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.
