Thakali Maya — Restaurant in Pokhara

This was my first visit to this restaurant. I went there yesterday (Feb 13,'24) evening around 8pm. Downstairs level was empty and quiet when I arrived so I chose that for sitting quietly, recording my meal and enjoying the ambience of the street from a seat close to the window.

I had a great time with very attentive service. This was after the fact that I could sense a mildly disapproving look at my footwear from the young female hostess when I entered. (I was wearing slippers haha, diff story but it was necessity).

Anyhow, after a few mins of patiently explaining to me some of the items on the menu and the drinks menu, I ordered a Newari Roxy (clear spirit, local alcohol) and Masala papad (Indian appetizer).

Server brought warm water (thatho paani) first. Then the masala papad. After a few mins I asked for the Roxy and the server wasn't aware I had ordered this. This is a point where the hostess/initial order accepting needs some training into bringing drinks first.

The drink came with a side of ice and I enjoyed it very much, pacing myself through the meal. At NPR 275 the regular size was a very decent portion volume and lasted me the whole meal.

I also ordered Thakali khana with egg curry (unusual but helpful option). If was DELIGHTFUL. Yes the price seems a little higher, but the ghee serving was generous, servers made multiple rounds asking me for second helpings of almost all things (except papad, curd & main protein item all others were offered seconds for now extra charge). The rice was basmati style rice which seems slightly unusual for mountain region cuisine.

The gundruk as well as Mula ka acha, pyaaz ka achar were really good. Tharkari (vegetable ) was decent. Dal was good. Egg curry tasted just right. The egg skin seemed a bit rubbery but otherwise tasted very good.

Spice levels were very moderate so I'm surprised by other reviews saying it was spicy. Although I'm an Indian guy my spice tolerance is loooowww.

Anyhow the interior decor is also simply stunning and absolutely worth a closer look. From the metal sculptures to a very tasteful handwashing sink with fish mouth spouts, the other wall decorations (masks) and the wooden/terracotta bird figurines on shelves, all are amazing. Servers were very polite, prompt so I made a card payment and the tipped in cash on my own. They didn't seem the kind that asks for tips so again some reviews seem to be...

Generally a lovely, authentic atmosphere with friendly, attentive staff. I’ve had Thakali khana set three times there and can say it is good.

However, the last time I went, I felt the quality of the wasn’t there. Some of the items, such as the spinach, gundruk sadeko, mula ko aachar, and fried karela did not taste fresh at all. It was quite bad and I did not eat them. I was asked by the waiter (and also by the cashier) about the food/my experience and I told them that I was repeat customer and exactly the things that went wrong time, as I have done here. What shocked me though, was that no one apologised about it or offered to do better next time or give discount, nothing. Instead one of the waiters asked me about the service (which I said was good) and asked me to leave review on the...

Thakali Maya in Pokhara is the perfect place if you want to enjoy authentic Nepali flavors in a warm and welcoming setting. The highlight here is undoubtedly their Thakali Thali, and if you’re a non-vegetarian, the chicken thali is a must-try. The platter comes with neatly served rice, lentils, vegetables, pickles, and tender chicken curry, all cooked with traditional spices that taste homely yet rich. The balance of flavors makes it hearty and satisfying — exactly what a Thakali meal should be. The staff are attentive, the atmosphere is simple yet cozy, and the food portions are generous. If you’re in Pokhara and looking for an authentic Nepali dining experience, Thakali Maya is highly...