Must-Try Foods In Bhaktapur Durbar Square (Bhaktapur) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal

The ancient city of Bhaktapur in Nepal, with its historical Durbar Square, is not just renowned for its spectacular architecture and artifacts but also for its rich culinary traditions. The Newar community, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, has a diverse and affluent food culture that is reflective of their history and lifestyle. Their food is a fusion of indigenous practices and outside influences, with particular emphasis on seasonal and ritualistic foods, and is prominently vegetarian due to the strong Hindu and Buddhist traditions, which encourage a diet that avoids harm to animals, particularly cows, which are sacred in Hinduism.

As a cultural hub, Bhaktapur has preserved many traditional recipes and techniques. The city is particularly famous for its yogurt, known as "Juju Dhau," which is made with buffalo milk and has a unique flavor profile due to the use of clay pots for fermentation. Throughout the year, Bhaktapur hosts various festivals where specific dishes are prepared and shared, embodying the idea that food is an integral part of their heritage and communal life.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Bhaktapur Durbar Square

1. Juju Dhau (Sweet Yogurt) - Veg: A creamy and sweet yogurt that is a must-try delicacy of Bhaktapur, often served in traditional clay pots.
2. Bara (Lentil Pancake) - Veg: This savory pancake made from ground lentils is a popular Newari snack often combined with egg or minced buffalo meat, but vegetarian versions are readily available.
3. Yomari - Veg: A delightful steamed dumpling made of rice flour dough and filled with jaggery (molasses) and sesame seeds, typically prepared during the Yomari Punhi festival.
4. Chatamari - Veg/Non-Veg: Known as Newari pizza, this rice crepe can be enjoyed with various toppings, including vegetarian options with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
5. Samay Baji - Veg/Non-Veg: An authentic Newari platter that consists of beaten rice, lentil patties, boiled beans, pickles, and more, with vegetarian options excluding meat.
6. Momo - Veg/Non-Veg: Famous Nepali dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients including vegetables, served with a flavorful dipping sauce.
7. Sel Roti - Veg: A sweet, ring-shaped rice flour doughnut, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often enjoyed with tea.
8. King Curd (Juju Dhau) - Veg: Another name for Bhaktapur's famous sweet yogurt, heralded for its rich taste and creamy texture.
9. Alu Tama - Veg: A traditional soup made of potatoes (Alu) and bamboo shoots (Tama), noted for its slightly sour and savory flavors.
10. Kwati - Veg: A nutritious soup made from nine different types of sprouted beans, commonly eaten during the festival of Janai Purnima.

Top Famous Restaurants in Bhaktapur Durbar Square

• King Curd Shop
  Address: Pottery Square, Bhaktapur
  Famous Food: Juju Dhau (Veg)
• Shiva's Cafe Corner
  Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
  Famous Food: Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Momos
• Nyatapola Restaurant
  Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
  Famous Food: Newari Platter (Samay Baji) with Veg and Non-Veg options
• Sunny Restaurant and Cosy Bar
  Address: Durbar Square, Bhaktapur
  Famous Food: Traditional Nepali Thali (Veg and Non-Veg)
• Café Nyatapola
  Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
  Famous Food: Chatamari and Bara (Veg and Non-Veg options)