Thamel is like Disneyland for hippies. Incense, hash, body art, daggy baggy clothes, vegan food, yoga classes, mountain gear, bejewelled bits ‘n’ bobs, more hash…it sells everything a travelling hobo could possibly desire in a teeny-tiny radius.
Indeed, it’s easy to lose yourself to Thamel and call the place Kathmandu. A labyrinth of narrow paths and miniature retailers, it’s gritty, weathered and blanketed by old-world charm. There are stores within stores – sideways, around the corner, down the back and six stories skyward – all begging for your tourist dollar.
Before you know it, you’re stuck in a blissful holiday routine: sleep, shop, eat, repeat. While your day-to-day business stays pretty much the same, the places you visit will undoubtedly change. There are so many wonderful restaurants to choose from, it’s possible to enjoy every lunch, dinner and snack session in a different hideaway. During my stay in Thamel, I did exactly that. Here are my favourite food finds; they won’t disappoint.
BEST VEGETARIAN
Where to go: OR2K, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: Apart from the huge, flavour-packed meals, OR2K really draws a crowd thanks to its unique ambience. Offering a social yet relaxed setting, it’s a place where you can slip off your shoes, chill out on giant pillows, share stories with other travellers and soak up the uber cool vibe.
What to try: The falafel if you’re on your own, or the OR2K Combo Platter between two. Both are delicious and great value.
Tasty tip: The meals are massive, so consider buying a light option or sharing a starter and a main between two people, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
BEST SWEET TREATS
Where to go: Third Eye Bakery & Espresso Bar, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: Their desserts are prettiest, most decadent treats in town. Unlike a lot of other bakeries in the area, which offer beige, beige and more beige, Third Eye presents an exciting range of vibrant, eclectic sweets.
What to try: Whatever takes your fancy. Everything is delicious.
Tasty tip: They sell a lot of their stock at half price towards the end of the day (just when dessert cravings kick in).
BEST SANDWICHES
Where to go: Gourmet Bakery & Coffee Shop, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: The sandwiches are cheap, chunky and filled with saucy goodness.
What to try: Any of the large sandwiches. The bread is soft, light and moreishly good.
Tasty tip: If you’re not big on sauce or dressings, mention it to the staff before they start creating your carb feast. Otherwise, you’re in for a soggy sanga.
BEST NEPALESE FOOD
Where to go: Mahabir’s Centre for Nepal Connection, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: If you’re not from this part of the world, the local food menu is a wild guessing game – which is kind of exciting. Luckily, the staff are eager to talk you through the dishes and traditional techniques for eating them.
What to try: The Khaja Set. When in Nepal, try the local food…even if it sounds strange.
Tasty tip: Eat with your fingers if you order the Khaja Set. It’s a whole lot more fun, plus it’s how things are done.
Where to go: La Bella Café, Chaksibari Marg Street
Why it’s awesome: It has a classy Italian vibe, which offers the perfect escape from the commercial, chaotic streets of Thamel.
What to try: The momos are divine. La Bella Cafe is the best place to gorge on Nepal’s most popular dish. Order the lemonade to go with your meal. It’s zingy, refreshing and perfectly sweet.
Tasty tip: Travel up to the second floor and sit as close to the street as you can. It’s a fantastic vantage point for people-watching.
BEST HEALTHY STUFF
Where to go: Green Organic Cafe, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: The food is mind-blowing, healthy and creative. The “GOC” is hands down my favourite restaurant in Thamel.
What to try: You MUST try their signature dish, the Everest Victory Salad. The homemade noodles are delightful and the dressing is special by name and nature.
Tasty tip: Don’t get frustrated when the internet doesn’t seem to work. Take a pack of cards, read a book or – better yet – enjoy your meal!
BEST TEA & COFFEE
Where to go: Himalayan Java Coffee, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: Because it’s more refined and polished than many of the other rough ‘n’ tough coffee shops in the area. Plus, the staff go they extra mile. My chia tea came with crema on top. I’d never seen that before. Yum!
What to try: Your beverage of choice…plus a cookie.
Tasty tip: Bring your laptop. This funky-fresh hideaway is a perfect spot to host small meetings or get some travel research and work done.
BEST CHEAP EATS
Where to go: Green Valley Café & Restaurant, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: The staff are chatty, the locals love it, the food is flavoursome and your budget will thank you for it.
What to try: The momos and curries.
Tasty tip: The portions are as modest as the prices, so why not treat yourself to an entree?
BEST STREET FOOD
Where to go: A roving food vendor, most likely on the corner of Thamel Marg & Leknath Marg
Why it’s awesome: It’s a cheap, fast thrill … for your tastebuds.
What to try: The rice bubble cone thing. It looks like a kid’s wild food concoction, especially when a dozen mystery ingredients get mixed with it. But, it’ll kick start a rockin’ party in your mouth.
Tasty tip: If you can’t handle the heat, ask for the mild version.
Sophee Smiles 