Must-Try Foods In Clock Tower Square (Thimphu) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Clock Tower Square, Thimphu, Bhutan

The Clock Tower Square is not just the central landmark of Thimphu, but it also stands as a hub for the city's cultural and social life. It isn't, however, historically known for its culinary lineage, as it is a relatively modern development compared to the age-old traditions of Bhutanese cuisine. Bhutan's food culture is deeply influenced by its Tibetan neighbors, with an emphasis on red rice, chili peppers, and cheese. Over the years, Thimphu has seen a rise in restaurants and cafes around the Clock Tower Square, incorporating both local and international flavors to cater to the diverse tastes of locals and tourists alike.

Must-try Top 10 Food Dishes in Clock Tower Square, Thimphu, Bhutan

Here are some dishes you should not miss while visiting Thimphu:

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian) - A spicy mix of chilies and local cheese is the national dish of Bhutan.
2. Phaksha Paa (Non-Cattle Non-Veg) - A dish of stewed pork with spicy red chillies.
3. Momos (Vegetarian or Non-Cattle Non-Veg) - Tibetan-style dumplings filled with either vegetables or non-cattle meat such as chicken.
4. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian) - A comforting dish made from potatoes and cheese.
5. Red Rice (Vegetarian) - A staple at most meals, often served with various curries and sides.
6. Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian) - A traditional Bhutanese dish often served with side dishes.
7. Jasha Maroo (Non-Cattle Non-Veg) - A spicy chicken stew, often flavored with ginger, garlic, and onions.
8. Suja (Vegetarian) - Bhutanese butter tea, a perfect accompaniment to battle the cold weather.
9. Lom (Vegetarian) - A dish made from dried turnip leaves, which are rehydrated and cooked with spices.
10. Yaksha Shakam (Non-Cattle Non-Veg) - Dried yak meat, which is rehydrated and stewed with chillies and other spices.

Top Famous Restaurants in Clock Tower Square, Thimphu, Bhutan

• Zombala 2
  Address: Near Clock Tower Square, Norzin Lam, Thimphu
  Famous Dish: Chicken Momo (Non-Cattle Non-Veg)
• Cloud 9 Gourmet Burger & Milk Bar
  Address: Clock Tower Square, Thimphu
  Famous Dish: Veggie Burger (Vegetarian)
• Ama's Restaurant
  Address: Clock Tower Square, Thimphu
  Famous Dish: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)
• Bhutan Kitchen
  Address: Gatoen Lam, Thimphu
  Famous Dish: Phaksha Paa (Non-Cattle Non-Veg)
• The Zone
  Address: Hong Kong Market, Thimphu
  Famous Dish: Yaksha Shakam (Non-Cattle Non-Veg)

When visiting Thimphu, every food enthusiast should dive into the flavors and culinary practices of the local Bhutanese cuisine. Clock Tower Square offers an assortment of eateries and dishes that will introduce you to the country's gastronomic culture.