Best Non-Veg Restaurants in Bhutan

While Bhutan is often associated with calm monasteries and vegetarian meals, it also has plenty to offer for non-veg food lovers. Whether you're looking for spicy chicken curry, beef momos, or grilled river trout, you'll find solid options in every major town.

Here's a regional guide to the best non-veg restaurants in Bhutan, including both local favorites and Indian-inspired spots.

Phuentsholing - Where Bhutan Meets Bengal

As the main border entry for Indian tourists, Phuentsholing has a wide mix of Indian and Bhutanese non-veg cuisine.

Top Picks:

• Zen Restaurant - Serves Indian-style chicken curry, fish fry, and mutton thali
• Kizom Café and Restaurant - Mixed menu with Bhutanese chicken, pork, and Tibetan-style soups
• Biryani House - For biryani lovers, with chicken and mutton options
• Tashi Restaurant - Casual place with spicy curries and Bhutanese pork dishes

Tip: Many restaurants serve both Indian and Bhutanese styles, so ask your server for their specialty.

Thimphu - Bhutan’s Capital Food Scene

Thimphu has the most variety when it comes to dining. You'll find everything from barbecue-style meats to Tibetan soups and pan-Asian cuisine.

Top Picks:

• Zombala 1 and 2 - Known for their pork and beef momos, thukpa, and chili chicken
• Ambient Café (non-veg options available) - Light meat dishes in a relaxed setting
• Momo Corner - Great for chicken and pork momos with spicy sauces
• Chh’a Bistro & Bar - A bit upscale, with roasted meats and continental meat dishes
• Aie’s Restaurant - Local place for Bhutanese chicken curry and fish items

Punakha - Flavor in the Valley

Though smaller than Thimphu and Paro, Punakha has some great non-veg dishes served in tranquil riverside settings.

Top Picks:

• Hotel Lobesa Restaurant - Bhutanese pork and fish dishes with a view
• Kingaling Restaurant - Classic Bhutanese pork curry and chicken fried rice
• Bukhari at Uma Punakha (Luxury) - Fine dining with seasonal non-veg Bhutanese and continental fusion
• Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria - Basic but hearty meat options after temple visits

Try the local fried river trout if it's in season.

Paro - Peaceful Town, Flavorful Meals

Paro’s food scene is cozy, with an emphasis on local Bhutanese ingredients and simple but tasty meat dishes.

Top Picks:

• Sonam Trophel Restaurant - Pork and beef curry, chili chicken, and local set meals
• Park 76 Café and Restaurant - Wide menu including meat pizzas, grilled chicken, and Indian non-veg
• My Kind of Place - Indian-run café with tasty chicken masala and mutton dishes
• Dagmar Restaurant - Traditional Bhutanese dishes, including beef with red rice and spicy sides
• Yue-Ling Restaurant (at Tenzinling Hotel) - Great place to try Bhutanese-style chicken stew and mushroom-meat blends

What Non-Veg Dishes to Try in Bhutan

• Pork and beef curry - Often cooked with chili, cheese, and local spices
• Chicken ema datshi - A spicy take on Bhutan’s famous cheese-and-chili dish
• Fried river trout - Fresh and flaky, often served with red rice
• Momos (dumplings) - Usually filled with pork, chicken, or beef
• Phaksha paa - Pork cooked with radish and dried chilies

A Note on Meat in Bhutan

• Meat is imported from India due to Bhutan’s Buddhist values
• Most restaurants source fresh and clean meat, but availability may vary during religious festivals
• Ask your guide or hotel in advance if you prefer specific non-veg meals

Eat Local, Eat Warm

Whether you're craving something spicy, meaty, or comforting after a day of hiking, Bhutan has just the right non-veg options to satisfy your appetite. The key is to keep your mind open, try local twists, and enjoy the pace of a place that cooks with care.