Last year I wrote about Kathmandu in 3 Days. I was back last month for a quick trip and found a few new places to add to your list.
I did not do much sightseeing in Kathmandu this time as I saw most of the local sights. I opted for a two-day trip to Bandipur, 150 km from Kathmandu. You can read more about it in my Adventures of The Village Bandipur and Ramkot.
As always, I stopped at the Roadhouse Cafe because I love their wood-fired Margherita pizza and the Third Eye with the best paneer and naan bread. So both of the restaurants stay on the list of where to go.
So what is new?
My new friend Niti, supplier and founder of Dhuku (more about this later) took me on a day trip to see the stoneware-making process. For a late lunch, we went to Kyampa The Social Hub in Lalitpur. As they say “A Green Oasis in an urban space”, it has nice outdoor and indoor seating where you can enjoy the beer garden, the restaurant, and even some shopping. We had some beer, various food including momos, wraps, and now my favourite item on the menu, and the first time I have had it, fried corn. WOW! I do recommend you try the fried corn – it is delicious.
What was next?
Penthouse Rooftop and Bar is exquisitely beautiful, but they also have excellent cocktails mixed by expert mixologists. The bar counter lights up in the most beautiful purple. It has the most elegant gold ceiling and hanging pendant lights. It is one of the most beautiful bar areas I have seen in a very long time.
You have to try The Penthouse cocktail – their signature cocktail and my favourite on the menu. All are made fresh and from locally sourced ingredients. The Penthouse consists of Laligurans infused vodka and syrup, passion fruit, sugar, and lime. Laligurans is also the national flower of Nepal. The Blue Colada was nice and refreshing – coconut and pineapple infused rum with Malibu, coconut cream, pineapple, blue curacao, and lime. The Penthouse has an extensive wine list with good wines to choose from.
I love how they describe their cocktails “We believe that every cocktail tells a story. From classic favourites to signature creations, every sip is a celebration of the vibrant culture and rich history that defines our region.” I agree with this statement.
In Lazimpat you will find Vino Bistro with a great selection of wine from across the world with French-type food and a lovely ambiance. This is a real hidden gem and worth a visit. Opt for sitting outside if you have good evening weather. Vino Bistro is located in Blue Note, Kumari Mai Marg (sorry, no website to share with you). I did not take photos. Photos are from Magical Nepal, TripAdvisor and Facebook.
Last but not least, the more on the healthy side, you have to try 4Stories in the Thamel area. Downstairs consists of table seating and upstairs you can sit on small tables with pillows. I opted for the 2nd floor and had the best green smoothie named Natura Greenie which consisted of avocado, spinach, apple, and chia seeds. At first, I was very skeptical about trying it due to the thought that the avocado might be overwhelming, but it was delicious. I cannot honestly exactly pinpoint which ingredient stood out the most. Remember to take off your shoes and enjoy the experience.
Go on and give it all a try. I know you want to!
Travel Love
Chrisyy