Asian cuisine has always been my all-time favorite. Being born and raised in Kathmandu, I’ve explored some amazing and popular places serving (Japanese, Korean, Tibetan and Chinese) foods. Here are my top picks in Kathmandu for the best East Asian cuisines.
- Kungfu Noodles
- Hankook Sarang
- Hao Pin
- Kimchi Sarang
- New Chong Qing Wei Restaurant
- Cafe Hessed
- 2Bhai Kimbap
- Noodles shop Ktm
- Lotus Restaurant & Coffee Gallery
- Little Tibet
- KungFu Noodles
If you’re someone who loves noodles as much I do, then KungFu Noodles is a place you can’t miss. I’m a frequent visitor here, and honestly it has become one of my absolute favorite noodle spots in the city.
What I love most is the variety they offer. Whether you’re in the mood for veg, non-veg, or warm, comforting soupy noodles, they have something for everyone. Talking about my personal favorites: No.13 and No.14. These two are my go-to orders every single time.
It is located at Thamel. It is a perfect spot whether you’re exploring the area. You can also relax here if you’re just looking for a cozy place to enjoy a comforting bowl of noodles.
2. Hankook Sarang
When in doubt, go to Hankook Sarang. I mean, if you have doubts about where to have the best Korean dishes, then this place is the answer. Don’t visit here if you have doubts about your life in general. Anyway, Hankook Sarang offers a variety of classic Korean dishes that are true to Korean cuisine.
As someone who enjoys exploring Asian cuisine, I find myself going back to Hankook Sarang. The food is comforting, the portions are satisfying, and the overall experience feels worth it every time. It is located at Tangal (Naxal) and Thamel (Jyatha) with its traditional Korean architecture and welcoming ambiance.
3. Hao Pin
If you’re someone who enjoys Chinese cuisine like, then Hao Pin is one of the place in Kathmandu worth trying. Located at Narayanchaur, Naxal and Sanepa, Lalitpur, Hao Pin has become a popular spot for authentic Chinese-style dishes. I usually visit this place with my friends to enjoy their hot-pot, especially during chilly weather. It is a great place to visit with family, dates, and even casual solo food date.
4. Kimchi Sarang
When I posted about Kimchi Sarang on my TikTok, people were upset about the post. Not because of the post itself, but because they wanted to gate-keep this amazing place. From the reaction alone, you have probably guess that it’s one of the most locally loved spots.
Korean cuisine are very expensive around Kathmandu. So, if you are looking for an affordable and super tasty Korean dishes, Kimchi sarang is the answer. For instance, the whole Samgyeopsal was only Rs.900, which is honestly quiet affordable for the portion size. It is located at Phoolbari Complex, Boudha.
5. New Chong Qing Wei Restaurant
New Chong Qing Wei Restaurant is a well-known Chinese restaurant in Kathmandu. Any Chinese cuisine lover will surely know this place. Everything on the menu tastes amazing, but if I has to pick my personal favorites, I would definitely choose the double-cooked pork and the dry-fried mushroom. I can tell this is a good Chinese restaurant because every time I visit, I see Chinese people dining and enjoying the food.
6. Cafe Hessed
Cafe Hessed is a Korean restaurant in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur that has been running since more than a decade. It’s run by a sweet Korean family. If you ask me, this place has the best gimbap and I am not exagerrating. Also they sell yummy muffins. Add that in the list as well.
It is a good spot for casual hangouts and quiet Gimbap dates. The ambiance is warm and comfortable. But sometimes you might not get a seat because the place is quite popular.
7. 2Bhai Kimbap
My another favorite spot for Korean food is 2Bhai Kimbap. It has brances in both Budhanilkantha and Jhamsikhel. It is great place if you’re craving comforting Korean dishes. The restaurant serves variety of options like Kimbap, ramen, tteokbokki, kimchi fried rice, sotak, and more. My personal favorite here is the tteokboki, it is spot, spicy, sweet and full of flavor. The place has casual and friendly vibe, which makes it deal for hanging out with friends who enjoy Korean cuisine.
8. Noodles shop Ktm
If you are looking for authentic Japanese noodles, then you should visit Noodles Shop Ktm. The restaurant is known for its handmande and delicious noodles. They serve a variety of Japanese noodle dishes, but my personal favorite is the Hokkaido-style miso ramen. It is rich, comforting, and perfect for noodle lovers. The cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors make this place a must-visit spot in Kathmandu.
9. Lotus Restaurant & Coffee Gallery
Another Japanese food spot that my followers in my Tik-Tok wanted to gate-keep is Lotus Restaurant & Coffee Gallery. Located in Thamel, this place is a must-visit if you want to experience authentic Japanese food in Kathmandu. They serve a variety of comforting Japanese dishes, and my personal favorite is the curry rice. It’s flavorful, comforting, and something I always look forward to eating whenever I visit.
10. Little Tibet
Last but not least, I want to mention my all-time favorite, Little Tibet. Located in Thamel, this place serves authentic Tibetan food that always keeps me coming back. I especially love their tingmo, aaloo sip sip, and double-fried pork. The food is flavorful, comforting, and perfect if you want to experience authentic Tibetan cuisine in Kathmandu.
Conclusion
So these are my top 10 asian cuisine restaurants around the Kathmandu Valley. If you are looking for spicy and heartwarming Asian dishes, then these are the main go-to. Hope you enjoy exploring different restaurants here in Kathmandu. If you want, you can also read another article similar to this.