Food History of Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Taumadhi Square, nestled in the heart of Bhaktapur, is not just a place of architectural grandeur, but also a hotspot for gastronomic adventures. The cuisine here is deeply intertwined with the Newari culture which is predominant in Bhaktapur. Newari cuisine is one of the most celebrated food traditions in Nepal, known for its distinctive flavors and ingredients. The culture involves consumption of a variety of foods during festivals and celebrations, which often find their way to the square. With the locals taking immense pride in their culinary heritage, the square buzzes with traditional eateries and vendors serving authentic delicacies.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
-
Bara (Veg) - A savory lentil pancake that's a popular Newari snack. It's typically vegetarian and enjoyed with spicy chutneys.
-
Yomari (Veg) - A steamed dumpling made from rice flour with a sweet filling, commonly jaggery and sesame seeds. It's a festive dish especially savored during the Yomari Punhi festival.
-
Juju Dhau (Veg) - Known as the "King Yogurt", Juju Dhau is a creamy and rich yogurt originating from Bhaktapur, and is a must-try dessert for any visitor.
-
Bhaktapur Sel Roti (Veg) - A traditional homemade, sweet, ring-shaped rice doughnut that is often paired with yogurt or curry.
-
Chatamari (Veg) - Sometimes referred to as 'Newari Pizza,' it is a rice crepe which can be topped with various ingredients but commonly comes with vegetables, making it a vegetarian choice.
-
Momo (Option for both Veg and Non-Veg) - Nepali dumplings that are a culinary staple, which can be filled with vegetables or meat, except cow meat as it is prohibited.
-
Newari Khaja Set (Veg/Non-Veg options) - An assorted platter of Newari dishes which can include beans, eggs, and meat items, alongside vegetarian options.
-
Laphing (Veg) - A spicy and savory cold noodle dish of Tibetan origin, which has become a street food favorite in Bhaktapur.
-
Aalu Tama (Veg) - A sour and spicy soup that combines bamboo shoots and potatoes, a quintessential part of Newari cuisine.
-
Samay Baji (Non-Veg) - A traditional Newari feast dish that includes beaten rice, spicy grilled meat (other than cow), soybeans, among other components.
Top Famous Restaurants in Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur
Several restaurants encircle Taumadhi Square, offering visitors a taste of the local cuisine. Here are a few prominent ones:
- Shiva's Cafe Corner
- Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
- Famous Food: Newari Platter (Both Veg and Non-Veg options)
- King Curd - Juju Dhau
- Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal
- Famous Food: Juju Dhau (Veg)
- Beans The Coffee Shop
- Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
- Famous Food: Coffee and Bakery Items (Veg)
- Sunny Restaurant and Cosy Bar
- Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur 44800, Nepal
- Famous Food: Bhaktapur Sel Roti (Veg)
- Nyatapola Restaurant
- Address: Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur, Nepal
- Famous Food: Traditional Nepali Thali (Veg/Non-Veg options)
These restaurants not only offer a taste of the local flavors but also typically provide a cultural ambiance that resonates with the rich heritage of Taumadhi Square and the whole of Bhaktapur.