Food · Kirtipur
Lunch at Newa Lahana, run by Kirtipur's women
A long Newar lunch at a restaurant run by a cooperative of Kirtipur women, in a traditional brick house in the old town. Samay baji, bara, chatamari, kwati, aloo tama and seasonal dishes, with juju dhau to finish.
Newa Lahana was started by local Newar women to keep Kirtipur's home cooking alive and to earn an income in their own town. It is housed in a traditional building, with simple dining rooms and a terrace, and is busy with Kathmandu families at weekends. Kitchen staff are local women, many from farming families.
We order a spread to share: samay baji with beaten rice, chhoyla, black soybeans and egg; bara made from black lentils; chatamari rice crepes; kwati soup of sprouted beans; aloo tama, a sour potato and bamboo-shoot curry; and a seasonal green. Vegetarian versions of most dishes are available.
To finish, juju dhau and a cup of milk tea, or for those who want it, a small glass of aila or thwon. We talk about what each dish means in Newar life: which are eaten at feasts, which at death rituals, which only in winter. It is one of the best value Newar meals in the valley.
Good for
Questions
What is Newa Lahana in Kirtipur?
Newa Lahana is a Newar restaurant in Kirtipur's old town run by a cooperative of local women. It serves traditional dishes such as samay baji, bara, chatamari and kwati at local prices. Profits support the women and their community. It is popular with Nepali families, especially at weekends.
Is Newa Lahana good for vegetarians?
Yes. Many dishes come in vegetarian versions, including bara, chatamari, kwati, aloo tama, beaten rice and pickles. Ask staff or your guide to order without meat. Some soups use meat stock, so mention it when ordering. Juju dhau makes a good vegetarian dessert.
How much does a meal at Newa Lahana cost?
A generous Newar spread for two costs roughly NPR 1,000 to 2,000, depending on what you order and drink, which is good value compared with tourist restaurants. Prices change, so treat this as a guide. Carry cash in rupees.
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