Must-Try Foods In Bajo Town (Wangdue Phodrang) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bajo Town, Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan

The quaint town of Bajo, located in the Wangdue Phodrang district of Bhutan, has a rich culinary tradition deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture. Bhutan’s food history is intertwined with its agricultural practices, religious beliefs, and the availability of local ingredients. The staple diet includes rice (red rice), various vegetables, and chili, which is considered a vegetable rather than a spice in Bhutan. In addition to being the land of chili lovers, Wangdue Phodrang is also known for its use of cheese, which is reflected in many local dishes. The traditional Bhutanese diet is predominantly vegetarian due to the influence of Buddhism, although in some regions meat is consumed but considering the restriction on cow meat, dishes typically feature chicken, yak, or fish.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Bajo Town for Tourists

• Ema Datshi (vegetarian) - A spicy mix of chilies and local cheese known as Datshi, and it's the national dish of Bhutan.
• Khur-le (vegetarian) - Buckwheat pancakes that are usually served with a side of Ema Datshi or other stews.
• Kewa Datshi (vegetarian) - A dish made with potatoes, cheese, and sometimes a generous helping of butter or oil.
• Momos (can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian) - Dumplings that are stuffed with either vegetables or meat (such as chicken or yak).
• Shamu Datshi (vegetarian) - Mushrooms cooked in a cheesy, buttery sauce, similar to Ema Datshi but with mushrooms instead of chilies.
• Jasha Maru (non-vegetarian) - Spicy minced chicken curry that is usually flavored with ginger, garlic, and coriander.
• Paksha Paa (non-vegetarian) - Pork cooked with spicy red chilies, radishes, and spinach.
• Red Rice (vegetarian) - A Bhutanese staple, often served alongside other dishes.
• Goep (non-vegetarian) - Tripe cooked with spices, often enjoyed by those with a taste for more exotic flavors.
• Suja (vegetarian) - Bhutanese butter tea, a beverage that combines tea, salt, and butter.

Top Famous Restaurants in Bajo Town and Their Specialties

Chimi Lakhang Cafeteria

Address: Near Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Bajo Town

Famous for: Ema Datshi (vegetarian) and Red Rice (vegetarian)

Dragon's Nest Restaurant

Address: Wangdue Phodrang, Bajo Town

Famous for: Kewa Datshi (vegetarian) and Jasha Maru (non-vegetarian)

Black-necked Crane Restaurant

Address: Phobijikha Valley, Bajo Town

Famous for: Momos (can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian) and Khur-le (vegetarian)

Punakha Residency Restaurant

Address: Punakha-Wangdue, Bajo Town

Famous for: Shamu Datshi (vegetarian) and Goep (non-vegetarian)

While exploring the flavors of Bajo Town, tourists will discover the unique blend of spicy, cheesy, and comforting tastes that make Bhutanese cuisine remarkable. It is advisable to inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions, as the Bhutanese love their chili and cheese, and they may alter the spice level according to your preference.