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

Food History of Paro, Bhutan

Bhutanese cuisine is deeply intertwined with the country's cultural heritage, and Paro, as a historic town, offers an authentic taste of this tradition. The food in Paro and Bhutan, in general, is known for its spiciness with chilies often considered a staple. Red rice is another key component of the diet and is grown in the Paro Valley. Dairy plays a significant role in their food with cheese prepared from yak or cow's milk. Bhutanese people typically don't consume cow meat due to religious practices, which is why beef is rarely featured in their local meals. The use of a variety of spices, predominantly Sichuan pepper (known locally as 'ema'), garlic, and ginger, characterizes the preparation of Bhutanese dishes, and Paro is a fitting representation of these culinary practices.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Paro, Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi (Vegetarian): This is the national dish of Bhutan made with spicy chilies and a delicious cheese sauce.
2. Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian): A spicy and savory dish made with potatoes, cheese, and local spices.
3. Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian): Prepared with mushrooms, cheese, and a blend of Bhutanese herbs and spices.
4. Jasha Maru (Poultry): A flavorful stew with chunks of chicken, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic.
5. Momos (Vegetarian or Poultry): Tibetan-style dumplings that are either steamed or fried, filled with vegetables or chicken.
6. Red Rice: A Bhutanese staple, often served with various dishes, noting its nutty flavor and unique red color.
7. Phaksha Paa (Pork): A spicy pork dish cooked with mountain vegetables and sometimes dried or fresh chilies.
8. No Sha Huentseu: A delicious stew made with local vegetables and dried yak meat, highlighting the yak dairy culture.
9. Jaju Soup (Vegetarian): A light, comforting soup made from spinach or other local, leafy greens.
10. Lom (Vegetarian): A traditional dish made with preserved turnip or radish leaves, usually served with rice.

Top Famous Restaurants in Paro, Bhutan

1. Yue-Ling Restaurant
   Nemjo Village, Paro, Bhutan

   Famous for: Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)

2. Bhukari at COMO Uma Paro
   COMO Uma Paro, Paro Valley, Bhutan

   Famous for: Kewa Datshi (Vegetarian) and Red Rice

3. Audrey's Restaurant & Bar
   Olathang Hotel Road, Paro, Bhutan

   Famous for: Momos (Vegetarian or Poultry) and Shamu Datshi (Vegetarian)

4. Mountain Café
   Main Street, Paro Town, Paro, Bhutan

   Famous for: Jasha Maru (Poultry) and a wide variety of Traditional Bhutanese Cuisine

5. Sonam Trophel Restaurant
   Paro Main Street, Paro, Bhutan

   Famous for: Phaksha Paa (Pork) and Ema Datshi (Vegetarian)