Adding to Thamel’s reputation as a premier tourist destination, a new Nepali dining experience, The Golden Thali, has officially opened within the Thamel Eco Resort premises. Established with the vision of promoting Nepal’s diverse culinary heritage, the restaurant is the brainchild of seasoned tourism entrepreneurs Rajan Simkhada of Earthbound Expeditions and Mohan Lamsal of Makalu Adventure, in collaboration with the culinary experts at Chef Nepal.
Simkhada and Lamsal shared that the concept centers around introducing the authentic flavors of Nepal’s mid-hill regions while representing the country’s diverse gastronomic culture. “The foundation of Nepali cuisine lies in its traditional pickles. From stone-ground chutneys to fermented and freshly cooked pickles, we’ve brought these authentic flavors to life in The Golden Thali,” said Simkhada.
The Golden Thali offers an array of dishes that cater to diverse palates. The menu includes 15 carefully curated items, ranging from traditional daals made of lentils like black gram, mung beans, kidney beans, and mixed legumes to various staple options like maize, wheat, millet, and buckwheat dhido (traditional Nepali porridge).
For rice enthusiasts, the menu features a choice between Marsi, Taichin, Basmati, and Jeera Masino varieties, showcasing the richness of Nepali agricultural products. Lamsal states, “Each dish is prepared using freshly ground spices, ensuring a true Nepali taste. Guests can select from vegetarian or meat-based thalis, with vegetarian meals priced at NPR 550 and meat-inclusive thalis offered for an additional charge.”

With a capacity to serve over 100 guests, The Golden Thali operates daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., providing an immersive culinary experience. “We aim to make this a hub where visitors can enjoy the authentic Nepali dining experience and take home unforgettable memories of Nepal’s rich culinary culture,” said Anu Dhakal, CEO of The Golden Thali.
The restaurant’s innovative approach also includes promoting traditional cooking methods, such as using a stone grinder (silauto) to enhance the flavors of the spices and pickles. This unique preparation process ensures that diners experience the essence of Nepali home-style cooking.
As Thamel continues to expand its offerings to attract tourists, The Golden Thali emerges as a noteworthy addition, blending tradition with hospitality. The restaurant seeks to preserve and promote Nepali culinary traditions and aims to redefine dining for tourists by providing a taste of authentic Nepali culture.
With its grand opening, The Golden Thali is poised to become a significant landmark in Thamel, enhancing the area’s appeal as a hub for cultural and culinary tourism.