New Delhi: Perched high in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its snow-capped mountain peaks, peaceful monk culture, monasteries with great learning of history, and philosophy of Gross National Happiness. There will not be a single minute spent in Bhutan that you will not fall in love with.
Beneath the serene views and calmness lies the love for Bhutanese flavours. Bold, fiery, and full of character, the food in Bhutan is built around chillies and cheese, not just less but loads of it.
From steaming hot bowls of spicy stews, comforting dumplings, each bite captures the true meaning of Bhutan and its ingredients. Here are the top food items that you cannot miss on your next trip to Bhutan if you are someone who loves food or is excited to try new things.
Foods to try in Bhutan
1. Ema Datshi
Literally translating to cheese and chillies, Ema Datshi from Bhutan is their national dish and for all the right reasons. It’s a stew made from fresh and dried chillies simmered in creamy cheese sauce, often using yak or cow cheese. Spicy, soulful and embodies Bhutanese love for spicy and cheesy. Served with red rice, this is a dish found everywhere and is loved by all.
Where to try it: Babesa Village Restaurant in Thimphu offers one of the most authentic versions, served in traditional Bhutanese decor inside a century-old wooden house.
2. Shamu Datshi
Another variation from the iconic Datshi family, Shamu Datshi replaces the chillies with locally forged mushrooms cooked in cheese. Bhutan’s lush forests produce variety of wild mushrooms, making this dish a seasonal favourite among locals and vegetarians.
Where to try it: Ambient Café in Thimphu serves a refined, vegetarian-friendly version that balances local flavours with a modern presentation.
3. Phaksha Paa
A hearty stir-fry made from sliced pork belly cooked with dry red chillies, radishes and mountain herbs. It highlight’s Bhutan’s love for pork and chillies and is often eaten during winter for warmth and energy.
Where to try it: Try this at Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant in Thimphu, where the dish is slow-cooked over firewood for an authentic, smoky taste.
4. Hoentay
Buckwheat dumplings stuffed with spinach, cheese or minced meat – a speciality from Haa region. Unlike the typical wheat dumplings, they are nutty, and earthy flavours. Hoentay is popular and eaten especially during the Lomba festival.
Where to try it: Visit the Haa Valley during local festivals, or order them at traditional eateries in Paro for a taste of regional Bhutanese cuisine.
5. Jasha Maroo
A mildly spiced chicken stew cooked with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and chillies, often referred to as Bhutan’s answer to the ultimate comfort food. It’s lighter than most datshi-based dishes and great for home cooking.
Where to try it: The Zone Café in Thimphu serves a traveller-friendly version of Jasha Maroo, pairing it with red rice and a mountain view.
Skip the international menus and explore local restaurants for more authentic flavours. Each dish from Bhutan tells a story of high-altitude, farming and community living. Eating in Bhutan is more than just a culinary experience, it’s way of understanding how Bhutanese live with harmony and nature.