Just after a rejuvenating day at a spa in Pokhara, there could hardly be anything better to have for your body and soul: lunching on a hearty meal at Thakali Restaurants . We Nepalese believe in Dal Bhat Power, 24-hour ( Lentil & Rice Power, 24-Hour).
Rich and cereals, the dishes satisfy both your hunger and replenish low energies perfectly with their right blend of nutrients and spices. This is one of the leading cuisines in Nepalese culture, relished not only for taste but also for its nutritional value.
These meals are more cultural and denote hospitable service, coexistence, and bonding among all. While dining at these restaurants, you not only taste food but connect to the rich cultural heritage of Nepalese Thakali khana.
Herein given is a list of the highly rated top 7 Thakali restaurants in Pokhara that you should never miss.
1. Cheli Thakali
📍 Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4.3 Stars
A well-known family-friendly eatery in Lakeside, Pokhara, Cheli Thakali is well-known for its delicious Thakali khana. The restaurant takes pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create authentic dishes that capture the essence of Nepali culinary heritage.
Cheli Thakali, one of the best Thakali restaurants in Pokhara, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere where families and friends can gather to share a meal and create lasting memories. The cozy ambiance, coupled with the friendly service, makes dining at Cheli Thakali a truly enjoyable experience for all.
Whether you are craving a hearty meat dish or looking for a vegetarian option, Cheli Thakali has something for everyone. Popular dishes like Thakali Mutton Thali, Chicken Thali set, Thakali Veg Thali, and Veg Dhedo set are among the many selections on the extensive menu that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Cheli Thakali offers a wide variety of delicious foods that appeal to both discriminating palates and those looking for a satisfying, genuine dining experience in the center of Pokhara.
2. Duna Tapari Restaurant
📍 Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4.3 Stars
Living up to its name, at Duna Tapari Restaurant, meals are served on traditional Duna Tapari-leaf plates, adding an earthy charm. Each element of the meal at the restaurant is cooked to perfection to show attention to detail.
The lentils are soft, the rice fluffy, and the achar is spicy and sour. Duna Tapari also serves exotic dishes such as Kodoko Roti (buckwheat pancakes) and barley soup. These provide diners with unique Himalayan delights.
Their Thakali Khana set is deliciously balanced and flavored; hence, it is popular among food lovers. Prices are very reasonable, making it, for locals and visitors, one of the friendlier eating spots around.
3. Fewa Thakali
📍 Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4.2 Stars
Fewa Thakali one of the best thakali restaurants in Pokhara, is situated near Fewa Lake, a serene lake. The place is clean and welcoming.
The Thakali khana set is made with utmost care, having freshly prepared gundruk (fermented leafy greens) and sour pickles. The mutton curry, cooked to perfection, is one of their highlights.
The dining area is spacious and ideal for both small and large groups. Their rice is always fresh, along with homemade butter and well-spiced achar (pickle).
Prices at the restaurant are modest, which makes it quite popular among budget travelers. Fewa Thakali also allows warm, quick service where customers hardly leave their tables without relishing a meal.
Its proximity to the lake makes it a perfect place to dine right after a walk along Lakeside.
4. Airport Thakali Bhansa Ghar
📍 Location: Old Airport, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4.0 Stars
Located close to Pokhara Airport, Airport Thakali Bhansa Ghar is a well-liked and welcoming establishment that prioritizes providing its patrons with mouthwatering, freshly made cuisine and excellent service. Despite its modest size, the facility is kept clean, making it a pleasant spot to eat.
With a constant flow of patrons who value its tasty and expertly cooked meals, the restaurant’s appeal speaks for itself. A Nepali Khana set, a Chicken Thakali Khana set, a Mutton Thakali Khana set, and a Veg Thakali Khana set are all available on the menu.
The authentic flavors and generous portions make dining at Airport Thakali Bhansa Ghar a truly satisfying experience.
In addition to the delicious food, the staff at the restaurant are known for their friendly and attentive service. If you find yourself in the area, be sure to stop by for a meal that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
5. Mantra Thakali
📍 Location: Newroad, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4 Stars
Mantra Thakali, one of the best Thakali restaurants in Pokhara, presents a blend of traditional and modern flavors in its Thakali khana. It’s famous for big portions, quick service, and the perfect place for anyone who is looking for a heavy meal.
