Located in the Himalayas, this mountain kingdom is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in the world. Be it royal palaces or monasteries, the country of Bhutan has a lot to offer to anyone looking for peace or just waiting to enjoy the local culture. The people here are simple and happy, which is a reason to visit Bhutan Once in a lifetime. There are many restaurants in Bhutan that serve traditional food, Indian and other cuisines to cater to the needs of tourists.
Read on to know more about the restaurants in Bhutan that you should definitely include during your visit to the country.
10 Best Restaurants in Bhutan
Although there are many places to eat in Bhutan, here is a list of the 10 best restaurants where you will want to dine again and again!
1. Bukhari in Uma by COMO
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One of the most acclaimed places for Bhutanese food, Bukhari is frequented by those who visit the city of Paro. One of the best restaurants in Bhutan, it is located inside Hotel Uma itself, making it easily accessible to house guests. The atmosphere is international and the food served appeals to a diverse clientele. Try something like chilli cheese (Ema Datshi) here which is basically a mixture of a whole green chilli and delicious local (melted) cheese. There is a subtle Western influence in the food. Hello, this is firmly rooted in the Bhutanese flavor and way of life. The staff is courteous and having dinner here is a must on your trip to Bhutan.
Place: Paro, Bhutan
Cost for two: INR 4000
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
2. Sonam Trophy Restaurant
This moderately priced place is one of the best restaurants in Paro Bhutan. You will be able to enjoy delicious Thukpa, Datshi and Momos here. The options here are vegetarian as well as vegetarian, which is good news for people looking for vegetarian Bhutanese food. You can also enjoy a variety of Asian cuisine at nominal prices at Bhutan’s Sonam Trofel Restaurant.
Place: Paro Tshongdue, Paro, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1800 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4
Review
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3. Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
Undoubtedly the best restaurant in Thimphu Bhutan, this place is a favorite for traditional Bhutanese food. Try their buckwheat pancakes or other dishes made from eggplant and beans – and you will definitely become a fan of this place. The beauty of this place also lies in the seating area and ambiance which is like a traditional Bhutanese home. You can enjoy authentic butter tea as well as a variety of datshi (local curries) here. Once you have visited the Folk Heritage Museum, eating at the restaurant is a must.
Place: Folk Heritage Museum, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
4. Babessa Village Restaurant
Think authentic Bhutanese non-vegetarian food, and chances are this is where you’ll land. Try starting their set meals with hot beverages such as butter tea (which is like cream soup in many ways) and serving various vegetables such as rice, dried pork/beef curry, turnips, eggplant and/or ferns with cheese. Overall, a definite yes for all those who want to try and taste exotic native cuisine during their trip to Bhutan. The seating area is comfortable with low ceilings and the place is located inside a heritage house, which adds to the whole experience.
Place: Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1500 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
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5. San Maru Restaurant
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Run by a Bhutanese-Korean couple who are all smiles, this is the only place in the country where you can enjoy absolutely delicious Korean food. Bibimbap with barbecue chicken is one of the best dishes you can find in the country. Like most other places, this Bhutanese restaurant is designed in traditional interiors and is one of the best dining experiences in the country.
Place: Norzin Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1800 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
6. Champaka Cafe
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Think amazing coffee and delicious food and you have Champacha. The place is quite beautifully designed with high wooden stools in place of the usual tables and chairs. The food is delicious, ranging from pizza, burgers, a variety of sandwiches to a variety of baked goods such as cakes, pastries, cookies and other fresh items. Their aromatic coffee is popular with locals and hikers alike!
Place: Main Street, Paro, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1000 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
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7. colored
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Located in the heart of the market, Zombala is the perfect place to recharge your batteries after wandering the markets of Thimphu. This place serves delicious momos as well as various flavors of emma datshi with ingredients like mushroom and chicken. The food is moderately priced and there is also a bar where you can sit with a group of friends after a tiring day, making it one of the best restaurants in Bhutan.
Place: Hong Kong Market, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 800 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4
Review
8. Taktsang Cafeteria
Situated amidst the hills, this beautiful place is about halfway to Tigers Nest. You can enjoy the views here along with great food that will take care of your needs. This place serves red rice with traditional curry, service is a bit slow but polite. You can also pack some food here for the rest of your journey.
Place: Paro, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1200 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5
Review
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9. Bhutan Kitchen
Another place to enjoy traditional food, Bhutan Kitchen has traditional low seating. The ingredients used are fresh and local, which enhance the aroma and flavor of the dishes. One of the best restaurants in Thimphu Bhutan, this place offers only vegetarian options, which will help you explore the native cuisine more. You should definitely try the lentil soup and stir-fried vegetables with red rice. You can also opt for the buffet plan here, which will help you choose your next meal better. Simply put, one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Bhutan!
Place: Gatoen Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1800 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4
Review
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10. Ambient Cafe
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The ambiance of this place is a blend of typical Bhutanese elements and European café vibes. You will find books on the shelves here along with many unique books. The interior decor is quite charming, giving the whole place a quirky, fun atmosphere. Enjoy delicious pizzas, sandwiches along with iced tea and a variety of shakes that will give you the experience of being in the middle of the Himalayan kingdom.
Place: Norzin Lam, Thimphu, Bhutan
Cost for two: 1200 rupees
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
Review
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There are many other restaurants in Bhutan that will serve excellent Asian and Bhutanese food to keep you well fed. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan with TourTravelHotels, customize your itinerary so that you have enough time to explore these eateries.
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