Must-Try Foods In National Memorial Chorten (Thimphu) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

National Memorial Chorten, Thimphu, Bhutan: Food History

The National Memorial Chorten is a significant landmark in Thimphu, Bhutan. While it does not have a specific food history of its own, the chorten is a focal point for local gatherings and spirituality. The food culture around the chorten mirrors the traditional Bhutanese cuisine, influenced by Tibetan and Chinese flavors, which is predominantly spicy and incorporates a lot of dairy, grains, and vegetables. Given the Buddhist values, vegetarian dishes are commonplace although Bhutanese cuisine also includes chicken, yak and pork, avoiding beef in respect to the religious sentiments of the local population.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes Around National Memorial Chorten

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian): This is Bhutan's national dish, comprising spicy chilies mixed with a local cheese known as Datshi. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Thimphu.
2. Momo (Non-Veg): Tibetan-style dumplings that are usually filled with pork, chicken or vegetables, and served steamed or fried.
3. Red Rice (Vegetarian): A nutty-flavored Bhutanese red rice, which is often served as a side dish.
4. Jasha Maroo (Non-Veg): A traditional spicy chicken stew, which is flavored with ginger, garlic, and chillies.
5. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian): A potato-based dish with a generous amount of cheese and seasoned with local spices.
6. Mushroom Datshi (Vegetarian): A variation of the traditional Ema Datshi, but with mushrooms offering a rich umami flavor.
7. Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian): Known locally as 'Pasha', these are accompanied by side dishes like Ema Datshi or other stews.
8. Bhutanese Red Rice Pilaf (Vegetarian): Cooked with veggies, it is a wholesome and nutritious meal.
9. Suja (Vegetarian): Bhutanese butter tea, a salty and buttery flavored beverage that complements the spicy food.
10. Khur-Le (Vegetarian): Traditional buckwheat noodles, often served with vegetables and sometimes with egg for added flavor.

Top Famous Restaurants Around National Memorial Chorten

Zombala 2

Address: Chang Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Famous for: Momo (Non-Veg) and Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

Bhutan Kitchen

Address: Gatoen Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Famous for: An authentic Bhutanese dining experience with local dishes like Jasha Maroo (Non-Veg) and Red Rice (Vegetarian).

Ama Restaurant

Address: Near Clock Tower Square, Thimphu, Bhutan
Famous for: Traditional Bhutanese dishes and its signature Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian).

Babesa Village Restaurant

Address: Babesa, Thimphu, Bhutan
Famous for: A rustic ambiance with traditional décor, offering dishes like Khur-Le (Vegetarian) and Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian), which is a mushroom cheese dish.

Seasons Restaurant

Address: Drentoen Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Famous for: Its international and Bhutanese cuisine. Notable dishes include Bhutanese Red Rice Pilaf (Vegetarian) and Buckwheat Pancakes (Vegetarian).

Please note that the specifics of restaurant menus can change, and while efforts are made to cater to various dietary preferences, it's advisable to check with the restaurant about current offerings and if the dish is vegetarian or non-vegetarian, especially since Bhutanese cuisine can sometimes incorporate unexpected meat products.