Must-Try Foods In Jakar (Bhutan) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Jakar, Bhutan

Jakar is a town in the central-eastern region of Bhutan, known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. Bumthang, the region in which Jakar is located, is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of the country, with its history deeply intertwined with mythology and Buddhism. The cuisine in Jakar, like the rest of Bhutan, is heavily influenced by Tibetan flavors, given the historical migrations and cultural exchanges between the two regions. The food in Jakar is characterized by its use of locally sourced ingredients, including red rice, buckwheat, barley, and a variety of vegetables and herbs freshly grown in the valley. A traditional Bhutanese meal usually revolves around the staple 'Ema Datshi', made with locally grown chilies and cheese, and dishes often have a hearty and spicy flavor profile due to the incorporation of various chilies and other spices.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Jakar, Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian): Often considered the national dish of Bhutan, it features spicy chilies and a rich cheese sauce.
2. Momo (Vegetarian/Non-Vegetarian options): Tibetan-style dumplings that can come with different fillings including cheese and spinach for vegetarians.
3. Jasha Maroo (Non-Vegetarian): A spicy chicken stew that's traditional and comforting.
4. Red Rice (Vegetarian): A Bhutanese staple with a nutty flavor, often served alongside other dishes.
5. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian): This dish is similar to Ema Datshi but made with potatoes instead of chilies.
6. Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian): A Bumthang specialty made with locally produced buckwheat flour.
7. Phaksha Paa (Non-Vegetarian): Pork cooked with spicy red chilies and sometimes radishes or spinach leaves.
8. Suja (Vegetarian): Bhutanese butter tea that's salty and often served with Zow or puffed rice.
9. Lom (Vegetarian): A traditional dish made from dried turnip leaves, often served with rice.
10. Wild Ferns with Cheese (Vegetarian): A dish featuring foraged wild ferns, cooked with cheese and local spices.

Top Famous Restaurants in Jakar, Bhutan

1. Mountain Lodge Restaurant

   Address: Jakar, Bumthang, Bhutan

   Famous Food: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

2. Swiss Guest House

   Address: Kharsumphe, Jakar, Bhutan

   Famous Food: Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian)

3. Chamkhar Valley Restaurant

   Address: Main Street, Jakar, Bhutan

   Famous Food: Vegetarian Momo (Vegetarian)

4. Yoezerling Resort Restaurant

   Address: Jakar-Tang Road, Bumthang, Jakar, Bhutan

   Famous Food: Jasha Maroo (Non-Vegetarian)

5. Amankora Bumthang Dining

   Address: Jakar, Bhutan

   Famous Food: Red Rice (Vegetarian)

Note for travelers: When exploring the culinary delights of Jakar, Bhutan, please be aware that the Bhutanese diet includes a fair amount of dairy and chilies. Vegetarian options are commonly available, and some restaurants may adjust the spiciness of the dishes according to preference.