Are you ready for a flavor-packed adventure in the Little Tibet of Delhi? Majnu ka Tilla (MKT) has it all – a fusion of Tibetan culture and delectable cuisine that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
The narrow lanes of this Tibetan refugee colony are home to several hole-in-the-wall eateries that serve up an array of mouthwatering dishes. Located next to the North Campus, MKT is a popular spot among college students as well as tourists traveling to Himachal Pradesh. Check out my dedicated article, where I share everything you can do at Majnu ka Tilla.
In this blog post, I will share a list of 7 Tibetan dishes you can try to understand the cuisine better, especially for the first timers. And my favorite restaurant to grab some delicious desserts and coffee in Majnu ka Tilla.
Momos
Starting the list with a dish that holds a special place in every north Indian’s heart. Majnu ka Tilla is one of the best places to try a variety of momos. You will find several street vendors in every nook and corner offering a variety of momos, from steamed to fried ones. However, my favorite pick is Erma Datse Momo, a.k.a Bhutanese Curry Momos. The dish comprises steamed momos dipped in a creamy Bhutanese curry, offering a beautiful blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Where: Dolma’s Since 1984 (6/7 floor, Tsampa House Building)
Price for one: ₹400-600
Laphing
Laphing is a popular street food in Tibet and Nepal known for its spicy flavor and smooth texture. You will find multiple street vendors near the monastery selling Laphing.
The Dry Laphing is made of thick hand-pulled noodles mixed with various spices, minced meat, and crushed Wai Wai for the crunch (offered only by selected vendors). The look reminds me of a Gujarati dish called Khandvi.
The Laphing noodle soup, on the other hand, is made with thin hand-pulled noodles and dipped in a warm spicy broth. Both the dishes are delicious in their own way and are a must-try when visiting Majnu ka Tilla.
Where: Laphing stall next to the monastery
Price for one: ₹80-150
Shaphalay/ Shabalay
Shabalay is another popular Tibetan street food, a deep-fried meat pie served with a spicy dip. The crispy exterior gives way to a flavorful and juicy interior, making it a perfect appetizer to tantalize your taste buds. Do order a bottle of fruit beer to balance out the spicy flavors.
Where: Tee Dee Restaurant
Price for one: ₹150-300
Shapta
Shapta is a traditional Tibetan stir-fry dish featuring thinly sliced meat cooked with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices. The result is a savory and satisfying dish showcasing the rich flavors of Tibetan cuisine. I find the taste very similar to Chinese stir fry and goes well as an appetizer dish as well as a main course dish when accompanied with Tingmo.
Where: Dolma’s Since 1984 (6/7 floor, Tsampa House Building)
Price for one: ₹400-600
Tingmo
Tingmo is a traditional Tibetan steamed bread that complements well with spicy and savory dishes. The fluffy and airy texture of Tingmo makes it an ideal accompaniment to soak up the delicious flavors of the main courses.
Where: Any Tibetan restaurant
Price per piece: ₹50-100
Thukpa
No visit to Majnu ka Tilla is complete without having Thukpa, a wholesome Tibetan noodle soup. This soul-warming dish originated from the eastern parts of Tibet and combines hand-pulled noodles, assorted vegetables, and your choice of meat, all bathed in a fragrant and flavorful broth. It’s the perfect comfort food, especially on a chilly winter evening.
Where: Himalayan Restaurant
Price for one: ₹150-200
Thenthuk
Thenthuk is another wholesome comfort dish similar to Thukpa. It’s both delicious and healthy. The name means “pulled noodles” in Tibetan, and is made of wheat flour dough and has a flattened texture. To make your Thenthuk even more interesting, add momos to the soup. The combination of these two ingredients is incredible!
Where: Himalayan Restaurant
Price for one: ₹150-200
Cakes, coffee, and finger food at Ama Cafe
While Majnu ka Tilla is renowned for its Tibetan cuisine, Ama Cafe adds a twist with its modern menu and vibes. It is one of my favorite bakeries in Delhi. Their Tiramisu cake and freshly baked pizza are my favorite items on their menu. Additionally, they have a cute little roastery on the second floor that you can check out on your visit, and I highly recommend trying their coffee. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a date with yourself.
Where: Ama Cafe
Price for one: ₹250-300
How to Reach Majnu Ka Tilla?
Reaching this gastronomic haven is easy. Take the Delhi Metro and alight at Vidhan Sabha Metro Station on the Yellow Line. From there, it’s a short auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw ride to Majnu ka Tilla.
Travel cost: ₹100-150
Majnu ka Tilla is a treasure trove for food, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Tibetan flavors and culture. So, grab your appetite and embark on a delightful journey through the flavors of Majnu ka Tilla!
