Best Places To Eat In Lhasa, Tibet

Discovering the Flavors of Lhasa: A Guide to Street Food and Best Eats

Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, is a culinary delight that offers a unique blend of traditional Tibetan cuisine, Chinese flavors, and Nepalese influences. While there are many upscale restaurants in Lhasa, the real charm lies in its street food scene, which serves up authentic and mouth-watering dishes at affordable prices. Here’s your guide to the best places to eat in Lhasa, with a focus on popular street food options:

Street Food Heaven: Barkhor Street

The iconic Barkhor Street is the epicenter of Lhasa’s street food scene. This bustling thoroughfare surrounds the Jokhang Temple and offers an array of local delicacies. Be sure to try:

  • Momo: Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served steaming hot and accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce.
  • Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup made with vegetables, meat (if desired), and a flavorful broth.
  • Lhasa Kebabs: Sizzling skewers of marinated meat (usually beef or yak) grilled to perfection.

Other Street Food Hotspots

  • Nyangre East Road: This street is lined with food stalls serving:
    • Tsampa: Roasted barley flour pancakes, often served with butter tea.
    • Gyuma: Tibetan sausages made from meat and spices.
  • Tromsikhang Market: A local market offering a variety of street food options, including momos, thukpa, and fresh fruit.

Restaurant Recommendations

For those who prefer to dine in a more traditional setting, here are some highly-recommended restaurants:

  • Kalsang Restaurant: Serves authentic Tibetan dishes like thukpa, momos, and shapta (a type of Tibetan pancake).
  • Tashi Delek Restaurant: Offers a range of Tibetan and Chinese dishes, including the popular Lhasa Kebabs.
  • Snowland Restaurant: A cozy spot serving traditional Tibetan tea and snacks, as well as Western-style coffee.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: While many vendors speak some English, it’s still helpful to learn basic Tibetan phrases like “tashi delek” (hello) and “zhug” (thank you).
  • Currency: The Chinese yuan is widely accepted in Lhasa. You can also exchange currency at local banks or use ATMs.
  • Hygiene: Always choose street food stalls with high turnover rates and follow proper hygiene practices to avoid any health issues.
  • Respect Local Customs: When eating, it’s customary to use your right hand and not finish a meal completely (leave a small amount of food on the plate).

Embark on a culinary adventure in Lhasa, where the rich flavors of Tibetan cuisine blend with the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Bon appétit!