14:00: Meet the Guide & Introduction
Your guide will greet you warmly at a central meeting spot before you leave on your culinary adventure. They will offer you an overview of the tour and Kathmandu’s thriving food scene. The guide will also share all the essential information about the varied culinary traditions. A summary of the tour schedule, including the different specialties you will try along the way, will also be given to you. Additionally, safety advice and suggestions on how to enjoy a street food tour in Kathmandu will be given to you.
14:15: Taste Newari Delights: Chhoila & Bara
During the tour, you will explore around the local restaurants around Kathmandu Durbar Square and Asan market. Your first stop will be at a traditional Newari eatery, where you will eat Chhoila. It is a flavorful, spicy grilled buffalo meat dish served with chiura (beaten rice). The other dish you will enjoy here is Bara. It is a savory pancake made from black lentils. Bara is often served plain or topped with egg or minced meat. These two dishes showcase the Newari love for bold flavors. As you enjoy these Newari delights, your guide will provide a brief description of the dishes.
14:45: Savor Smoky Sekuwa (Grilled Meat Skewers)
At your next stop, you will try Sekuwa, one of Nepal’s most popular grilled meat dishes. This dish consists of skewered meat (chicken, mutton, or buffalo) marinated in a rich blend of Himalayan spices and grilled over an open charcoal fire. The smoky flavors, juicy meat, and spicy seasoning will make your taste buds dance. It is truly an iconic street food that you must try at least once. Served with a side of achar (spicy pickles) and beaten rice, Sekuwa is a must-try for meat lovers.
15:25: Indulge in the Sweetness of Yomari
A visit to a hidden Newari sweet shop will introduce you to Yomari. It is a traditional steamed rice flour dumpling stuffed with sesame seeds and chaku (sweet molasses-like jaggery) or khuwa (milk solids). This dish has cultural significance for Newari people. It is mainly consumed during the Yomari Punhi festival. The dumplings’ warm, sweet filling melts in your mouth, and they have a soft, chewy texture. Some stores might even provide a more contemporary twist with chocolate or coconut fillings.
16:00: Experience the Best Momo in Kathmandu
Momo, Nepal’s favorite dumpling, is a must-try on any food tour. At this stop, you will visit a famous local momo shop where you can taste different varieties, including steamed momo, fried momo, and jhol momo (served in a spiced broth). Each variety has a different taste experience. Dip into the spicy chutneys and other sauces to further enhance the taste. The filling options range from minced buffalo or chicken to vegetables and cheese. Similarly, you can also watch the preparation process of momo and even try making one yourself.
16:45: Street Snacks: Samosa & Nepalese Lassi
For a crunchy and refreshing experience, you will stop for a samosa. The deep-fried pastry is filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes with other vegetables. Although it is also a popular Indian snack, the Nepalese version is totally different than that. The samosa is generally served with tangy tamarind chutney. This crispy snack is a local favorite and is a midday treat. Alongside, you will try Nepalese Lassi, a yogurt-based drink blended with honey, cardamom, or seasonal fruits. The refreshing drink perfectly complements samosa.
17:20: Nepali Tea & Tour Wrap-Up
Your culinary journey will conclude with a cup of Nepali milk tea (chiya) at a traditional tea shop. Tea leaves are boiled with milk, sugar, and a blend of flavorings like ginger and cardamom is used to make this tea. While having tea, you can communicate with other fellow trekkers about some of your favorite dishes and offer suggestions for additional local eateries in Kathmandu. You can reflect on your day while sipping the hot tea.
18:00: End of the Tour
Your food tour will end at the starting location or a convenient drop-off point. Feel free to ask for any bonus tips with your guide. You will also have a list of places to revisit for more delicious experiences. Whether you are a food enthusiast or exploring local flavors, the tour will leave your taste bud delighted. If you want to explore more, you can freely extend the tour.