Introduction

Pokhara, Nepal’s lakeside town, is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and adventure activities and its vibrant food scene. Whether you are a food enthusiast or a traveler seeking to savor authentic Nepalese food, Pokhara has plenty to offer.

From street food to local food, below are some of the best local foods to taste in Pokhara.

Momos (Nepali Dumplings)

Momos are one of the most popular snacks in Nepal. The dumplings are filled with minced meat, vegetables, or cheese and then steamed, fried, or served in a spicy soup. The dough is soft and chewy, and it complements the savory filling inside. Momos are generally served with a tangy and spicy tomato-based dipping sauce that enhances their flavor.
Available in almost every restaurant and street corner in Pokhara, momos come in a variety of flavors, from chicken to buffalo to vegetables.

Thukpa (The Tibetan-Influenced Noodle Soup)

Thukpa is a flavorful and warming noodle soup that originated in Tibet but is now ubiquitous in Nepal. Hand-pulled noodles are served with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo meat in a rich broth.

The soup is seasoned with a blend of Himalayan spices, including garlic, ginger, and Sichuan pepper, offering richness and warmth. Thukpa is a healthy and soothing meal, especially on chilly Pokharanights

Sel Roti (Sweet Rice Doughnut)

Sel Roti is a sweet, traditional Nepali dessert that looks like a doughnut-bagel hybrid. Made from rice flour, sugar, and milk, the batter is deep-fried into crispy rounds. The outside is crunchy, but the inside is soft and slightly chewy.

It is usually served with tea and is extremely popular during celebrations and festivals. You may also buy fresh and hot Sel Roti easily and at local markets, and hence enjoy this snack while going sightseeing in Pokhara.

 

Newari Khaja Set (Traditional Feast)

Newari dishes are an integral part of Nepalese cuisine, and the Newari Khaja Set is one such feast that should be savored. It includes beaten rice (chiura), buffalo meat spiced (cholla), potato curry, boiled egg, pickles, and soybean fermented soup (Bhutan). The marriage of spiced and crisped beaten rice with hot, spicy buffalo meat is a dish of contrast in texture and taste.

This very proteinaceous food is often served with native Newari drinks such as Aila, a native liquor brewed from rice.

Juju Dhau (King of Yogurt)

Juju Dhau, or “king of yogurt,” is a rich and creamy yogurt originating from Newar. The dessert is made from buffalo milk and is thick and creamy with a sweetness that is naturally present. The dessert is traditionally served in clay pots, which enhance its flavor by allowing partial evaporation and fermentation. Juju Dhau is a dairy dessert lover’s delight and the perfect way to cool down after a spicy dish.

Thecheko Aloo

Thecheko Aloo is a widely consumed Pokhara dish that is renowned for its spicy and rich flavor. The dish is cooked by boiling potatoes and later mashed and mixed with mustard oil, garlic, green chilies, and a combination of spices used locally  The flavor of the dish has subtle fire and tartness, which locals love as a side dish or snack.

Majhi Kuna Fish

Majhi Kuna Fish is a popular akhara that is prepared using freshwater fish that is procured from the lakes and rivers of the region. The fish is usually sun-dried, smoked, or barbecued before cooking along with aromatic spices. This food item represents the fishing community of the region, the Mathis, and is a dish that all seafood lovers would like to try to get a taste of authentic Pokhara food.

Sekuwa(Nepali Barbecue)

For all grilled meat lovers, sekuwa is a compulsory dish in Pokhara. Sekuwa is a Nepalese-style barbecue where the meat (mutton, buffalo, or chicken) is marinated and roasted over an open fire on sticks.

The spices used for the marinade include locally available spices, mustard oil, garlic, and ginger, giving a pungent, smoky flavor. Served with fresh salad and chutneys, Sekuwa is an evening delight accompanied by traditional beverages.

Sekuwa, Nepali Fast Food
Sekuwa (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

 

Where to Try These Dishes in Pokhara

Pokhara has many excellent restaurants, cafes, and street stalls where you can try these delicious local food items. Some of the best places you should try are:

  • Moondance Restaurant is excellent for Newari food and Dal Bhat.
  • OR2K: The favorite hangout for momos and veggie dishes.
  • Rosemary Kitchen is excellent for true Nepalese cuisine.
  • Busy Bee Café barbecue fare includes.
  • Street Vendors: The best place to try Sel Roti, Laphing, and Chatamari.

Conclusion

Pokhara is not just an adventure seeker’s paradise but a food lover’s paradise as well. From relishing a delicious Dal Bhat to the spicy momos and the rich, sweet Juju Dhau, Pokhara has something delectable for all.

Relishing local cuisine is one of the best experiences that enable one to imbibe the culture of Nepal, so make sure to add this yummy delicacy to your platter while visiting Pokhara.

You may also like Eat Like a Local: Kathmandu’s Ultimate Street Food Tour.