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

Food History of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal

The history of food in Kathmandu Durbar Square is deeply intertwined with the rich cultural tapestry of Nepal's capital. Historically, the Square was the regal heart of the city where kings were crowned, and public ceremonies conducted. Given its prominence, it has always been a melting pot of various cultures and cuisines, reflecting the diverse ethnic groups living in Nepal. The Newar community, indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, has particularly influenced the local cuisine, with their traditional dishes becoming staples throughout the city. In the alleyways and courtyards around Durbar Square, one can find an array of street food vendors and local eateries offering a taste of traditional Nepali cuisine. A significant aspect of the food culture here is the focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and an abundant use of spices, which provide a distinctive flavor unique to this region.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Kathmandu Durbar Square

1. Momo (Non-Veg) - Steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat, served with a spicy tomato sauce.
2. Yomari (Veg) - A traditional Newari sweet dumpling made of rice flour dough and filled with molasses and sesame seeds.
3. Samosa (Veg) - A fried or baked pastry with a savory filling, such as spiced potatoes, onions, peas, lentils.
4. Dal Bhat (Veg/Non-Veg option) – A staple meal of lentil soup (dal) served over boiled rice (bhat) with various accompaniments.
5. Sel Roti (Veg) - A traditional homemade, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread/doughnut.
6. Bara (Veg) – Savory rice-flour pancakes that can be eaten plain or with an egg or minced meat on top.
7. Aloo Tama (Veg) – A sour soup made with potatoes (aloo) and bamboo shoots (tama).
8. Chatamari (Veg) – Sometimes referred to as 'Nepali Pizza,' this is a rice crepe with toppings like chopped onions, fresh coriander, minced meat, egg, and spices.
9. Lassi (Veg) – A refreshing yogurt-based drink blended with water, spices, and sometimes fruit.
10. Thukpa (Non-Veg) - A hearty noodle soup with vegetables and meat, influenced by Tibetan cuisine.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kathmandu Durbar Square

Freak Street Kitchen

Location: Jhochhen Tole, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Vegetarian Thali (Veg)

Ka:Ba Grill and BBQ

Location: Basantapur Durbar Square area, Kathmandu, Nepal

Famous Dish: Grilled Chicken Sizzler (Non-Veg)

Newa Momo Restaurant P. Ltd.

Location: Makhan Tole, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Buffalo Momo (Non-Veg)

Kathmandu Grill

Location: Jyatha, Thamel - near Durbar Square, Kathmandu, Nepal

Famous Dish: Chicken Tikka Masala (Non-Veg)

OR2K

Location: Thamel, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Hummus with Pita Bread (Veg)

PatanYala Café

Location: Patan Durbar Square, Lalitpur 44700, Nepal

Famous Dish: Egg-Free Yomari (Veg)

Third Eye Restaurant

Location: J P Road, Thamel, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Butter Naan with Veg Curry (Veg)

Himalayan Java Coffee

Location: Bhanu Chowk, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Coffee and Pastries (Veg)

Bhanchha Ghar

Location: Kamaladi Rd, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Newari Set Meal (Non-Veg option available)

Old House Restaurant

Location: Durbar Marg, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Famous Dish: Duck Breast (Non-Veg)