Top 10 Authentic Nepali Dishes You Must Try in One Day – A Local Foodie's Guide

Top 10 Authentic Nepali Dishes You Must Try in One Day – A Local Foodie's Guide
Introduction: One Day to Eat (and Learn) Like a Local
Nepal isn’t just about the Himalayas—it’s also a culinary treasure chest filled with rich flavors, vibrant spices, and deeply rooted traditions. If you're visiting Kathmandu or living here and want to experience Nepal's heritage, trying its food is the best way in.
And guess what? You don’t just have to taste the food—you can also learn to cook it with us!
We offer authentic Nepali cuisine classes and food experiences for travelers, foodies, and curious learners. But first, let’s explore the Top 10 Nepali Dishes you must try in one day—and if you're interested, you can even learn to cook them in our hands-on workshop!
1. Dal Bhat Tarkari – The National Plate
What it is: Rice, lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat curry.
Why you should try it: It’s Nepal’s most iconic meal—nutritious, comforting, and deeply cultural.
Learn it in class: Yes! We teach the entire Thakali-style dal bhat set in our traditional kitchen setting.
2. Momo – Nepal’s Most Loved Dumpling
Why you should try it: Soft and juicy dumplings with fillings like buff, chicken, and veg.
Types: Steamed, fried, jhol (soup) momo
Learn it in class: Yes! You’ll learn to make and fold momos like a local.
3. Sel Roti with Aloo Tarkari – Nepali Breakfast Classic
What it is: Deep-fried rice doughnut with a crispy crust and soft inside, served with spiced potato curry.
Why it’s special: Traditionally made during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.
Learn it in class: Yes! We use a family-secret sel roti recipe passed down through generations.
4. Thakali Set – The Premium Nepali Platter
What it includes: Rice, lentils, gundruk, saag, chicken curry, and pickles
Flavor profile: Balanced spice, homemade ghee, and local Himalayan herbs
Learn it in class: Yes, available in our advanced cooking workshop.
5. Sekuwa – Grilled Spiced Meat
What it is: Smoky, marinated grilled meat served with chutneys.
Perfect for: A BBQ lover’s twist on local cuisine.
Learn it in class: Optional – Available in our Grill & Fire Nepali Cuisine Class
6. Thukpa – The Soulful Noodle Soup
What it is: Brothy noodle soup with meat or vegetables, ideal for cool days.
Cultural roots: Tibetan-influenced, but popular in the highlands and cities alike.
Learn it in class: Yes, taught in our Winter Favorites Session
7. Chatamari – Newari Crêpe
Nicknamed: The Nepali pizza
Made with: Rice flour base, topped with minced meat, egg, and onions
Learn it in class: Yes – part of our Newari Cuisine Focus Class
8. Bara – Savory Lentil Pancakes
Why it’s special: High in protein and traditionally cooked during Newar festivals
Toppings: Can include egg, buffalo meat, or simply stay vegetarian
Learn it in class: Yes – included in Newar Combo Meal training
9. Juju Dhau – The King of Yogurt
Origin: Bhaktapur
Taste: Thick, creamy, mildly sweet, served in clay pots
Learn it in class: Yes – we teach a homemade version using local techniques
10. Tongba / Raksi / Chyang – Local Beverages
What they are: Fermented drinks made from rice, millet, or corn
Cultural value: Served during feasts and gatherings
Learn it in class: Yes – with optional tasting session (for guests 18+ only)
Bonus: One-Day Nepali Cuisine Tasting & Learning Plan
Time | Experience | Location |
---|---|---|
9:00 AM | Welcome Tea + Sel Roti Tasting | Our kitchen |
10:00 AM | Momo Making Workshop | Hands-on class |
12:30 PM | Lunch: Dal Bhat Set | Served + Made |
2:00 PM | Bara + Chatamari Live Session | Newari session |
4:00 PM | Juju Dhau + Pickle Making | Sweet ending |
5:00 PM | Raksi & Chyang Tasting (Optional) | Courtyard space |
Why Join Our Nepali Cuisine Class?
- Learn from local chefs
- Perfect for tourists, students, couples & families
- Get a certificate of participation
- All ingredients, tools & aprons included
- Great for photos, souvenirs & stories
Call to Action – Book Your Nepali Food Class Today
Experience. Taste. Learn.
Join our One-Day Authentic Nepali Food Class in Kathmandu and take a journey through Nepal’s most delicious dishes in just one unforgettable day!
- Private & Group Classes Available
- Fully Guided in English
- Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly Options