Thamel is a hive of activity in Nepal that is constantly visited by numerous tourists annually. The fact remains that whether you are here for a vacation, trekking, sightseeing, or simple exploring, Thamel is worth visiting. Being near to the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), it’s easy to get to within 20 to 30 minutes unless the traffic jams of Kathmandu become typical.
Thamel is renowned for its labyrinthine streets that are chock-full of all kinds of shops and traders selling all sorts of goods. However, it’s not only about shopping. Thamel is also known as the soul of the nightlife scene in Kathmandu. It is a popular venue for both visitors and locals due to its abundant restaurants, cafes, live music venues, and others. No matter what you are looking for, be it a tasty meal, a cozy coffee shop, or a pulsating nightlife, Thamel has it all to please you.
In the energetic district of Thamel, there are plenty of restaurants to satisfy every whim. Nevertheless, this post is going to focus on the top 3 restaurants that should be noticed thanks to their exceptional cuisine and excellent reputation.
These eateries are not only known but also praised for serving an exemplary dining experience to their customers. Whether you’re a food lover or just seeking satisfying gastronomic experiences, these restaurants will satisfy your appetite and leave you with sensational memories. With that, let’s now head to the gastronomical adventures of Thamel’s best restaurants.
OR2K
OR2K is Thamel’s famous vegetarian restaurant located in the beating heart of the Thamel area. OR2K is a sanctuary located in the vibrant streets of the dynamic Thamel, which offers its guests a tranquil environment. The delicious smell carries to the place the passerby, calling the visitors with the endearing smell of home cuisine.
The restaurant provides an exotic adaptation of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, creating diverse flavors and dishes to seduce both the locals and visitors. Taste: From a sweet falafel wrap to rich, hearty plates of hummus
One striking quality of OR2K is its relaxed, eclectic ambiance. Filled with colorful rugs, upholstered seats, and low tables, it provides a relaxed and elegant environment to relax while exploring Thamel. The soft lights and ambient music in accompaniment of the kaleidoscope of busy streets outside play a part in enhancing the dining experience.
Besides its mouth-watering food and friendly atmosphere, OR2K is also a place for its top-of-the-line staff. No matter if you are here as a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, the experienced OR2K team will always take into consideration to make sure everyone who comes here feels welcomed and taken care of.
Finally, OR2K is more like a dining destination than a restaurant – an oasis of the culinary treats in the heart of Thamel that nurtures the senses and feeds the soul. Either you are after the taste of a great vegan meal, you want to run away from the crowded areas, or you are looking for a spectacular place
Forest and Plate
The Forest & Plate restaurant is a unique place to dine in Thamel, Kathmandu. It is all about delightful food and a great view of nature. It is very cozy inside, with lots of wood and big windows to look over the forest outside. It’s an ideal place to get away from the busy life of the city.
They are all about local and fresh stuff for their cuisine use. The team works with neighbors’ farmers for the best ingredients. The menu is seasonal, though, so you can always explore something different.
One of the nicest dishes that they offer is the curry chicken, which is cooked with delicious spices and served with rice. It’s super flavorful. They have veg and chicken momos ( Tibetan dumplings ), too. It comes with a spicy sauce that’s awesome.
They also produce drinks using the local raw material. Their particular drink of theirs— the Forest & Plate Mojito — is created using fresh mint and sugarcane that are grown locally. It is a great way of cooling off on a hot day.
Though it gets popular, the restaurant remains comfortable and friendly. The employees are friendly and very helpful at all times. Well, if you’re in Thamel and thinking of having a delicious meal in a cool environment, do not forget to visit the Forest & Plate cafe. For those seeking a truly unique dining experience in Thamel, Forest, and Plate is a must-visit destination.
Himalayan Java Coffee
Himalayan Java Coffee is a well-known coffee house brand that has become synonymous with Nepal, most specifically Thamel Street, located in Kathmandu. Himalayan Java has become a favorite among both locals and tourists who want tasty coffee and a comfortable ambiance while showing commitment to quality and sustainability.
The history of Himalayan Java goes back to its creator, Gagan Pradhan, whose trip and stay abroad inspired him to bring the best coffee back to Nepal. In 1999, he launched the first Himalayan Java outlet in Thamel, an introduction of specialty coffee to Nepali people. After that, it expanded into many places in Nepal and also maintained international branches.
One of the most distinguishing features of Himalayan Java is that it sources high-quality coffee beans from the Himalayan region itself. The company partners closely with coffee farmers in Nepal to produce the highest quality Arabica beans. These beans are then roasted to perfection on site. Such focus on local sourcing not only guarantees freshness but also practices sustainability and uplifts the local population.
What is more, the coffee shops of Himalayan Java are characterized by a very friendly and hospitable atmosphere. Every location is decorated in a rustic fashion, is comfortable, and has a laid-back atmosphere, which makes it a perfect spot for relaxation, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a moment of serenity amidst the urban chaos of Thamel.
Above all, Himalayan Java is not simply a coffeehouse but also a community center. Cafes typically have events, live music shows, and art exhibitions that make the guests feel like a part of the community.
Final Say
There are many other very popular restaurants inside the streets of Thamel. The above list is just based on my personal experience and popularity. Depending on the food you would like to taste, you can visit the restaurant of your choice.
OR2K, Forest and Plate, and Himalayan Java Coffee have become some of the most popular places in Thamel. People from both Nepal and around the world have added them to their must-visit list. I hope you love reading about the top restaurant inside Thamel.
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