Their mutton curry was perfectly seasoned and tender. The interior of the restaurant is neat and modern but still manages to retain that Nepali warmth.
The Thakali khana set consists of freshly steamed rice, lentil soup, spinach, and flavorful achar. The staff is attentive; they always make sure their customers are satisfied.
Mantra also has vegetarian options, just as delicious as their meat dishes. Centrally located, it’s a convenient choice for locals and tourists alike.
6. Pokhara Thakali Kitchen
📍 Location: Lakeside, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4 Stars
Located in the heart of Lakeside, Pokhara Thakali Kitchen is a traditional restaurant that serves authentic food. Its dal bhat set is delicious, with seasonal vegetables and spicy achar or pickle.
Chicken curry stands out, tender and very well-seasoned. This restaurant has a relaxed ambiance with comfortable seating and traditional decorations.
With delicious Thakali Khana, this thakali restaurant also provides refreshing homemade drinks like lassi and mint tea. Their commitment to quality and taste has made it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
It is located centrally and therefore is easy to access for dining.
7. Thakali Bhanchha
📍 Location: Chipleghunga, Pokhara
⭐ Google Ratings: 4 Stars
Thakali Bhanchha Ghar is one of the best Thakali restaurants in Pokhara, serving traditional Thakali Khana sets that comprise rice, lentils, vegetables, pickles, and succulent meat. Locally sourced raw materials guarantee authenticity in taste.
Adding to the food experience is the cozy ambiance that makes it one of the favorite eating hangouts for both locals and tourists. Rich and flavorsome dal (lentil soup) well complements fresh vegetables and tender meat.
The restaurant also provides other Nepali dishes to add variety. Its friendly staff ensures excellent service, making diners feel at home. The restaurant’s rustic decor and traditional utensils further enhance the authentic vibe.
It is a must-visit spot to truly experience the essence of Thakali khana cuisine.
Why Thakali Khana Cuisine?
Thakali khana balances the flavors among sour, spicy, and savory elements. The nutritious and delicious meals make it a significant part of Nepalese food culture.
It is rooted in the traditions of the Thakali community, who are known for their culinary expertise using locally sourced ingredients. Thakali khana contains a balanced diet of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, pickles, and different types of meats.
Beyond flavors, Thakali khana is representative of the rich traditions of the Thakali people, reflecting their deep connection to the Himalayan region and its ingredients. Eating a Thakali khana is not just consuming food; it is believing in a part of Nepalese heritage.
After relaxation at the spa, pay a visit to one of the best thakali restaurants in Pokhara for rejuvenation, relishing, and indulging in Nepal’s magical food.
FAQs
1. Which place do you choose for Thakali Khana?
Pokhara has many excellent Thakali restaurants, including Cheli Thakali, Fewa Thakali, Mantra Thakali, and Thakali Bhancha Ghar. These places are popular for their authentic flavors, traditional cooking techniques, and homely ambiance. Choosing the best restaurant depends on taste preference, location, and budget.
2. What is the famous food of Pokhara?
Thakali Khana is one of the most famous foods in Pokhara, consisting of rice, lentils, vegetables, meat, gundruk, and spicy pickles. Other popular dishes include momo (dumplings), Newari cuisine, and fresh fish from Phewa Lake. The city also offers a variety of international cuisines due to its diverse tourist population.
3. What is Thakali cuisine?
Thakali cuisine originates from the Thak Khola region of Nepal and is known for its balanced flavors, rich spices, and nutritional value. It typically includes rice, dal, vegetable curries, meat dishes, and side items like gundruk, achar, and timmur-infused spices. The dishes are prepared with ghee and Himalayan herbs, making them both flavorful and aromatic.
4. Why is Thakali Khana famous?
Thakali Khana is famous for its rich taste, balanced nutrition, and unique blend of Himalayan spices. It includes a variety of side dishes that enhance the flavor, such as gundruk, achar, and crispy buckwheat pancakes. The meal is popular among both locals and tourists because of its hearty and satisfying nature.
5. How to eat Thakali Khana?
Thakali Khana is traditionally eaten by mixing rice with dal, vegetable curries, and meat dishes while adding pickles for extra flavor. Some people prefer to eat with their hands, following traditional Nepali dining customs. The meal is best enjoyed slowly, allowing the different spices and textures to blend together.