I usually visit Pokhara at least a couple of times a year, and the Annapurna region is famous for its Thakali food. Now, I can’t claim to know the best Thakali food in all of Pokhara because it’s a very large area, but I have tried a lot of different versions in Lakeside (the area popular for tourists). I’ve also spoken to locals and Nepalese who frequent the area. After trying a bunch of restaurants over the years, these are my top three restaurants to order Thakali in Lakeside, Pokhara.
Now, you may be thinking… What is Thakali? The Thakali people are an indigenous ethnic group in and around the Mustang region located in the Annapurnas. They have a rich culture which is most famous for their amazing food. Ask Nepali people who makes the best dal bhat and most will tell you the Thakalis do.
Note that each time I visit the area, I try to visit all the restaurants I recommend to make sure they are still the best. I also try new recommendations. I update the list as much as possible.
Jetho Budo Bhansa Ghar
I’m going to be honest; I’ve walked by Jetho Budo a million times and never tried it. It came highly recommended by several locals, but for some reason I thought it would be over-hyped. Funny enough, it was not over-hyped. The restaurant has a great vibe. It’s not trying too hard. They have gorgeous wood ceilings and a cozy feel that makes you think you are in the mountains rather than the bustling tourist area. I ordered the veg khana set and it was one of the best vegetable dal bhats I’ve ever had. Every single item on the plate was delicious on its own, but they also built on each other without competing. It was a large serving and we left with happy stomachs.
I especially loved the aloo frites (thin, crispy fried potato) that came with it. You often get these while trekking but rarely see them in restaurants. Another thing to hype up is the rice they use, which is literally called Jetho Budo rice and is a premium aromatic rice. I always joke that my husband talks about rice in a way that I’ll never understand because it always tastes the same to me, but this rice actually did taste better.
Thakali Maili Bhansa Ghar
Maili Didi’s (as locals often refer to it) is almost the exact opposite of Jetho Budo. While both restaurants serve Thakali dal bhat, they have almost nothing in common when it comes to taste. While Jetho Budo serves the type of dal bhat you expect to find in a tourist area, Maili Didi serves you food that makes you feel like you’ve just come home. The food may seem simpler, but it is the perfect balance of flavors. I personally recommend ordering the chicken khana set. This may sound a little over the top as an analogy, but the food here reminds me a bit of an orchestra. Each item is beautiful on its own but when you combine them, it’s like a symphony. Each layer adds to the last, which, in my opinion, is the beauty behind Thakali cuisine. Nothing on the plate is overpowering and everything feels like it was made fresh by family, making it one of the best Thakali in Lakeside.
Pokhara Thakali Kitchen
Last, but not least, is Pokhara Thakali Kitchen. This restaurant tends to lean a little spicier than the others, so if you have a low spice tolerance, it may not be the best for you. What I love about Pokhara Thakali Kitchen is that you get to try a lot of different things. I’d recommend the plain dal bhat (meaning you don’t get a meat/paneer). There is so much going on in this dal bhat that I don’t think adding another item is necessary. They also offer very different sides compared to Jetho and Maili, which shows how many varieties you can get of dal bhat. Finally, the décor here makes you feel like you’ve entered a lodge in the mountains, and it instantly transports you from Lakeside to Mustang.
I’m always looking for new places to try. If you know where to get the best Thakali in Lakeside, let me know!
My Top Picks for Hotels in Pokhara
Budget Hotel
Hotel Blossom
I love staying at Hotel Blossom in Pokhara. They have an adorable cafe with the best cheesecake. The owners are friendly. Most of all, I love the feel of the space. It’s very modern minimalist and is perfect if you’re on a budget!
Comfort Hotel
Hotel Middle Path
This is my go to hotel when I visit Pokhara. There’s an on site pool, large clean rooms, a beautiful garden, a spa, and very friendly staff. It’s located in the heart of Lakeside close to all my favorite restaurants. I can’t recommend it enough!
Luxury Hotel
The Pavilions Himalaya
If you want luxury, The Pavilions is the place to be. Visiting here feels like an escape into a private paradise. I felt so relaxed during out stay and can’t wait to go back. The hotel is sustainable without compromising luxury!
You might also like…
Leave a Reply