While most people might complain about the lack of trees and the amount of dust flying around Kathmandu, one of the things I find amazing is how there are still beautiful garden cafes in the capital city. Having spent a lot of time in Manhattan, I can’t imagine a small garden right smack in the middle of New York. But, in Kathmandu it’s entirely possible. If you’re looking for a mini escape, I highly recommend checking out one of my top 3 picks for the best cafés in Kathmandu with a garden. These are the places I frequent the most because they are quiet, full of greenery, and have fantastic food. I love being in the center of a hustling bustling city while feeling like I’ve left it entirely. Check out my top picks…
Salon de Kathmandu
Salon de Kathmandu is located on a quiet side street in Lazimpat. Entering this quaint and charming restaurant feels more like you’re visiting a friend’s home rather than a restaurant. The restaurant is on the ground floor and spreads out into the garden which is vast and full of beautiful rose bushes. There’s a covered section which allows you some shade on a hot sunny day or cover from the rain during monsoon. The menu consists of café classics like salads, soups, sandwiches, and rice bowls with a Korean flare making them unique in the café scene. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or a full meal, this is the perfect place to meet friends on a nice day.
Personal Favorites:
- Ricotta Cheese Salad
- Iced Homemade Chai Tea Latte
Price: Food items range between 300 – 700 rupees ($3.00 – $7.00 USD)
Hours: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
Location: Lazimpat, Kathmandu
Website: https://www.facebook.com/salonmaisonktm
Café Soma
Café Soma, which is located in the heart of Baluwatar, is the epitome of a café with a small menu featuring a selection of sandwiches, salads, soups, and burgers along with a brunch menu as well as pastries. Their ingredients are fresh and their sandwiches reflect a traditional European style. I typically don’t like sandwiches in Kathmandu, but Café Soma knows how to make a great sandwich. While the food is great, it’s the outdoor seating that really wins me over. They even have a very large covered area which makes it an equally refreshing escape during monsoon season. You can enjoy being outdoors without the fear of a sudden rainstorm ruining your plans. It’s spacious outdoor garden is honestly the perfect place to get a breath of fresh air in the chaotic city of Kathmandu.
Personal Favorites:
- Italian Mozzarella, Basil & Roasted Tomato Sandwich
- Beetroot, Feta Cheese & Walnut Salad
- Aubergine Salad
Price: Food items range between 300 – 700 rupees ($3.00 – $7.00 USD)
Hours: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
Location: Baluwatar, Kathmandu
Website: https://www.facebook.com/cafesoma/
Utpala Cafe
Utpala Cafe is a vegetarian restaurant located near Boudhanath Stupa and run by the KaNying Monastery. This outdoor cafe is famous for it’s reasonably priced buffets and it’s weekly farmers markets. It’s located away from the hustle and bustle of the main roads giving it a relaxing ambience. Utpala Cafe was actually mentioned to me by several friends and it lived up to the hype. We had a fantastic breakfast there for a reasonable price and of course my favorite part was the adorable dogs that live there and are super sweet. This cafe is fantastic for hanging out with friends, and it is a more budget friendly option than the other cafes on this list.
Personal Favorites:
- American Breakfast
Price: Food items range between 100 – 300 rupees ($1.00 – $3.00 USD)
Hours: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Location: Boudha, Kathmandu
Avocado Cafe
Avocado Cafe is a great spot to grab a light bite to eat with a beautiful open seating area that makes you feel like you’re picnicking in the park. The staff is really friendly here and the food is fresh. They have a great assortment of cafe dishes like salads and wraps. And as the name suggests, avocado is a common ingredient in many of the dishes. Overall, this is the perfect place to catch up with friends or have a laid back lunch. They also offer live music some evenings for entertainment!
Personal Favorites:
- Bruschetta
- Nachos
- Most of their Wraps & Salads
Price: Food items range between 200-600 rupees ($2.00 – $6.00 USD)
Hours: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
Location: Baluwatar, Kathmandu
Website: https://www.facebook.com/avocadocafe5555/
Pauline’s Garden
Pauline’s Garden, which is tucked away on a tiny side street in Baluwatar, has a lovely outdoor space with plenty of seating, yet it still has a private feel. Rather than sitting in a restaurant, it feels more like you’re on a mini vacation and having brunch in front of a quaint bed and breakfast. The food is fresh and delicious and has a French flare, but it is a little more on the high end for Kathmandu with the average dish costing around 600 rupees. Nevertheless, it’s a great place for a romantic date night or a casual Saturday brunch with friends.
Personal Favorites:
- Avocado & Chicken Salad
Price: Food items range between 250 – 1200 rupees ($2.50 – $12.00 USD)
Hours: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
Location: Baluwatar, Kathmandu
Website: https://www.facebook.com/paulinesgarden
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Michelle Della Giovanna
Writer at Full Time Explorer
I’m just your average New Yorker who quit her job in the fashion industry to explore the world. Come find out what it’s like to trade in five-inch heels for squat toilets.
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