Thanti Snacking Bar — Restaurant in Pokhara

Where do I begin… I had the good fortune of stumbling into Thanti on my last night in Pokhara, and the saying “save the best for last” has never rang more true. The owner Santosh, who was a chef in Japan before moving back to Nepal to open his own place, is not only an incredible chef— putting a Japanese gourmet spin on each thoughtful menu item, including Nepali classics (I had the gzoya-inspired momo’s and they were out of this world delicious)— but has infused love, care, exquisite taste, an intention into every single detail of this incredible gem of a place. He designed the tables and chairs in the Japanese style with a Nepali twist, decorated with simple warm and functional elements, curates the most amazing blues playlist to complete the most perfect ambiance, and so much more… I could not sing my praises loudly enough to do this place justice. I am beyond grateful I got to spend my last evening here, and I cannot wait to return on my next visit to Pokhara. I noticed this place so many times over the past few days because it’s just so beautiful and welcoming, but never could I have guessed what a hidden gem this place would be. Every detail is absolutely perfect. Santosh and his family are the kindest of hosts. He told me that Thanti means resting place, and that years ago in Nepal when people would travel across regions carrying goods great distances on their heads, there were communal houses (Thanti’s) where anyone could stay and take rest, cook a meal, and call home for the night before moving on— that is the concept the restaurant is based upon and it could not have been more aptly named. Thank you Santosh, from my heart, for having me for dinner and rest ❤️ you are an exceptional culinary talent and visionary in taste and hospitality, and should be extremely proud of your beautiful creation. My family has been in the restaurant business for over 40 years in New York City and this place surpasses the quality you’d find in places like New York, London, Paris, and is humbly located on a little side street in Pokhara. I hope everyone passing through Pokhara has the pleasure I did of experiencing Thanti—it is definitely worth looking for and coming to, though I wish upon others the beautiful surprise of stumbling upon it as I did and being absolutely blown away 🙏🏼 namaste &...

We took a wrong turn down an alley in Pokhara and ended up at our new favorite restaurant in all of Nepal. The restaurant was actually closed (or closing very shortly) when we arrived, but the owner was gracious and offered to serve us. The place is fashioned like a Paati (or in local parlance, Thanti) a public shelter built on the side of roads for weary travelers to rest. The restaurant has a traditional Nepali vibe but had an eclectic ice menu influenced by Japanese which can be seen in several fusion dishes available, of which we had two: the Japanese folded egg was a decadent fluffy egg with a delicious and dark salty dipping sauce. We also got the slow cooked pork belly in an owner-crafted Japanese marinade. It was exquisite. The best pork belly I have ever had. It melted into the crevices of my mouth, flavor saturating my tongue in a rich umami that cannot be deceived. There was also a small slaw to refresh the palate from the fatty mess of the cut prior to going back for subsequent bites. It was absolutely amazing. To drink we had an excellently crafted milk chia and I bought a single cigarette (something I believe every restaurant should offer for those of us who only smoke on special occasions). The owner came and sat with us and talked to use about his vision for the restaurant and he was so honest and humble and we saw how he and the other staff there were like family, sharing responsibilities and striving to serve their guests, just as if we had come off the road to a stay the night at a Thanti. The traditional Nepali style chairs and tables were designed by the owner, each unique. He also explained that each of the kerosene lamps lit at the tables had been gifted from local villages in his process of preparing to open. The amount of thought and effort put in this place is evident, and the result is a dining experience you are certain to enjoy. The mix of vegetarian and non vegetarian options, the street food, traditional Nepali dishes, and the Japanese fusion give guests ample options to choose from. Even the folk Nepali music being played added perfectly to the ambience. We are in Nepal for a year and when we return to Pokhara, we will definitely be returning to Thanti...

Nestled in a quaint corner of centerpoint inside Pokhara , Little Bites Snack Bar offers a charming escape for snack enthusiasts. This small establishment boasts a cozy atmosphere with its rustic decor and warm lighting. The menu features a variety of traditional snacks to a Japanese cuisine.

Hamro Santosh Dai who have made the taste of the momo touch the sky by adding some japanese style mastery .. I have know santosh dai way before he open Thanti and i never knew he worked as chef while he was staying in Japan .. But the momo and other snack i had made me realize he really is a best chef. Even japanese restaurants cannot give that savory on the momo guyss must try and must visit .I am looking forward to try every item on that menu while my next visit .

Though the space is small, its intimate setting of the traditional Thanti lights adds to the appeal, making it an ideal spot for a cozy and traditional snack break. If you’re looking for a place with genuine traditional snacks and a welcoming vibe, Santosh Dai’s Thanti snaking bar is a must go to place in Lakeside, Pokhara . He has a great taste in music tooo which added more...