Bhutanese cuisine is bold, comforting, and deeply rooted in the Himalayan lifestyle. It revolves around red rice, fiery chilies, and cheese, using fresh, locally grown ingredients that warm the body in the mountain climate.

Whether you love spicy food or prefer milder flavors, Bhutan offers a delightful mix of authentic local dishes, Indian comfort food, and traditional drinks.

Must-Try Bhutanese Dishes

1. Ema Datshi – Bhutan’s National Dish A fiery stew made with green or red chilies and melted cheese (yak or cow). It is spicy, rich, and served with red rice in almost every meal. Vegetarian by default

2. Kewa Datshi – Potato & Cheese Stew A milder and gentler version of Ema Datshi made with sliced potatoes, cheese, and sometimes onions. Perfect for first-time visitors.

3. Shamu Datshi – Mushroom & Cheese A creamy, earthy dish prepared with seasonal mushrooms. Especially delicious in regions like Bumthang.

4. Phaksha Paa – Pork with Chilies & Radish Dried pork cooked with radish, ginger, and plenty of chilies. A hearty, flavorful favorite among locals.

5. Jasha Maru – Spicy Chicken Stew Minced chicken cooked with garlic, ginger, onions, and chilies. Light yet packed with flavor.

6. Momos – Bhutanese Dumplings Steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork, chicken, beef, cheese, or vegetables. Best enjoyed hot with spicy ezay (chili sauce).

Bhutanese Staples

• Red Rice – Nutty and nutritious, served with almost every meal
• Ezay – Fiery Bhutanese chili paste (every restaurant has its own version)
• Buckwheat dishes – Popular in Bumthang and Haa Valley

Drinks You Should Try in Bhutan

• Suja (Butter Tea) – Salty tea churned with yak butter. Warming and traditional.
• Ara – Local homemade rice wine, often served warm during festivals or farm stays.
• Local Beers & Whisky – Try Druk 11000, Red Panda Beer, and K5 Whisky.

Vegetarian & Indian Food Options

Most restaurants in Paro, Thimphu, and Phuentsholing serve excellent Indian vegetarian food including dal, chapati, paneer, and rice. Bhutanese datshi dishes are naturally vegetarian, and mild/Jain options are available on request.

Food Travel Tips

• Bhutanese food is generally spicy — inform your guide or restaurant if you want it mild.
• Many tour packages include breakfast and dinner.
• Try a traditional meal at a local farmhouse for an authentic experience.
• Drink bottled or filtered water.

At Allways Tours and Travels, we make sure your Bhutan tour includes the best local food experiences so you can truly taste the flavors of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Food in Bhutan is more than just eating — it’s about sharing, warmth, and connection with the culture. Eat slowly, enjoy every bite, and take home beautiful food memories.