local favorite, and for good reason. Wangdi's serves up delicious Bhutanese and Indian food.

2. Druk Hotel's Yak Restaurant: If you're looking for a truly unique dining experience, head to the Yak Restaurant at Druk Hotel. Here, you'll be served up traditional Bhutanese cuisine using ingredients sourced from the hotel's own organic garden.

3. Kuenphen Restaurant: Kuenphen is a family-owned restaurant that serves up some of the best thukpa (noodle soup) in Thimphu.

International Favorites Spiced Up

When it comes to eateries in Thimphu, there's certainly no shortage of variety. You'll find establishments serving up traditional Bhutanese cuisine, as well as restaurants catering to international palates.

But even the most well-traveled gastronomes will find something new to savor in Thimphu's eclectic culinary scene. Local spices and flavors have been infused into familiar favorites, resulting in a unique dining experience that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.

We recommend starting your food journey with an appetizer of pork momos at the popular Snow Lion Restaurant. Then, move on to a main course of beef thukpa at the equally acclaimed Druk Restaurant. If you're looking for something sweet to top off your meal, we suggest the delicious chocolate banana pancake at The Junction.

Restaurants With a View

Another great option for dining in Thimphu is Druk View restaurant. Located on the top floor of a hotel, this spot offers up stunning views of the cityscape and the Himalayan mountains beyond.

The menu here is a mix of Bhutanese and international cuisine, so you can get a taste of everything Thimphu has to offer. Be sure to try the ema datse, a traditional dish made with chili peppers, cheese, and potatoes. And of course, no meal is complete without a Bhutanese national dish—red rice!

If you're looking for a more intimate setting, Druk View also has a private dining room that can accommodate up to eight people.

Treat Yourself to Something Special

When it comes to special occasions, you deserve to splurge a little bit. And in Thimphu, there's no better place to do that than at The Lakhang Restaurant.

This upscale eatery offers traditional Bhutanese cuisine with a modern twist, and the setting is absolutely beautiful. The restaurant is located in a converted farmhouse, and the dining room has high ceilings, exposed beams, and stunning views of the valley below.

The menu features dishes like ema datshi (a chili and cheese dish), jasha maru (a chicken curry), and phaksha paa (pork ribs), and there's even a Bhutanese take on sushi. And of course, no meal here would be complete without a glass of Bhutan's famous Ara rice wine.

So whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something special, The Lakhang Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

There you have it—a rundown of the top restaurants in Thimphu. We hope you enjoy trying out all of the delicious cuisines on offer! You can also choose our tour guide service from Norbu Bhutan Travel for more exposure.