Food In Kila Goenpa

Food History of Kila Goenpa, Paro, Bhutan

The Kila Goenpa, also known as the Kila Gompa, is a serene monastery nestled in the cliffs above the Paro Valley in Bhutan. The historical significance of Kila Goenpa is more spiritual in nature, focusing on meditation and religious practices rather than food traditions. While there might not be a specific cuisine or food history associated with the monastery itself, visitors can experience the traditional Bhutanese diet, which is rich in flavor and often made using locally sourced ingredients. Bhutanese cuisine is largely impacted by its topography and Buddhist culture, which traditionally limits the consumption of meat. However, Bhutan is not strictly vegetarian, and meat is still a part of many local diets. Dishes often include a combination of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese culinary influences.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Kila Goenpa, Paro, Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian): This spicy mix of chillies and local Bhutanese cheese is Bhutan's national dish and can be found almost everywhere in Paro.
2. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian): A similar cheesy delight but with potatoes instead of chillies, offering a less spicy version of the Bhutanese favorite.
3. Momo (Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian): These Tibetan-style dumplings are typically filled with vegetables or meat, but visitors can opt for the vegetarian versions.
4. Jasha Maroo (Non-Vegetarian): A spicy chicken stew that is commonly eaten with rice. (As long as the chicken is not sourced from a cow relative, it is permitted by the user's guidelines).
5. Red Rice (Vegetarian): A Bhutanese staple, this nutritious and nutty-flavored rice is often the base for many meals.
6. Puta (Vegetarian): A traditional noodle dish made from buckwheat, often stir-fried with spicy seasonings.
7. Goep (Non-Vegetarian): A dish usually made from tripe, Goep can be sampled by those who enjoy trying the inner parts of meats.
8. Lom (Vegetarian): A veggie dish made from turnip greens, which is often dried and then prepared with a range of Bhutanese ingredients.
9. Phaksha Paa (Non-Vegetarian): Pork cooked with spicy red chillies. This dish also sometimes includes radishes or spinach leaves.
10. Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian): Comprising of mushrooms and cheese, this dish is a tasty vegetarian option that features the rich flavors of local dairy mixed with vegetables.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kila Goenpa, Paro, Bhutan

While Kila Goenpa itself is not known for having restaurants given its function as a monastery, the nearby town of Paro offers a variety of dining options. Below are some top restaurants in Paro and their famous dishes:

Zamling Restaurant

Address: Main Street, Paro, Bhutan

Famous for: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

Yegyel Cafe

Address: Paro Town, Paro, Bhutan

Famous for: Egg and Cheese Momo (Vegetarian)

Bhukari at Uma by COMO, Paro

Address: Uma By COMO, Paro, Bhutan

Famous for: Chilli Cheese Fries (Vegetarian) and Phaksha Paa (Non-Vegetarian)

Authentic Pizza

Address: Olathang Road, Paro, Bhutan

Famous for: Wood-fired Pizzas (Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian)

Mountain Cafe

Address: Tshongdue, Paro, Bhutan

Famous for: Bhutanese Set Meals (Can include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options)

Please note that the specific menu options may vary and it's always best to check with the restaurant for their current offerings, especially regarding vegetarian preferences.